Greensboro Family Law Lawyer

Our Specialties

Family Law Lawyer Greensboro, NC

On Your Side

A Greensboro Family Lawyer

Who Represents Your Interests

We don’t anticipate needing a judge to step in and resolve a family dispute, but for many people in the Triad region, court intervention is the only way to resolve a change in the legal relationships of family members. Divorce, adoption, questions of paternity, and grandparents’ rights—all these issues often require legal intervention to resolve. If you are facing a change in your family structure and need protection, turn to our Greensboro, NC family lawyer. At The Spagnola Law Firm, we bring 25 years of experience in family law litigation to your benefit. Please call us today for a confidential consultation.

Family Lawyer Greensboro, NC

Family law encompasses a wide range of matters, dealing with one person’s legal responsibilities and obligations to another. Divorce is one of the most common family law matters, and since dissolving a marriage means dissolving the contract and the obligations each spouse has to the other, as well as the legal division of property, the courts must get involved, even if it’s just to affirm a divorce decree and make it official. Likewise, any change in responsibility for a minor child can become a family law matter, from establishing paternity to minor emancipation, child custody and support, and grandparents’ rights.

Our firm can help you grow your family, too. If you’re pursuing adoption, we can help facilitate your application and prepare you for home visits. We also complete adult and step-child adoptions, bringing your family ties even closer. Or, if you’re contemplating marriage, we can explain your options for prenuptial agreements, draft one for you and negotiate terms with your fiancé, or review a prenuptial agreement presented to you. Although family law matters involve close relationships and strong emotions, they also involve legal and contractual matters, which our attorneys manage on your behalf.

Family law matters are quite personal and sensitive, so we take a compassionate approach to your situation. We get to know you, so we understand what matters most to you, then explain your legal options for achieving that goal.

Protecting Your Family Is Important. Our Experience Matters

You don’t often get a second chance in cases like divorce, child custody, or grandparents’ rights. Changing your legal obligations and fiduciary responsibilities to your family can quickly get complicated. Our Greensboro family law lawyer untangles the familial threads, protects your rights, and advocates for your best interests in court and in mediation. Our experience means you’re in good hands.

• Firm founder Sam Spagnola is a published author in family law matters, including the North Carolina Bar Association Family Forum, Vol. 31 NO. 2
• Our commitment to our clients and their families is evident by our honors as an AVVO Client’s Choice Award winner and an AVVO Top Child Custody Attorney Recognition
• We’re well-respected members of the legal community, including Sam’s term role as the Past President of the Family Law Section of the Greensboro Bar Association
• Mr. Spagnola is a Board Certified Family Law Specialist by the North Carolina Board of Legal Specialization, a designation held by less than 5% of North Carolina attorneys

Comprehensive Family Law Representation

The Spagnola Law Firm offers almost 30 years of experience across all areas of family law, representing both petitioners and respondents throughout Greensboro. We handle divorce, alimony, custody, prenuptials, separation, child support, property division, adoption, and domestic violence protection orders, providing complete family law services under one roof.

Our fee structure adapts to your needs: we charge hourly rates for most matters but offer flat fees for certain adoption types and simple, uncontested divorces where both parties agree on major terms. This flexibility helps make quality legal representation accessible regardless of your situation. Whether you’re starting a family through adoption, protecting assets with a prenuptial agreement, seeking safety through a domestic violence order, or facing the challenges of divorce and custody disputes, we provide practical guidance tailored to your circumstances. Having one firm handle all aspects of your family law matter means consistent representation and a deep understanding of how each issue affects the others in your case.

No matter how overwhelming your family law matter seems, you’re in the best of hands with The Spagnola Law Firm. We invite you to call us for a consultation with our attorneys.

Types Of Family Cases We Handle

Finding the right support for sensitive family law matters starts with a team you can trust. At The Spagnola Law Firm, we’ve spent over 25 years helping individuals and families across Greensboro and the Triad region resolve difficult legal issues. With recognition from NC Family Law SuperLawyers®, AVVO’s 5-Star Client Choice Award, and the Client Champion Award, we’re proud to bring trusted experience and compassionate guidance to every case. If you need a Greensboro, NC family lawyer who understands the stakes and puts your needs first, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Family law encompasses more than just divorce—it touches every part of your life, from parenting to protection. Our team handles a wide range of family law issues, always intending to find solutions that support your goals and give you peace of mind.

Divorce And Legal Separation

We support clients facing both contested and uncontested divorces, helping them make informed decisions during a difficult transition. From asset division to temporary orders, we guide you through every step with clarity and care.

Child Custody And Visitation

Parenting plans should reflect the best interests of your child while also protecting your parental rights. We assist with initial custody agreements, modifications, and enforcement actions, keeping your family’s future at the forefront.

Child Support

Whether you’re paying or receiving child support, having accurate financial calculations and fair agreements is key. We work to establish, modify, or enforce support orders based on your unique circumstances.

Spousal Support (Alimony)

Financial support may be appropriate depending on the length of the marriage, income disparity, and other factors. We help evaluate your options and pursue fair arrangements that reflect your needs.

Property Division

Splitting assets, debts, and marital property requires attention to detail and a firm understanding of North Carolina law. Our attorneys are experienced in identifying equitable solutions that avoid unnecessary conflict.

Domestic Violence Protection

If you or a loved one is facing abuse, securing protective orders and legal safety measures is urgent. Our team helps you take fast action while providing ongoing legal and emotional support.

Adoption

Adoption is one of the most joyful areas of family law, but it also involves a detailed legal process. Our team of experienced professionals is prepared to help you manage everything from private adoptions to stepparent and relative adoption, handling paperwork, hearings, and agency requirements.

Legal Separation Agreements

Not every couple who separates moves directly toward divorce. Our professionals will assist you in drafting and formalizing separation agreements that address finances, custody, and property while living apart.

When you’re looking for a Greensboro family lawyer who understands the emotional and legal weight of these cases, we’re here to listen and help. Every family’s situation is different, and The Spagnola Law Firm is committed to creating a legal path that fits yours. Connect with our team today to schedule a confidential consultation and get the clarity you deserve.

Common Causes Of Family Law Disputes

Family law disputes can be emotionally draining and legally difficult. These issues often involve people closest to us, which makes the legal process even more challenging. Disputes in family law may arise from a variety of personal and financial factors, and understanding the root causes can help you prepare for what lies ahead. Our family law lawyer plays an integral function in guiding individuals through these situations with clarity and compassion. At The Spagnola Law Firm, we’ve seen countless families in the Greensboro and Triad area face these common family law challenges. Sam Spagnola, a Board Certified Family Law Specialist by the North Carolina Board of Legal Specialization, has been serving this community for over 25 years with dedication and legal skill. Below are some of the most common causes of family law disputes.

Child Custody Disagreements

Nothing brings out conflict more than decisions regarding a child’s future. Disputes often occur when parents can’t agree on who should have primary custody, visitation schedules, or decisions related to the child’s education and health care. Our lawyer may help mediate and advocate for arrangements that serve the child’s best interests.

Division of Marital Property

Property division during a divorce can quickly become contentious. Assets like homes, vehicles, retirement accounts, and business interests often lead to disagreements. One party may feel entitled to more due to their contributions or sacrifices during the marriage.

Alimony or Spousal Support Conflicts

Another common area of dispute is spousal support. Whether one party seeks alimony or the other resists paying it, emotions can run high. Factors such as income, earning potential, and length of marriage play into the final decision.

Child Support Disputes

Even when custody arrangements are settled, disagreements over child support are frequent. A parent may claim the other isn’t contributing enough or is not spending the money appropriately. These issues require our skilled legal advocate to protect the child’s needs while maintaining fairness.

Domestic Violence or Abuse Allegations

When allegations of abuse enter the equation, the situation becomes more serious. These cases can impact custody, visitation, and even result in protective orders. False or exaggerated claims can also complicate legal matters, requiring a legal professional who can effectively present your side in court.

Disagreements Over Parenting Styles or Decisions

Sometimes, disputes don’t arise from custody or support, but from ongoing co-parenting issues. Disagreements about religion, education, medical treatments, or discipline can lead to ongoing legal conflict, especially in high-conflict custody situations.

Prenuptial or Postnuptial Agreement Challenges

Prenups and postnups are meant to prevent disputes, but they can become a source of conflict themselves if one party contests the agreement’s validity. Our family attorney may be needed to argue for or against the enforceability of these contracts.

How Our Professionals Help To Resolve Your Dispute

Family law matters are rarely simple, and the emotional toll they take should not be underestimated. Working with an experienced family lawyer may provide stability, support, and strategic advice when you need it most. We’re committed to helping you find the best path forward. Sam Spagnola has spent over 25 years helping families in Greensboro and the Triad resolve even the most complicated legal matters. If you’re facing a family law dispute, don’t go through it alone. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and protect what matters most to you.

Greensboro Family Infographic

Greensboro Family Law Statistics

Family law involves marital status changes such as marriage and divorce, and national data show measurable patterns in these areas. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. vital statistics indicate that the crude divorce rate is approximately 2.4 divorces per 1,000 people in the population, reflecting how many legal dissolutions occur relative to total population size. 

This rate is substantially lower than in previous decades, illustrating longer-term shifts in family dynamics and marriage stability. At the same time, the marriage rate stands near 6.1 marriages per 1,000 people, showing that legal unions remain common but occur less frequently than at historical peaks. These figures are based on provisional reporting from most states and serve as key benchmarks in understanding family formation and dissolution trends. 

Family Law FAQs

When you are facing a family law issue, you likely have many questions about what to expect. The legal process can be unclear, and it’s important to understand your rights and obligations before taking action. Call our Greensboro, NC family lawyer today if you need to review your legal options!

Is North Carolina A “No-Fault” Divorce State?

Yes, North Carolina is a no-fault divorce state. This means that you do not need to prove that your spouse did something wrong, such as adultery or abandonment, to get a divorce. The only legal requirement for a divorce in North Carolina is that you and your spouse have lived separate and apart for at least one year and one day.

Can I Get A Divorce If My Spouse Does Not Agree?

Yes, you can still get a divorce even if your spouse does not agree to it. As long as you have met the legal requirement of living separate and apart for a year and one day and at least one of you has been a resident of the state for six months, you can file for divorce. Your spouse’s consent is not needed to dissolve the marriage. Our legal team has decades of experience, and we can help you avoid common mistakes, even when the divorce isn’t amicable.

Is Property Divided Equally In A Divorce?

No, property is not always divided equally in a divorce. North Carolina law uses a principle called “equitable distribution,” which means the court divides marital property fairly, but not necessarily in a 50/50 split. Our attorney, Sam Spagnola, is experienced when it comes to property division, and he can use mediation to help you and your spouse save time and money.

Do Mothers Have An Automatic Advantage In Child Custody Cases?

No, a mother does not have an automatic advantage in child custody cases. North Carolina courts must treat both parents equally when determining custody. The law requires a judge to make a decision based on the best interest of the child. This means the court will look at a variety of factors, including the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to provide a stable home, and the parent’s past involvement in the child’s life.

Can A Lawyer Help Me Get A Restraining Order?

Yes, our Greensboro family lawyer can help you obtain a restraining order. In North Carolina, a restraining order is legally known as a “50B order.” We will gather the necessary evidence of domestic violence, such as threats, physical abuse, or harassment, to present to the judge. We are here to help you seek protection from an abusive partner or family member and provide support during a stressful time.

Family Law Glossary

When working with our Greensboro, NC family law lawyer, it’s important to understand the legal language that may come up in your case. Family law involves rights, responsibilities, and procedures that can significantly impact your future. This glossary outlines several terms that regularly arise in family law proceedings. By understanding these definitions, clients can make more informed decisions when it comes to their legal matters.

Child Custody Arrangement

Child custody refers to the legal determination of how separated or divorced parents will share responsibilities for their child’s care. Custody is typically categorized as either legal or physical. Legal custody involves the authority to make decisions about the child’s education, medical care, and general welfare. Physical custody concerns where the child will live. These may be shared jointly by both parents or awarded to one parent, depending on factors like the child’s needs, each parent’s availability, and the stability of each household. Custody arrangements are enforceable by court order, and either parent may petition to modify the agreement if circumstances change.

In North Carolina, courts prioritize the child’s best interest when determining custody. The judge may evaluate each parent’s relationship with the child, living conditions, history of caregiving, and ability to support a safe and nurturing environment. The final order may also include visitation terms for the non-custodial parent.

Equitable Distribution

Equitable distribution is the legal method North Carolina courts use to divide marital assets and debts during a divorce. It does not mean equal distribution, but rather a fair and just allocation. The court considers factors such as the length of the marriage, income levels, contributions to the marriage, and property each spouse brought into the relationship. Assets commonly divided include real estate, retirement accounts, vehicles, and business interests.

Marital property includes assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property remains with the individual who owned it prior to marriage or received it as a gift or inheritance. Spouses can also reach a private agreement on how to divide assets, which the court may approve as long as it appears fair and reasonable.

Legal Separation Agreement

A legal separation agreement is a private contract between spouses who choose to live apart without ending the marriage. This written document can address issues such as property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. While not required by law in North Carolina, such an agreement helps define each party’s obligations and protect their rights during the separation period.

In North Carolina, spouses must live apart for at least one year and one day before filing for divorce. Having a legal separation agreement in place during this time provides structure and reduces potential disputes. Once both parties sign the agreement and have it notarized, it becomes legally binding and may be used later to support the final divorce decree.

Prenuptial Agreement

A prenuptial agreement (often called a prenup) is a legal contract entered into before marriage that outlines how assets, debts, and financial matters will be handled if the marriage ends in divorce or death. These agreements can clarify each party’s rights and protect individual property. Common provisions include how future income will be treated, responsibility for premarital debts, and protection of family inheritances or business interests.

While prenuptial agreements are often associated with high-net-worth individuals, they can benefit anyone entering a marriage. To be valid, the agreement must be voluntarily signed by both parties, with full disclosure of assets and adequate time for legal review. Courts may refuse to enforce prenups if they appear unconscionable or were signed under duress.

50B Protective Order

A 50B protective order, also known as a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO), is a court-issued order that provides legal protection for individuals experiencing domestic abuse or threats from a current or former intimate partner or family member. It may include restrictions such as prohibiting contact, requiring the abuser to leave a shared residence, or granting temporary custody of children.

To obtain a 50B order in North Carolina, the petitioner must show the court that an act of domestic violence occurred. This includes physical harm, threats, harassment, or sexual assault. The initial order may be granted on an emergency basis, followed by a full hearing within 10 days. If approved, the final order can remain in effect for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal. Violations of a 50B order are criminal offenses and may result in arrest.

Working with our Greensboro, NC family law attorney gives you access to experienced legal guidance in these matters and more. At The Spagnola Law Firm, we apply decades of experience to every case with the goal of helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your family law matter, call us today to schedule a confidential consultation. We’re here to support your legal needs and protect what matters most.

The Spagnola Law Firm, Greensboro Family Law Attorney

441 Battleground Ave B, Greensboro, NC 27401

Call Us Today

Our goal is to help you resolve your family law matters with dignity and as little conflict as possible. We can review your situation and help you create a strategy for a favorable outcome. Please contact our firm today to speak with us about your family’s needs. Our attorney has helped thousands of clients, and while most family matters don’t end up in a courtroom, he also has represented clients in many different trials. Call us today to work with our family lawyer!