NC law and alimony rights

Getting ready to sign divorce papers next month. North Carolina residents. We have no legal separation papers. I am living in non marital home. Lived together 9 years…“as if” married and have been married almost 4 years. I was abused mentally, physically, eventually physically, etc. Happy to be getting out but am I entitled to alimony? Husband was bread winner. I just worked for him…off the books and did 95% of running the household. No dependent children? Help! Thanks.

You are entitled to alimony if you are the dependent spouse (actually and substantially dependent on your husband for your maintenance and support) and he is the supporting spouse. If this is the case for you, then you would likely be entitled to alimony, and the abuse could strengthen your case, depending on the circumstances, since marital misconduct is a factor in determining alimony.


Anna Ayscue

Attorney with Rosen Law Firm Cary • Chapel Hill • Durham • Raleigh • Wake Forest

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