At Castle, Peterson & Naylor, P.C., we understand that family legal issues can be emotionally challenging and complex. Our team of experienced family lawyers in Jacksonville, North Carolina, provides compassionate and effective legal counsel to help you navigate these difficult times.
We can help you with a wide range of family law services tailored to meet your unique needs:
Divorce and Separation Agreements
Navigating the end of your marriage can be overwhelming. We’ll guide you through the process, protecting your rights and interests. Whether you’re facing a contested or uncontested divorce, we’ll help you negotiate fair settlements and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Child Custody and Child Support
Your children’s best interests are our priority. We’ll help you establish fair custody arrangements and appropriate child support agreements. Together, we’ll create parenting plans that foster healthy relationships and provide financial stability for your children.
Alimony and Spousal Support
Whether you’re seeking support or responding to a claim, we’ll work diligently to secure fair alimony arrangements. We’ll help you understand North Carolina’s alimony laws and advocate for a fair resolution based on factors such as your marriage length, earning capacity, and standard of living during the marriage.
Property Division
Dividing marital assets and debts can be complex. We’ll help you navigate this process, striving for equitable solutions. Our experience covers various types of property, including real estate, retirement accounts, businesses, and complex financial portfolios.
Local Expertise
With several years of experience assisting and representing family law clients in Jacksonville and Kenansville, North Carolina, we understand the local court systems and community dynamics. This familiarity gives you a distinct advantage. For instance, our knowledge of the Onslow County Courthouse procedures can help streamline your case and potentially save you time and stress.
Personalized Approach
Your family’s situation is unique, and we treat it as such. We’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and develop strategies tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with a high-conflict divorce or a straightforward separation agreeement, we’ll craft legal solutions that align with your goals and values.
Comprehensive Resources
Our in-house investigator provides unparalleled support for your case. In family law matters, this resource can be invaluable. For example, if you’re concerned about hidden assets in a divorce, our investigator can help uncover crucial financial information. Or, in a custody case, they might gather evidence to support your position on the best living arrangement for your children.
Compassionate Advocacy
We know that family legal matters can be emotionally taxing. That’s why we approach each case with empathy. Beyond legal expertise, we offer emotional support throughout the process. We’re here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you make informed decisions during these challenging times.
At Castle, Peterson & Naylor, P.C., we’re more than just your legal representatives – we’re your partners in navigating these challenging times. As your family lawyers in Jacksonville, North Carolina, we’re committed to:
We understand that facing family legal issues can be one of the most stressful experiences of your life. That’s why we’re not just here to handle the legal aspects of your case, but to support you through the entire process. Our commitment goes beyond the courtroom – we’re here to help you build a better future for you and your family.
We believe in building long-term relationships with our clients. Our support doesn’t end when your current case is resolved – we’re here for you if future family law matters arise, ensuring continuity and familiarity in your legal representation.
Don’t face family legal challenges alone. Let the experienced family lawyers at Castle, Peterson & Naylor, P.C. guide you through this difficult time.
Call (910) 347-3344 to schedule a consultation with our experienced family law team in Jacksonville, North Carolina. We’re here to listen, advise and stand by your side every step of the way.
In North Carolina, there is a mandatory one year separation period before you can file for divorce. However, you can, and you’re encouraged to, file an action, immediately after your separation, to assert your claims based on the status of having been married. The exact timeline can vary depending on the case’s complexity and whether the claims asserted in it are contested or uncontested. Factors such as property division and child custody disputes can extend the process.
North Carolina courts consider various factors when determining child custody, including the child’s relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child’s needs, and the child’s preference (if they’re of sufficient age and maturity). The court also looks at each parent’s home environment, work schedule and ability to foster the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Yes and no. At the outset of the process the court can grant the dependent spouse temporary spousal support. Temporary spousal support is referred to in North Carolina as ‘post separation support.’ However, such temporary spousal support can be increased or decreased later later in the process when the court determines the amount of spousal support permanently. Permanent spousal support is what’s commonly referred to as ‘alimony.’ Alimony is subject to termination, though, if the receiving spouse is shown to be cohabitating with a third party.
North Carolina follows the principle of equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. Factors considered include the income and debts of each spouse, the length of the marriage, and contributions to the marriage. The court also considers the liquid or nonliquid character of marital assets and the difficulty of evaluating complex property such as business interests.
While it’s possible to represent yourself, family law matters can be complex and emotionally charged. An experienced family lawyer can provide valuable guidance, protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your situation. A lawyer can also ensure that all necessary legal documents are properly prepared and filed, potentially saving you time and stress in the long run.