Get divorced cleanly—and protect what matters. We guide North Carolina clients through absolute divorce, equitable distribution (property division), alimony, custody & support, and settlement strategy so your orders are clear and agencies can follow them.
Krispen Culbertson, North Carolina family law attorney with 20+ years handling absolute divorce, equitable distribution, alimony, custody & child support, mediation, and high-asset matters. Weekly District Court calendars in Guilford County; filings statewide as needed.
Memberships: North Carolina State Bar; local family law sections. Courts: District Courts across NC with regular hearings in Greensboro & High Point.
Eligibility & timing: North Carolina has specific requirements for absolute divorce and filing venue. We confirm your timeline at intake so filings are valid.
Don’t wait on claims: Property division (equitable distribution) and alimony claims should be raised before the divorce is finalized. We calendar every deadline.
Orders agencies follow: We draft language HR/payroll, banks, and retirement plans can implement (wage withholding, QDROs, deed/Title changes).
Safety and stability: Need immediate relief? We pursue temporary orders and protective measures while the case proceeds.
North Carolina divorce process—step by step
We map your goals, confirm eligibility, and file the right claims in the right court. From initial filings and disclosures through mediation and, if needed, trial, you’ll have clear timelines and next steps.
Property division (equitable distribution)
Classify, value, and distribute marital assets and debts—homes, retirement (QDROs), equity comp, and business interests. Clean orders avoid post-judgment problems. Learn more: Property Division & Equitable Distribution.
Alimony & post-separation support
We evaluate income, budgets, and statutory factors to pursue or defend support. When circumstances change later, we guide modification or termination requests the right way.
Custody, parenting plans & child support
We build parenting schedules and decision-making plans that fit your family. Child support follows guidelines and documented needs. Related: Child Custody • Child Support.
Mediation & settlement
Most cases settle with strong disclosure and realistic proposals. We prepare thoroughly so mediation is efficient and agreements are enforceable (with proper notarization and filings).
High-net-worth divorce & business owners
We coordinate with CPAs and valuation experts for closely held companies, RSUs/options, trusts, and complex real estate. Orders are drafted so banks and plan administrators will honor them.
Temporary orders & protective relief
When immediate structure is needed, we pursue temporary custody, support, exclusive possession of the residence, and other interim relief. For safety, see DVPO (50B) and 50C orders.
Military & interstate issues
We handle deployments, SCRA stays, and interstate jurisdiction for custody/support with our Interstate & International practice.
What to bring and your first 72 hours
Disclosure & documents
2–3 years of tax returns, recent pay stubs, and bank/brokerage/retirement statements
Mortgage, loans, credit lines, and credit cards statements
Business financials (if applicable) and equity compensation summaries
Current orders or agreements; communications relevant to custody/support
Your first 72 hours with our team
1) Roadmap & claims Confirm eligibility, venue, and all claims (ED, alimony) before divorce finalizes.
2) Financial packet Assemble disclosures; start classification and valuation.
3) Temporary relief Stabilize with interim custody/support as needed.
4) Mediation plan Identify realistic settlement ranges and non-negotiables.
5) Draft orders Use agency-ready language (payroll, banks, schools) to prevent friction.
FAQs
Can I finalize the divorce and handle property later?
Some claims must be raised before entry of the divorce judgment. We calendar and file the right claims so rights aren’t waived.
Will I have to go to court?
Many cases resolve at mediation with consent orders. If trial is needed, we prepare evidence and witnesses to match the issues.
How is property divided?
North Carolina uses equitable distribution—classification, valuation, and distribution of marital assets and debts. Clean findings and clear orders avoid post-judgment disputes.
How is alimony decided?
Courts weigh need and ability to pay along with statutory factors. We present budgets, income proofs, and focused evidence for fair results.
What if I need protection now?
We can pursue temporary orders and, where appropriate, protective relief (50B/50C). Safety planning and fast filings come first.
Why North Carolina families choose Culbertson & Associates
20+ years in NC divorce, ED, alimony, custody & support
Agency-ready orders (HR, banks, retirement plans) that work
Mediation-first strategy with trial-ready preparation
Local court experience—regular District Court calendars
Client reviews
★★★★★
Hannah R. — Clear plan from day one. Mediation settled it all and the orders were accepted by payroll and my 401(k) administrator.
★★★★★
Patel M. — They protected my business interests and handled the QDROs without hiccups. Professional and responsive.
★★★★★
Alvarez J. — Temporary custody and support stabilized everything fast. I finally felt heard and protected.
★★★★★
Bennett S. — Thorough disclosures and calm negotiation—no court fight needed. Highly recommend.
★★★★★
Chen D. — My case had stock options and a rental portfolio. Their team coordinated smoothly with my CPA and banker.
★★★★★
Alison T. — They kept enforcement on track post-judgment so the payments actually arrived.
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