Next steps - just to be clear

North Carolina Divorce Law
1

I reveiwed many of the answers but want to be sure I am correct.

The spouse filed for divorce. I did an official answer to their complaint. In my response I was not contesting or asking for anything and was in agreement for the divorce. They did not want anything except to divorce and change their name. The spouse has requested a court date and I got a certified copy of the court date.

My questions are:

  1. Do I have to attend the court hearing?

I did not think I had to attend and was planning on not attending. I want to make sure I am not doing anything that the court would frown on or that I would get in trouble for.

  1. Is there any reason why I should attend the court hearing?

I do not see any reason why, but am asking to make sure.

  1. Once the judge grants the divorce

    • How will I know the divorce is final? In other words how am I notified if I am notified at all.
    • How do I get a copy of the divorce decree?

  2. After that that’s it - yes?

2

(1) If you are not contesting the absolute divorce and you filed an answer to the complaint admitting all allegations, then no, you would not need to be present.

(2) You can attend if you want to make sure the divorce is granted.

(3) The Plaintiff is supposed to send you a copy of the filed divorce judgment. You can also obtain a copy on the NC Courts portal if your county e-files, or from the clerk’s office if your county does not efile.

(4) Once the divorce judgment is signed by the judge and filed, then you are no longer legally married to your spouse and there is nothing more that needs to be done.

Anna Ayscue

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

Rosen Online | Unlimited confidential access to a North Carolina attorney for $199/mo - click here

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