What Is a “Simple Divorce” in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, a simple divorce (also called an uncontested divorce) means that both parties agree that the marriage is over, and neither is asking the court to decide issues like property, custody, or support. It's a straightforward legal process — but only if you know the steps.

At Camino Law, we help clients across North Carolina complete their divorce without ever setting foot in court. Whether you want to handle it yourself or have us take care of everything, understanding your options can make the process smoother — and far less stressful.

Can You File for Divorce on Your Own?

Yes, you absolutely can. North Carolina allows individuals to file for divorce pro se — meaning without an attorney.

To do so, you'll need to:

1. Have lived separate and apart for at least one year.

2. File a Complaint for Absolute Divorce in the county where you or your spouse reside.

3. Pay the $225 filing fee (or apply for a fee waiver if you qualify).

4. Serve your spouse through the Sheriff's Office or certified mail.

5. Schedule a short court hearing, usually lasting less than five minutes.

If everything is in order, the judge will sign your Divorce Judgment, officially ending your marriage.

When DIY Divorce Works

Filing on your own might make sense if:

• You have no shared property or debt.

• You don't have minor children together.

• You and your spouse already divided your assets informally.

• You feel confident handling legal paperwork.

Some people simply want closure — and if that's your only goal, self-filing can be an affordable and reasonable choice.

When It's Better to Hire an Attorney

Even a simple divorce can turn complicated if there's anything left to resolve — property, retirement accounts, real estate, or questions about custody.

Hiring a lawyer may be the better choice if:

• You need to divide marital property fairly (called Equitable Distribution).

• You want to waive or preserve rights like alimony or pension division.

• You and your spouse own a home together or have retirement accounts.

• You're unsure how to protect your rights before signing anything.

In these cases, a family law attorney can prepare a Separation Agreement that protects both sides — and still keep things out of court.

How Camino Law Makes Divorce Simple

At Camino Law, we believe divorce doesn't have to be a battle.
We offer affordable options for uncontested divorce anywhere in North Carolina, including:

• Attorney Review (coaching) – for those who want to file independently but need guidance and document review

• Attorney-Assisted Divorce – we prepare all documents, handle filing and service, and you never have to appear in court.

We've helped hundreds of clients end their marriage with dignity and peace of mind — without the drama or expense of litigation.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you're ready to file or just exploring your options, we can help you find the simplest path forward.
👉 Contact us at 336-365-0749

Let's make your next chapter easier to begin.