Property Settlement
Understanding Mediation and How It May Benefit Your Domestic Case
A mediator is a neutral third person who works with parties to help them attempt to resolve their issues in dispute in a mutually satisfactory manner. Mediation is different from arbitration. In mediation, the mediator works with the parties to help them reach an agreement between themselves whereas in arbitration, the arbitrator makes the decision…
Read MorePart 1: Self-Help Legal Services: The Dangers of the Do-It-Yourself Separation Agreement
In a family law context, do-it-yourself separation agreements present an area that is laden with potential problems. A separation agreement, which may also be referred to by other names such as a Marital Settlement Agreement or Contract of Separation and Property Settlement Agreement, is a written contract between a husband and wife wherein they reach…
Read MoreWhat Is Considered “Separate Property?”
In North Carolina, “separate property” refers to assets or debts owned by one spouse individually. Separate property is considered all property (real estate or personal property) acquired by a spouse prior to marriage, or acquired by gift or inheritance during the marriage. Separate property includes debts acquired prior to marriage such as student loans or…
Read MoreWho Should Get the Family Dog?
Many people consider their pet as a member of their family, not just personal property. Consequently, when couples split up, there are sometimes disagreements as to which party should take possession and responsibility for the family pet. In North Carolina, dogs, cats, horses and other animals are considered personal property, such as a television or…
Read MoreTruth or Consequences: The Impact of Lying in Your Domestic Case
There are many reasons why people lie – tell an intentional untruth – during domestic cases. When the stakes are high, such as when someone is faced with losing custody of their child or a spouse whom they still love, it is not surprising that they may embellish or outright lie to try to bolster…
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