Skip to content

We speak English and Spanish.

Absolute Divorce

Charlotte Absolute Divorce Lawyers

Compassionate help when you’re getting divorced in North Carolina

Going through a divorce can be one of the hardest times in your life. Whether you and your spouse are splitting on good terms or facing serious conflict, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what comes next. At Epperson Law Group, PLLC, we understand the emotional toll divorce can take—and we’re here to guide you through it with compassion and clear legal advice.

In North Carolina, most couples file for what’s called an absolute divorce, which is the legal end of the marriage. It sounds final because it is, but there are important steps you need to take to protect your rights, your finances, and your future. Our Charlotte divorce attorneys are here to help you navigate the process with confidence, whether your divorce is simple or complex. We’ll stand by you every step of the way.

Areas of Focus

Family Law Attorneys

What is absolute divorce in North Carolina?

An absolute divorce is the legal term for a complete and final end to a marriage in North Carolina. Once granted, it means you and your spouse are officially divorced, free to live separate lives, and able to remarry if you choose.

In North Carolina, you must be separated for at least one year without cohabitation (living together) before you can file for an absolute divorce based on separation. During the process of negotiating terms for an absolute divorce, the court often decides other important issues like:

  • Division of marital property
  • Child custody and visitation
  • Child support
  • Alimony (spousal support)

At Epperson Law Group, PLLC, our Charlotte divorce attorneys help you understand the absolute divorce process, protect your rights, and work toward a fair outcome.

What are the requirements for absolute divorce?

To get an absolute divorce in North Carolina, you need to meet certain legal requirements. The most common way to file is under the no-fault separation rule, which means:

  • You and your spouse have lived separately and apart for at least one full year.
  • During this time, you have not lived together as husband and wife (no cohabitation).
  • At least one spouse must have been a resident of North Carolina for six months before filing.

Once these requirements are met, you or your attorney can file a complaint for absolute divorce. After the court reviews your case and confirms the conditions are satisfied, the judge will grant the divorce, officially ending your marriage. At Epperson Law Group, PLLC, we help guide you through meeting these requirements and make sure your divorce moves as smoothly as possible.

Are there defenses to absolute divorce?

Yes, in some cases, a spouse may raise defenses to delay or challenge an absolute divorce. While North Carolina allows no-fault divorces after one year of separation, there are a few common defenses you might encounter:

  • If the couple resumes living together as husband and wife during the separation period, it can reset the one-year clock needed for divorce.
  • One spouse might argue that the couple was not truly separated and was still living together.
  • Defenses can include claims that the other spouse didn’t meet residency requirements or didn’t follow proper legal steps.

That said, absolute divorce based on one year of separation without cohabitation is generally straightforward. Defenses can delay the process but rarely prevent the divorce altogether. Our Charlotte absolute divorce attorneys help clients understand possible defenses and prepare strong cases to protect their rights during the divorce process.

What are the legal consequences of absolute divorce?

An absolute divorce ends your marriage completely and legally. Once the court grants it, you and your spouse are no longer married and can live separate lives. Here are some key legal consequences you should understand:

  • You’re no longer responsible for each other’s debts or obligations as spouses.
  • Both of you are free to marry someone else if you choose.
  • The court will divide marital property and debts fairly between you and your spouse.
  • Custody, visitation, and child support arrangements become legally binding.
  • If awarded, alimony payments become enforceable.

It’s important to know that once an absolute divorce is final, you cannot change the decision to end the marriage, but you can sometimes modify child custody or support orders if circumstances change. We can help guide you through understanding these consequences and protecting your rights during and after your divorce.

How can your Charlotte absolute divorce lawyers help with my case?

Getting an absolute divorce in Charlotte can feel overwhelming. However, you don’t have to go through it alone. Our experienced divorce lawyers at Epperson Law Group, PLLC, are here to guide you every step of the way. We help by:

  • Explaining your rights and options so you understand what to expect.
  • Handling all the paperwork and filings accurately and on time.
  • Negotiating fair agreements on property division, child custody, support, and alimony.
  • Representing you in court if your case needs a judge’s decision.
  • Protecting your interests so you get the best possible outcome.
  • Providing compassionate support during this emotional time.

Whether your divorce is straightforward or complicated, our Charlotte family law attorneys work hard to make the process smoother and less stressful. We focus on protecting your future and helping you move forward.

Family Law Firm

Do you have a Charlotte absolute divorce lawyer near me?

Our Charlotte office is located at 10851 Sikes Place, Charlotte, NC 28277. We’re right off the NC-16. Our team is available for appointments, telephone calls, and Zoom video consults.

Charlotte absolute divorce attorneys helping you and your family

At Epperson Law Group, PLLC, we know that divorce is more than just a legal process. It’s a deeply personal transition. Whether you’re just starting to consider divorce or ready to file, our experienced Charlotte absolute divorce lawyers are here to support you with clarity, compassion, and trusted legal guidance. We can walk with you every step of the way and work to protect what matters most. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation. Let’s talk about your situation, answer your questions, and help you take the next step forward with confidence. To reserve a consultation at one of our offices in Charlotte, Boone, or Weddington, please call our offices or fill out our contact form.