Why You Don’t Always “Win” a Custody Battle

When I opened my first law practice in 2001, I had just spent three years prosecuting criminal cases in the Union County District Attorney’s Office.  While I was trained in the courtroom and find a sense of comfort there, I quickly learned that trying cases is not always best for my client, even when they […]

One to Buy; Two to Sell?

In North Carolina, the rule of thumb for married couples is that one spouse may purchase real property, but both spouses must sign the deed to sell property. Although this is a helpful memory tool, it isn’t completely true in every situation. If a married person can buy property in cash, with no deed of […]

What to Know When Buying A House with your Girlfriend or Boyfriend

It has become much more common for unmarried couples to purchase a house together. Whether you plan to remain unmarried, or you intend to get married in the near future, there are a few things you should know, or think about, when buying a house with your girlfriend or boyfriend: How You Hold Title In […]

Do I need an Estate Planning Attorney?

What will happen to your assets when you pass away? Who will be in charge of making sure your wishes are carried out? Who will look after your minor children in the event of your untimely death? The answers to these questions depend on the content of your will, trust, and advance directives. Have you […]

If You’re Over 18, You Need a Health Care Power of Attorney

In North Carolina, the General Assembly recognizes that we all have the fundamental right to control decisions related to our medical care.  In this effort, a law has been enacted to provide that anyone who is competent and at least 18 years of age in North Carolina can select a health care agent, known as […]

Introduction to the Elective Share

The statutory elective share is designed to prevent someone from disinheriting his/her spouse.  Upon a spouse’s death, the statute grants the surviving spouse the opportunity to receive a minimum amount of assets from the deceased spouse.   In order to qualify for the elective share, the surviving spouse must have received less than the statutory minimum […]

Getting Your Affairs in Order

There are several things that your attorney may recommend for getting your estate in order, but the most common documents include the following: Living Will – This document makes your wishes clear for medical treatments that you may or may not want to receive and eases the burden of your loved ones, who would otherwise […]

North Carolina Child Custody Law

In North Carolina, which parent has the care and control of a child is considered custody.  The court will consider any and all factors that pertain to and affect the child.  Ultimately, the court’s goal is to determine what is in the best interest of the children involved. Primary Custody means that one parent has […]

Legal Separation in North Carolina

In North Carolina, there is no such thing as a legal separation. As soon as one spouse moves out of the marital home, a separation has begun. It is not necessary to file anything to become legally separated. In fact, the only requirements for a recognized separation in North Carolina are (1) living separate and […]