Going through a divorce is one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a person can face. At Hefferon Law, we understand that no two families — and no two divorces — are the same. North Carolina law reflects that reality by offering different types of divorce with different grounds and requirements. Having a compassionate, experienced attorney in your corner means you can feel confident that you're pursuing the right path for your unique situation.
North Carolina's Two Types of Divorce
North Carolina recognizes two types of divorce: absolute divorce and divorce from bed and board. An absolute divorce is the legal end of a marriage, finalized through a divorce decree. It addresses important matters like child custody, division of assets, and spousal support. The grounds for absolute divorce are limited to two: incurable insanity or a one-year separation.
Divorce from bed and board is different — it's not a true divorce, but rather a court-ordered legal separation. It covers many of the same issues as an absolute divorce, but it has five distinct grounds that recognize the very real and painful ways a marriage can break down.
Five Grounds for Divorce from Bed and Board
Abandonment, Desertion, or Turning Out
This ground applies when one spouse abandons the family, forces the other spouse out of the home, or leaves suddenly without justification or the other spouse's consent. Being left without warning — or being pushed out of your own home — is a serious matter, and the law recognizes it.
Cruel or Barbarous Treatment
When one spouse's behavior endangers the life or physical well-being of the other, that conduct can form the basis for a divorce from bed and board. This most commonly involves physical violence, though it isn't limited to it. No one should have to remain in a situation that threatens their safety.
Indignities
Sometimes the harm isn't physical — it's the slow erosion of dignity that makes staying in a marriage unbearable. This "catch-all" ground covers behavior that renders a spouse's situation intolerable and burdensome, including persistent humiliation, ongoing verbal abuse, and repeated false accusations of adultery. You deserve to be treated with respect, and the law provides recourse when that isn't happening.
Drug or Alcohol Abuse
When a spouse's excessive use of drugs or alcohol makes the home environment intolerable for the other spouse, a divorce from bed and board may be appropriate. Living in the shadow of addiction is exhausting and painful, and you don't have to face it alone.
Adultery
If one spouse can demonstrate that the other committed adultery, that can serve as grounds for a divorce from bed and board. Building a case around this ground can be complex, but an experienced North Carolina divorce attorney can help you navigate what evidence is needed and how to present it.
We're Here to Help You Take the Next Step
Whether you're considering an absolute divorce or a divorce from bed and board, we know how overwhelming this time can feel. At Hefferon Law, we take the time to truly listen to your situation, explain your options clearly, and stand by your side as you make decisions that will shape your family's future. You are never just a case number to us.
If you're ready to talk, we're here. Reach out to Hefferon Law today to schedule a consultation. You can call us at 704-610-4795, email us at info@hefflawpllc.com, or visit us online at hefflawpllc.com. Taking that first step is never easy — but you don't have to take it alone.
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