Jennifer Hames

Divorce does more than separate two people, it also untangles the financial ties that held a marriage together. For many couples, one spouse has earned significantly more than the other, creating questions about how both individuals will support themselves once the marriage ends. In North Carolina, spousal support, commonly known as alimony, is designed to […]

Divorce is one of the most difficult transitions a family can face. Beyond the legal paperwork, it brings emotional strain, financial challenges, and uncertainty about the future. Couples often feel overwhelmed by the weight of dividing assets, determining custody, and redefining their lives. For children, the conflict and tension surrounding divorce can be especially damaging.

When same-sex marriage became legal in North Carolina in 2014, with the nation ruling following shortly after, it marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ families across the state. Marriage equality meant that same-sex couples could marry and begin to enjoy many of the same rights as heterosexual couples. However, child custody laws have not always

Domestic violence is never just a private matter, it’s a serious legal issue that impacts safety, emotional well-being, and family stability. If you or someone you love is experiencing abuse, knowing how North Carolina law defines domestic violence is the first step toward protection and empowerment. At Lincolnton Family Law, we recognize the courage it

One of the most difficult aspects of separation or divorce is determining child custody. As a parent, you want what’s best for your child, and when they express a desire to live with one parent over the other, it’s natural to wonder how much say they actually have. Can a child choose which parent to

For many blended families, adopting a stepchild is more than just a legal formality, it’s an expression of love, commitment, and belonging. If you have been raising your spouse’s child as your own, you may want to take the legal step of becoming their official parent. In North Carolina, stepchild adoption creates the same legal

Family law matters are deeply personal. Whether you are going through a divorce, navigating child custody arrangements, or seeking protection from domestic violence, the outcome will shape the future of your family. In moments like these, you need more than just a lawyer, you need an advocate who understands your struggles, protects your rights, and

Divorce is one of life’s most emotionally complex transitions. Even when it’s the healthiest, safest, or most necessary decision, ending a marriage can feel like stepping into unfamiliar terrain. You may be overwhelmed with legal decisions, financial uncertainty, or fear about what lies ahead. On top of that, you’re navigating a deeply personal loss; the

Social media has become a central part of how we communicate, share our lives, and stay connected. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) offer a space to express ourselves—whether it’s posting a family update, venting frustration, or finding support from friends. But during a divorce, that same expressive outlet can quickly become

When you’re thinking about divorce, fear can be a powerful force. It can whisper in your ear late at night, make you second-guess your instincts, and keep you locked in a situation that no longer serves you. Much of that fear comes not from facts—but from long-standing myths. These myths are often passed down from