When to File for Divorce in NC?

When is the appropriate time to file for divorce? Do we have to wait for the 1 year separation period or can the divorce papers be filed ahead of time so that when the 1 year date comes the papers are automatically filed? How does that work? Do we have to be living in separate residences to be officially separated?

Thank you.

You must be living in separate residences for one year and one day prior to filing an action for divorce. You may want to check out the video on this website which describes what all is involved in getting an absolute divorce finalized.