How are 529 Plans Handled in Divorce?

North Carolina is considered to be a “no-fault” divorce state, meaning that a couple need not show cause or some wrongdoing in order to obtain a divorce. However, marital misconduct does play a role with regard to the issue of alimony in North Carolina. In determining the amount, duration, and manner of payment of alimony, the Court must consider a variety of factors as laid out in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-16.3A(b). This statute lists 16 factors which the court will consider when determining the issue of alimony . One of the most often discussed and litigated of these factors is marital misconduct. N.C. Gen. Stat. § 50-16.1A defines marital misconduct as follows: ‘Marital misconduct’ means any of the following acts that occur during the marriage and prior to or on the date of separation: Illicit sexual behavior. For the purpose of this section, illicit sexual behavior means acts of sexual or deviate sexual intercourse, deviate sexual acts, or sexual acts defined in G.S. 14-27.20(4), voluntarily engaged in by a spouse with someone other than the other spouse; Involuntary separation of the spouses in consequence of a criminal act committed prior to the proceeding in which alimony is sought; Abandonment of the other spouse; Malicious turning out-of-doors of the other spouse; Cruel or barbarous treatment endangering the life of the other spouse; Indignities rendering the condition of the other spouse intolerable and life burdensome; Reckless spending of the income of either party, or the destruction, waste, diversion, or concealment of assets; Excessive use of alcohol or drugs so as to render the condition of the other spouse intolerable and life burdensome; Willful failure to provide necessary subsistence according to one's means and condition so as to render the condition of the other spouse intolerable and life burdensome.

The holiday season is a time traditionally associated with joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, for families going through a divorce, it can also be a time of heightened stress and emotional challenges. Managing these stressors effectively can help everyone involved – especially children – navigate this season with as much peace and stability as possible. Here are some common holiday stressors families experience during a divorce and practical strategies to address them: 1. Financial Pressures Divorce often brings financial changes that can make the holidays feel especially strained. Gift-giving, travel, and hosting events can add up quickly. Solution: Set a Budget: Be realistic about what you can afford this year. Focus on creating meaningful experiences rather than overextending financially. Free/low-cost experiences could include going to a holiday parade, going for a walk downtown or a drive around town to view the holiday lights, or taking the kids to the local mall or a store to visit Santa (or even the Grinch at some locations, such as the Cotton Exchange). Communicate with Co-Parent: Discuss gift budgets and avoid competitive or extravagant gift-giving, as this can create tension or unrealistic expectations for the children. 2. Emotional Strain on Children Holidays can amplify a child’s sense of loss or confusion about their family dynamics, especially if traditions are changing. Solution: Prioritize Consistency: Whenever possible, maintain familiar traditions to provide a sense of stability. Introduce new traditions as a way to create positive memories in this new chapter. Open Communication: Reassure your children that it’s okay to express their feelings and let them know both parents are committed to making the holidays special for them. 3. Loneliness or Isolation For people going through a divorce, the first holiday following separation can feel especially lonely and isolating. It’s normal to grieve the loss of how things used to be. Solution: Lean on Support Systems: Spend time with friends, family, or community groups that provide comfort and connection. Focus on Self-Care: Use this time to rest, reflect, and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. 4. Co-Parenting Tensions The holidays can sometimes exacerbate underlying tensions between co-parents, particularly if communication is strained or agreements are unclear. Solution: Keep Communication Businesslike: Focus on logistics rather than rehashing old conflicts. Tools like co-parenting apps, such as Our Family Wizard or Talking Parents, can help keep interactions clear and professional. Put the Children First: Decisions should always prioritize what’s best for the children, even if it requires compromise. 5. Managing Extended Family Expectations Extended family members may have their own opinions or pressures about how holidays “should” look, which can complicate matters further and exacerbate holiday stress. Solution: Set Boundaries: Be clear with family members about your plans and priorities. Gently but firmly remind them that the focus is on creating a positive experience for your immediate family and avoiding negative talk about the other party or your current situation. Include Supportive Relatives: If possible, involve family members who can help diffuse stress and provide stability during this transitional time. If you are going through a divorce this holiday season and need legal representation, please contact our office to set a consultation with one of our family law attorneys.

Navigating child custody arrangements can be one of the most challenging aspects of a separation or divorce. In North Carolina, the legal framework for child custody is designed to prioritize the best interests of the child, but understanding the different types of custody arrangements can be complex. This guide aims to shed light on the types of child custody in North Carolina, helping parents make informed decisions.

By: Ashley Pollard

Co-parenting is crucial to ensure that children continue to receive the love, support, and guidance they need from both parents despite the parents’ separation or divorce. By working together, parents can create a stable and nurturing environment that fosters the emotional and psychological well-being of their children. Effective co-parenting helps children adjust to change, reduces feelings of insecurity, and promotes healthy development. It also models positive conflict resolution and cooperation, providing a strong foundation for children’s future relationships. Ultimately, co-parenting prioritizes the best interests of the children, helping them thrive despite the family restructuring. Successful co-parenting after separation or divorce requires open communication, mutual respect, and a focus on the well-being of the parties’ children. To best ensure the success of a co-parenting relationship, it is crucial to keep discussions child-focused, and avoid negative talk about the other parent in front of the children. Flexibility and willingness to compromise are key, as well as seeking professional help if conflicts arise that cannot be resolved independently. Prioritizing the children’s emotional and physical needs will help ensure a positive co-parenting experience. Here is a list of ideas for potential resources that may help co-parents manage and support their children’s well-being while navigating the changing family structure:  Books for Children Age-appropriate books explaining separation and divorce Stories that help children understand and cope with their feelings Therapists and Counselors Child psychologists for children’s emotional and mental health Family therapists specializing in co-parenting dynamics Support Groups for Children Peer support groups for children of divorced parents In-person and online groups providing a safe space for children to share their experiences School counselors and social workers providing support and guidance Mobile Apps Apps designed to help children understand and manage their emotions Co-parenting apps with features to ensure both parents stay informed about their child’s activities and needs Books and Guides for Parents Manuals on how to support children through the transition Guides focusing on effective communication with children post-separation Guides focusing on effective communication with your child’s other parent Podcasts and Videos Podcasts offering advice on supporting children’s mental health during divorce YouTube channels with content aimed at helping children cope with family changes

Even if both spouses have each other’s best interests at heart, the separation process is rarely smooth. To avoid conflicts, sign a separation agreement.

Although the parties can choose to settle the child support issue without consulting a lawyer, it’s usually advisable to seek an expert’s assistance to protect the child’s interests.

Pet custody battles can get as heated as the ones for children, and even more so. That’s because the parties often have to come to an agreement on their own.

Divorce rates decline during economic hardships. But why does a recession affect divorce at all? And what does it mean for cases where separation is inevitable?