Frequently Asked Questions

A consultation is a private conversation about your situation. You tell us what is going on, we ask a few questions, and we give you an honest read on your options. There is no obligation to hire us afterward. When you request one, we will explain how the consultation works and any fee before you commit to anything.

Separation comes first. In North Carolina, spouses generally live separately for a year before a divorce can be granted. A lot of the important work, dividing property and finances and setting arrangements for the children, often happens during that period, frequently through a separation agreement. The divorce itself is the final legal step that ends the marriage. We explain how this applies to your circumstances on the divorce page.

Often, no. Many family matters are resolved by agreement, which is usually calmer, more private, and less costly than a courtroom. When two people can reach fair terms with their lawyers' help, we work toward that. Court is there for the matters that genuinely need a judge, and we are ready for those too. We will give you an honest read on which path is realistic for your situation.

North Carolina courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child. In practice that means stability, safety, and a real relationship with both parents where that is healthy. Parents can also agree on a parenting plan themselves, which keeps the decisions in their hands. There is more on the custody page.

North Carolina uses guidelines based mainly on each parent's income, the number of overnights with each parent, and certain costs such as health insurance and child care. Because it follows a formula, child support is often more predictable than people expect. We will run the numbers with you so you know roughly what to expect. Spousal support is decided differently, with more discretion; the support page explains both.

Sometimes, yes. A genuine change in circumstances, such as a job loss, a move, a new schedule, or a change in the children's needs, can be grounds to revisit an order. We can help you ask the court to adjust an arrangement, or respond if the other side is asking. The key word is genuine: courts look for a real, material change, not just a preference.

It depends on the matter and on how much the two sides can agree. An uncontested adoption or a straightforward agreement can move quickly. A contested matter that needs the court takes longer, partly because of court schedules. We will give you a realistic sense of timing for your situation, and we keep you informed if it shifts.

Yes. What you share with us is treated in confidence. For your own protection, we ask that the consultation form and any message stay brief, and that you save sensitive details for our private conversation. That is simply good practice with anything sent over the internet.

We serve families across Asheville and Buncombe County and the surrounding parts of Western North Carolina. If you are nearby but unsure whether we cover your area, call and ask. We are glad to point you in the right direction either way.

Of course. Many people reach out simply to understand their options before deciding anything. A consultation can give you clarity and a little peace of mind, with no commitment to take a next step. You are welcome to think things over for as long as you need.