Greensboro Divorce Lawyer

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What we handle in Greensboro

• Separation planning and absolute divorce filings
• Uncontested divorce with signed agreements and consent orders
• Contested divorce involving property, custody, or support disputes
• Temporary orders for custody, child support, and postseparation support
• Equitable distribution of homes, retirement, stock awards, and businesses
• Alimony claims and defenses, including modification and termination
• Parenting plans with exchanges, holidays, and school decisions
• 50B and 50C protection when safety is a concern
• Military divorce with jurisdiction and retired pay questions
• Appeals and post judgment cleanup when something went wrong

Divorce routes that fit your case

Uncontested divorce means both spouses sign a separation agreement that covers property and support. Many cases finish with a short appearance and clean consent orders that reduce cost and delay.

Contested divorce calls for a plan that includes discovery, early motions when needed, mediation, and a focused trial plan in Guilford County District Court.

Divorce from bed and board is a fault based claim that can affect possession of the home and short term support. It is not the final divorce but can provide relief during separation.

Mediation or collaborative paths work well when both sides exchange documents early. Many cases resolve in one day with consent orders the clerk can enter without repeat hearings.

Separation and filing basics in North Carolina

• One year separation is the most common ground for absolute divorce under G.S. 50-6. You must live separate and apart for at least 12 months with the intent that the separation be permanent.
• Residency requires that at least one spouse has lived in North Carolina for six months before filing.
• Filing and service start the case. Some matters finish with affidavits and consent orders. Other cases require a brief hearing.
• Name change can be requested in the divorce judgment to resume a former name.

Separation tip: keep the date of separation clear. Save a note with the date, update your mailing address, and avoid mixed finances that confuse the timeline.

Property division under equitable distribution

Classify assets and debts as marital, separate, or divisible. Marital property is usually acquired from the date of marriage to the date of separation.

Value the home, retirement accounts, stock awards, vehicles, small businesses, and investment accounts with statements and appraisals as needed.

Distribute fairly with percentage allocations, cash offsets, and QDROs for employer retirement plans. Proposals should be clear for payroll and plan administrators.

Tracing and growth is used to protect separate property and show passive increases or marital contributions.

Read more: Greensboro property division lawyer and Greensboro QDRO lawyer.

Alimony and postseparation support

The court first decides if one spouse is a dependent spouse and the other is a supporting spouse. If yes, the court sets amount and duration using the factors in G.S. 50-16.3A. Postseparation support is short term and can be ordered while the case is pending.

For orders and agreements after 2018, alimony is generally not deductible to the payor and not taxable to the recipient for federal returns. Ask a tax professional about your situation.

Child custody and child support during divorce

Custody orders set legal decision making and parenting time. Schedules can include school routines, exchanges, travel, and holidays. If a parent plans a move, UCCJEA rules control which court has jurisdiction.

Child support uses the North Carolina Child Support Guidelines and Worksheets A, B, or C. Inputs include each parent’s gross income, overnights, health insurance premiums, and work related childcare. Courts can consider deviations in rare cases with strong proof.

Start here: Greensboro child support lawyer and North Carolina child custody.

Temporary orders in the first 60 to 90 days

• Temporary custody and exchanges
• Postseparation support and child support
• Bill payment plans to keep the mortgage or rent current
• Short discovery deadlines and mediation dates

A tight temporary order reduces conflict and sets a smooth path to settlement.

Mediation and trial

Custody mediation is often required by the court. It gives parents a chance to agree before a judge decides.

Private mediation for property and support works when both sides bring accurate documents. Many cases resolve in a single session with a clear consent order.

If trial is needed, we focus on clean exhibits, short witness lists, and orders that are specific enough for payroll, banks, and retirement plans to follow.

Military divorce

• Jurisdiction questions when a spouse is stationed away
• Parenting plans that account for deployments and training
• Division of military retired pay and Survivor Benefit Plan choices
• SCRA stay requests when duty prevents attendance

Learn more: Greensboro military divorce.

Local courts and calendars

Most divorce matters for this area are heard in Guilford County District Court with courtrooms in Greensboro and High Point. Many cases settle by consent once both sides exchange documents. When a hearing is required, we present the separation timeline, the financial picture, and any urgent needs with a simple and accurate record.

Your first 72 hours with our team

Evidence checklist

• Pay stubs for the last three months and the most recent W-2 or 1099
• Tax returns for the last two years if available
• Bank and card statements that match your monthly budget
• Deed, mortgage or lease, car titles, and insurance declarations
• Retirement and brokerage statements, including any stock awards
• Business financials if a company is involved
• Health or childcare records that affect work hours
• A parenting time calendar for the last 60 to 90 days
• Any prior orders or written agreements

Why Greensboro clients choose Culbertson and Associates

• 20 plus years in North Carolina divorce practice
• Regular calendars in Guilford County District Court
• Clean budgets, property spreadsheets, and orders that work in the real world
• Settlement first when possible, ready for trial when it is not
• Straightforward fees and steady timelines