North Carolina · District Court — Family Division
North Carolina family court, without the confusion.
North Carolina District Court handles absolute divorce, custody, child support, equitable distribution, alimony, and domestic violence protective orders.
We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.
Where do you need help?
Coming soon
Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage
Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.
Coming soon
Child Custody / Parenting Time
Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.
Coming soon
Modify Custody or Parenting Time
Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.
Coming soon
Child Support
Establish or modify a child support order.
Coming soon
Establish Paternity
Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.
Coming soon
Protective Order
Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.
Coming soon
Relocation (Moving with Children)
Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.
Coming soon
Enforce a Court Order
Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.
Coming soon
Name Change
Change your name or your child's name through the court.
Coming soon
Spousal Support / Alimony
Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.
What North Carolina requires — before you file
1
6-month residency. You or your spouse must have lived in North Carolina for at least 6 months before filing for absolute divorce.
2
1-year separation required. North Carolina requires you and your spouse to have lived apart for at least 1 year before filing for absolute divorce.
3
Equitable distribution is separate. Property division (equitable distribution) and alimony must be filed as separate claims — they don't automatically happen with divorce.
4
DVPO process. A Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO) is a separate proceeding from divorce. Ex parte orders can be issued the same day you file.
North Carolina requires a 1-year separation before absolute divorce — one of the unique requirements in the country. Property and alimony claims must be filed separately and before the divorce is final.
All 15 North Carolina Counties
North Carolina family law forms are filed in the county District Court where you or the defendant lives.
Mecklenburg
Wake
Guilford
Forsyth
Durham
Cumberland
Union
Cabarrus
Buncombe
Gaston
Onslow
New Hanover
Johnston
Catawba
Robeson