Separation and Divorce

The Law Office of Lila E. Washington, PLLC understands that most couples don’t get married with the intention of ever going through a divorce. As they take their vows, they are committed to being together for life. Unfortunately, many marriages will end in divorce. At this point, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced Fayetteville Divorce Attorney who can help you understand the legal steps you must take in order to prepare your case.

Attorney Lila E. Washington has extensive knowledge of the stringent rules and laws surrounding separation and divorce in North Carolina. She also has over 30 years of legal experience helping clients protect their rights and best interests through the separation and divorce process.

Attorney Washington often states – “More often than not, people who represent themselves in complicated divorce cases cause themselves more harm than good”.

When a couple decides to end their marriage, it is a major life change. It not only impacts and affects the lives of couple, but the lives of friends and family members, as well. If children are involved, separation and divorce impacts their Custody and Support, as well as, their education, health, and overall state of mind.

Separation and divorce also impacts the payment of Spousal Support and Alimony, the Division of Marital Property such as the family home, vehicles, bank accounts, retirement accounts, and how outstanding family debts will be paid.

“Attorney Washington is a dedicated professional. She is thorough and highly intelligent. Attorney Washington has high standards and her promise to provide quality legal services is exactly what you will receive. Her experience prepares her for making sound decisions regarding your case. In the courtroom, she is passionate and quick-thinking. Her compassion for families and her willingness to put in the extra work without the extra money is what truly makes her sought after. Attorney Washington, a woman of integrity, is the most competent, reliable and flexible attorney I have ever retained”. – Tiera Williamson

The Divorce Process in North Carolina

In order to file for a divorce, spouses must live separately for more than one year with the intention that the separation be permanent. Additionally, at least one spouse must have lived in North Carolina for at least six months or more. It is important to know that a divorce only dissolves the marriage. It does not resolve other issues related to the termination of a marriage, such as:

• Spousal Support, Alimony, Spousal Support, and Post Separation Support
• Division of Property
• Child Custody, Visitation, and Support

Often, child custody, visitation, child support, alimony, and property division issues can be worked out in a written separation agreement prior to or even after the filing for a divorce. In a separation agreement, both spouses have a chance to clearly outline each of their rights and responsibility regarding these matters. Once both spouses have signed the agreement, it becomes a binding contract and can only be modified or changed in very limited situations.

“Attorney Lila Washington is a professional and hard working woman. She represented me during my separation, divorce, child custody (the custody battle was the hard one) and more. I’ve hired her twice and would hire her again if I ever needed an attorney. I’ve also referred a couple of my close friends to her. She took what seemed like an impossible obstacle in my life to do what was right for my family and helped me accomplish it. I will always be grateful for her and her service. I would highly recommend her to represent you and do what needs to be done for your family”. – Erika Mayfield

Divorce and issues that flow from a separation can be a very complicated and complex process. The Law Office of Attorney Lila E. Washington, PLLC will help you transition from this stage of life to the next by competently guiding you through the steps associated with separation and divorce.

Contact our office today to discuss your challenging legal matters.
Call us at (910) 433-2171.