What to Do After Being Served with Divorce Papers: A Legal Professional's Guide for North Carolina Residents

July 24, 2023

What to Do After Being Served with Divorce Papers: A Legal Professional's Guide for North Carolina Residents

Receiving papers that you are being served with divorce papers is never easy. It can be an emotional and overwhelming experience that can leave you feeling anxious about what comes next. As a legal professional at The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC, I'm here to help guide you step-by-step through the process. In this blog post, I will discuss what you should do after being served with divorce papers if you're a North Carolina resident.


Read the Divorce Papers Carefully



It is important to read the papers carefully and not rush through them. You need to make sure you understand what they say before moving on to the next step. The documents typically include a cover sheet, complaint or petition, summons, and a notice of hearing. These documents will outline the reasons for the divorce, the spouse's requests, and the date and time of the hearing.


Do Not Ignore the Summons


You need to respond to the summons within a certain time frame. Failing to respond to the divorce papers may result in an automatic divorce granted to your spouse. It is best to seek legal advice and respond to the papers in a timely manner, even if you do not agree with the request made by your spouse.


Seek Legal Advice


It is crucial to seek professional legal advice as soon as possible after being served with divorce papers. A lawyer who specializes in divorce law can guide you through the process, tell you what rights you have, and what action needs to be taken in a timely manner. A lawyer can also offer suggestions regarding strategies to protect your rights, assets, and interests.


Organize Your Financial Records


A divorce typically involves dividing assets and debts. It is important to have a clear picture of your financial situation. You will need to gather all financial documents, including bank statements, credit card statements, tax returns, vehicle registrations, mortgage statements, and investment documents to help you understand the state of your finances. You may also need to work with a financial professional to develop a plan for your finances following the divorce.


Attend the Hearing


If both parties cannot resolve issues in mediation, a hearing will be scheduled. You should attend the hearing, even if you do not have legal representation, to better understand the proceedings. It is a good idea to be respectful and courteous throughout, and make sure to listen carefully to what is being said. The judge will consider evidence and statements from both parties and make a decision on issues such as alimony, child custody, and property division.


Being served with divorce papers can be overwhelming, however, hiring a professional legal expert is key to helping you make the best decisions for you and your family. At The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC, we are committed to providing expert legal service to North Carolina residents throughout the divorce process. We hope that the tips outlined in this blog post will help you understand what to do after being served with divorce papers. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our experienced divorce attorneys.


A scale of justice is sitting on a wooden table next to a judge 's gavel.
June 20, 2025
Discover the key factors that determine alimony awards in North Carolina divorce cases. Learn how courts assess income, marriage duration, misconduct, and more. Serving Hickory, The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC can help you understand your rights.
A small white house with a red door and a white picket fence.
May 22, 2025
Learn how North Carolina’s real estate disclosure laws affect home sales. The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC helps Hickory residents understand their rights and avoid legal issues.
A large house with a lot of windows and a garage on a rainy day.
April 29, 2025
Who gets the house in a North Carolina divorce? Learn how equitable distribution works and how The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC helps Hickory residents navigate property division.
A single red rose is sitting on top of a gravestone.
March 20, 2025
Wondering what happens if you die without a will in North Carolina? Learn how intestate succession works and why estate planning matters. The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC helps Peoria families navigate the legal process.
February 19, 2025
What Happens When a Parent Violates a Custody Agreement in North Carolina?
January 22, 2025
What is the Difference Between a Will and a Trust in North Carolina?
January 22, 2025
What to Do After Being Served with Divorce Papers in North Carolina
January 22, 2025
What Are the Consequences of Failing to Pay Spousal Support in North Carolina?
October 31, 2024
What Are the Documents Required to Create a Prenuptial Agreement in North Carolina?
September 23, 2024
Going through a divorce is never easy, and when it comes to contested divorces, the process can become even more challenging. If you are a North Carolina resident facing a contested divorce, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for legal assistance. That's where The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC comes in. With years of experience handling contested divorces, they have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through this difficult time.  Contested divorces occur when spouses cannot agree on key issues such as division of assets, child custody, or spousal support. This can lead to lengthy court battles and increased stress for all parties involved. The attorneys at The Stiltner Law Firm understand the complexities of contested divorces and work diligently to protect their clients' interests throughout the process. They will advocate on your behalf in negotiations and in court if necessary to ensure that your rights are protected. One of the key advantages of working with The Stiltner Law Firm is their personalized approach to each case. They understand that every divorce is unique and requires a tailored strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. By taking the time to listen to your concerns and goals, they will develop a comprehensive legal strategy that aligns with your needs. In addition to their personalized approach, The Stiltner Law Firm also offers compassionate support to their clients during this emotional time. They understand that going through a divorce is not just a legal matter but also an emotional one. Their team will provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate this challenging process with confidence. When you choose The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC as your contested divorce attorney, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands. Their experienced attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf to achieve a favorable outcome while minimizing stress and conflict along the way. Whether you are facing issues related to child custody, property division, or alimony, they have the skills and resources necessary to help you move forward with your life. Facing a contested divorce can be overwhelming, but with the right legal representation by your side, you can navigate this challenging process with confidence. The Stiltner Law Firm, PLLC offers North Carolina residents experienced legal counsel combined with compassionate support throughout every step of the journey. If you are in need of a contested divorces attorney who will fight for your rights and prioritize your best interests, look no further than The Stiltner Law Firm. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step towards securing a brighter future for yourself and your family.
More Posts