Divorce Lawyer in Raleigh, NC — Your Complete 2025 Guide

Choosing the right divorce lawyer in Raleigh, North Carolina can make an enormous difference in navigating child custody, property division, and overall stress levels during a separation. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about divorcing in Raleigh — including court details, residency requirements, attorney costs, and affordable alternatives for uncontested divorces.

Do You Need a Divorce Lawyer in Raleigh?

A Raleigh divorce lawyer may be necessary if your case involves:

• Custody, visitation, or major parenting disputes

• High-conflict communication or emotional volatility

• Retirement accounts, real estate, or substantial assets

• Family-owned businesses or complex investments

• Disagreements over alimony (post-separation support)

• Domestic violence or need for protective orders

• Suspected hidden assets or financial manipulation

• A case likely requiring litigation or trial

However, you may NOT need a lawyer if your divorce is uncontested, meaning both spouses agree on:

• Parenting time and custody

• Child support and temporary support

• Alimony (if any)

• Division of assets and debts

• Real estate and retirement accounts

• Who keeps the marital home

In uncontested cases, Divorce.com can prepare or file your Raleigh divorce documents at a fraction of the cost of attorney-led divorce.

Where to File for Divorce in Raleigh, NC

Divorces in Raleigh are handled by the Wake County District Court, which is part of North Carolina’s Tenth Judicial District.

Primary Filing Location

Wake County Clerk of Superior Court & District Court
Wake County Courthouse
316 Fayetteville Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
(919) 792-4000

This courthouse manages:

• Divorce filings

• Child custody & visitation

• Child support & alimony

• Domestic violence protective orders

• Mediation & case management

• Hearings & trials

North Carolina does not currently offer statewide e-filing for self-represented parties, so most couples file in person.

North Carolina Residency Requirements for Divorce

To file for divorce in Raleigh, you must meet the state requirements:

• One spouse must have lived in North Carolina for at least 6 months

• You must live separately for one full year before filing for absolute divorce

North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state — separation is the required basis.

How Divorce Works in Raleigh, NC

Here’s how the divorce process typically works in Wake County:

1. File a Complaint for Absolute Divorce

This includes basic information about the marriage and separation.

2. Serve Your Spouse

Service must be completed via:

• Sheriff

• Certified mail

• Private process server

• Voluntary acceptance of service

3. Equitable Distribution & Custody (Optional but Common)

Many couples file additional claims for:

• Property division

• Child custody

• Child support

• Alimony

4. Mandatory Separation Period

North Carolina requires 12 months of separation before divorce can be finalized.

5. Parenting Requirements (If Children Are Involved)

Wake County courts may require:

• Mediation

• Parenting classes

• Filing a proposed parenting plan

6. Hearings, Mediation, or Settlement

Uncontested cases may finalize quickly.
Contested cases may involve:

• Temporary hearings

• Discovery

• Mediation

• Settlement conferences

• Trial

7. Final Decree of Absolute Divorce

A judge signs the decree, legally ending the marriage.

How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Raleigh, NC?

Attorney fees in Raleigh are usually moderate compared to larger metros.

Typical costs:

• Hourly rate: $250–$450

• Uncontested divorce with a lawyer: $1,800–$4,000

• Contested divorce: $8,000–$20,000+

• High-asset or high-conflict cases: $25,000–$60,000+

Custody cases usually drive the highest fees.

Local Divorce Lawyers in Raleigh, NC

Here are reputable Raleigh divorce attorneys from your directory:

1. Charles R. Ullman & Associates

https://www.charlesullman.com

2. Vitale Family Law

https://www.vitalefamilylaw.com

3. Wake Family Law Group

https://www.wakefamilylawgroup.com

These firms handle high-conflict custody cases, complex asset division, mediation, and litigation.

More Affordable Alternatives to Hiring a Lawyer

If your divorce is uncontested, you may not need traditional attorney representation.

Divorce.com offers three flat-fee services:

Paperwork Only — $499

We prepare all North Carolina divorce documents.

We File for You — $999

We prepare and file your documents with the Wake County District Court.

Fully Guided Divorce — $1999

A 1:1 specialist handles your entire case from start to finish.

These services are ideal for couples seeking a smooth, affordable divorce option.

When You Should Choose a Lawyer Instead

Hire a Raleigh divorce attorney if:

• Custody or parenting time is contested

• Your spouse refuses to negotiate

• Domestic violence or safety issues are present

• You or your spouse own a business or significant assets

• One spouse may be hiding income or property

• The case may require hearings or trial

Why Divorce.com Is a Smart Choice for Raleigh Couples

• North Carolina-specific forms

• Transparent flat-fee pricing

• Filing services available

• Experienced divorce specialists

• Faster, simpler, and more affordable than law firms

• Ideal for uncontested divorces

Divorce.com gives Raleigh families a clearer, more affordable path forward.

Start Your Raleigh Divorce Today

Whether you choose to hire a lawyer or use an online divorce platform, getting started is the most important step. Divorce.com helps Raleigh residents complete their divorce quickly, affordably, and with professional support.