Our Story

Our Mission

We want to:

  • Listen to each client
  • Provide individualized legal advice
  • Effectively handle legal and financial decisions
  • Keep family dynamics in mind
  • Maintain cost effective fees with the client in mind

Four convenient locations:

  • Durham, NC
  • Jacksonville, NC
  • Raleigh, NC
  • Wilmington, NC
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Wilmington4.7
Based on 278 reviews
Erika Zaragoza
2 weeks ago
Grasias por su exelente trabajo a cape fear family low me brindo un trabajo exceptional en todo momento muchas grasias
Jody Clark
1 year ago
Kayleigh Davenport recently represented me in a complicated, what felt like ever changing legal matter. Due to the circumstances of my case, it took nearly 8 months to resolve. I have had other attorney’s in the past and can say one of the things that set Kayleigh apart is that she genuinely listened to what I wanted to get accomplished. Without going into detail, what I wanted evolved over time and instead of feeling pressured by her, she made me feel confident in my own decisions. Her office was transparent from the beginning what the cost was going to be so there was not confusion. I highly recommend Kayleigh to anyone seeking a family law attorney!!!
Kenneth Bordeaux
8 months ago
Connors Green and the team at Cape Fear Family Law did an excellent job communicating and engaging when it came to work on my seperation agreement. I have been very satisfied with their work on my case.
Mariana Godwin
11 months ago
Janet is wonderful. Brilliant and responds quickly.
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Ellen Snyder
12 months ago
Each person I spoke with genuinely listened to me and my goals. Answered questions readily. These folks are top notch and I wouldn’t hesitate to contact them in the future.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that our team took the time to listen, answer your questions, and support your goals every step of the way. At Cape Fear Family Law, genuine connection and clear communication are at the heart of what we do. We truly appreciate your trust and look forward to being here for you anytime you need us in the future. ⚖️
Justin B
4 months ago
Ashly F. went above and beyond outside of business hours to get me the paperwork I needed promptly.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the review! We truly appreciate you taking the time to highlight the hard work Ashly Futch put in for you. Ashly is a total rockstar on the **#BestTeaminLegal**, and we are so glad she was there to get you across the finish line! We often tell her that the "business hours" sign on the front door is more of a "suggestion" to her when a client is in need, but seeing her dedication recognized like this means the world to us. We’re starting to suspect she might actually be powered by a secret, high-grade espresso machine ☕️ we haven't found yet! At Cape Fear Family Law, our "We Take Care" mission means doing whatever it takes to ensure our clients feel supported, even when the sun goes down. Now that the paperwork is off your plate and in the right hands, we hope you can finally breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy some well-deserved peace of mind! **#BestTeaminLegal**
Spencer Hodges
1 year ago
Response from the owner:Thank you!
Dora Rose
2 years ago
Kayleigh and her team were so helpful and fast to respond when I needed them! So glad I picked them for my separation/divorce!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We're so happy to hear that we were able to help you during such a difficult time - we love being there when a client needs us! It was truly our pleasure working with you, and we appreciate your trust in Kayleigh and our enitre team. We wish you all the best for a bright future! ✨
Marcus was responsive, courteous and professional
Response from the owner:I love hearing about any of our team being responsive and courteous, much less professional - of course I EXPECT it of Marcus, because it's part of his character - but I love hearing about!!! Thanks for the review and wishing you all the best in your future!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 418 reviews
mallory gould
1 year ago
So apparently Cape Fear Law Firm has a good reputation. We must have been given the worst attorney in the bunch. Our experience with Melenni Balbach was horrible. This law firm robbed us for $16k. We retained her in Sept. 2024 and my bf was given visitation with his daughter in Dec. 2024 which was great and then from then on it was downhill. The mother wouldn’t cooperate and Melenni wrote a motion for contempt. It is now August 2025 and he still hasn’t seen his daughter. She didn’t fight for him. She def didn’t have her client’s back! She wanted to continue to write motions that = money! Motions for what? The most important one is contempt and she should have fought for an emergency mtg w the judge. She and her team also wrote 4 letters to opposing counsel and NOTHING was followed up or done with those 4 letters that cost money. I would NOT recommend this firm. We have since asked for funds returned for work not rendered. They are giving the sob story. We have since secured another legal counsel. Had to click one star in order to post! I give them a negative star! There is so much more to this story. I’m just warning you go elsewhere.
Dakota Doherty
1 year ago
This is the only law firm I would trust in Onslow county. Roy Jacobs has worked multiple aspects of my case from divorce to child custody spanning a 3 1/2 year period. We had a very difficult case to work and had to take the lead and push the fight in every area. Roy and his team answered the call and are the team that truly comes prepared to win. Each time we had to go to trial, which was several, Roy was able to deliver and we came out on top. Communication with Roy and his team was always timely and within reason. All my questions were answered whenever I had any. Roy will not sugar coat anything either, he will be very candid and give you the situation like it is offering great legal counsel but allowing you to make the ultimate decision. That is how an attorney should be. If you want to be successful, prepare to be part of the team as well and roll up your sleeves, no one knows your own situation like you do. Give them the best effort you can and they will return the favor! So, if you want a trusted, experienced, calm under fire legal team, who has your best interests at heart. Then look no further than Roy Jacobs and the staff at Cape Fear Family Law in Jacksonville!
Leslie Slotter
2 months ago
My divorce and equitable distribution case was one of the most difficult experiences of my life after nearly 39 years of marriage. The process was lengthy, emotional, and made even more challenging by a very difficult and high-conflict opposing party. There were times when I felt frustrated, overwhelmed, and impatient with the pace of the process. I was fighting for my future and often dealing with anger, fear, and uncertainty. Through those difficult moments, Allie Moore remained steady, professional, and focused. She knew when to listen, when to reassure me, and when to help me see the bigger picture. Like any long and complex case, there were decisions made along the way that I did not always agree with, and there were times I wished communication had been better. However, I appreciated that concerns I raised were addressed fairly. In particular, when issues arose regarding fees related to matters I felt were not handled appropriately, those concerns were heard and resolved. What stands out most is the outcome. Allie remained committed to achieving a fair result and helped me navigate an incredibly challenging legal situation. Her knowledge, professionalism, and ability to stay focused despite the emotions involved were invaluable. No attorney can remove the pain of divorce, but having someone who can guide you through the process and advocate for you effectively makes a tremendous difference. I am grateful for the final outcome and for Allie's efforts in helping me move forward into the next chapter of my life.
Brandon Futch
2 years ago
The triangle area has some great attorneys here.
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Spencer Hodges
1 year ago
Response from the owner:Thank you!
Ellen Snyder
12 months ago
Each person I spoke with genuinely listened to me and my goals. Answered questions readily. These folks are top notch and I wouldn’t hesitate to contact them in the future.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that our team took the time to listen, answer your questions, and support your goals every step of the way. At Cape Fear Family Law, genuine connection and clear communication are at the heart of what we do. We truly appreciate your trust and look forward to being here for you anytime you need us in the future. ⚖️
Dora Rose
2 years ago
Kayleigh and her team were so helpful and fast to respond when I needed them! So glad I picked them for my separation/divorce!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We're so happy to hear that we were able to help you during such a difficult time - we love being there when a client needs us! It was truly our pleasure working with you, and we appreciate your trust in Kayleigh and our enitre team. We wish you all the best for a bright future! ✨
Justin B
4 months ago
Ashly F. went above and beyond outside of business hours to get me the paperwork I needed promptly.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for the review! We truly appreciate you taking the time to highlight the hard work Ashly Futch put in for you. Ashly is a total rockstar on the **#BestTeaminLegal**, and we are so glad she was there to get you across the finish line! We often tell her that the "business hours" sign on the front door is more of a "suggestion" to her when a client is in need, but seeing her dedication recognized like this means the world to us. We’re starting to suspect she might actually be powered by a secret, high-grade espresso machine ☕️ we haven't found yet! At Cape Fear Family Law, our "We Take Care" mission means doing whatever it takes to ensure our clients feel supported, even when the sun goes down. Now that the paperwork is off your plate and in the right hands, we hope you can finally breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy some well-deserved peace of mind! **#BestTeaminLegal**
Marcus was responsive, courteous and professional
Response from the owner:I love hearing about any of our team being responsive and courteous, much less professional - of course I EXPECT it of Marcus, because it's part of his character - but I love hearing about!!! Thanks for the review and wishing you all the best in your future!
Cape Fear Family Law | Divorce Attorney Jacksonville NC – Divorce Lawyer Reviews

Our Core Values

Knowledgeable

Knowledgeable

We know what to do and we actively share our knowledge.

Integrity

Integrity

Honesty in action and a good moral compass.

Empathetic

Empathetic

Active understanding without judgment.

Accountable

Accountable

To yourself, your clients, your colleagues and the court.

Areas Of Practice

Child custody and visitation are two of the most important issues that stem from a relationship failing, but they are not the only issues. Often with relationship dissolution the financial tensions are extreme. Managing retirement division through equitable distribution and cash flow between two homes through alimony is fraught with conflict. We take care to guide clients through the legal landscape, out of court negotiations, and in court processes that sometimes are needed when parties cannot agree.

Services We Provide

Cape Fear Family Law | Divorce Attorney Jacksonville NC Wilmington NC

Divorce

When a marriage ends, legal issues immediately arise. Getting strong legal advice is the only option.

Cape Fear Family Law | Children Child Custody Child Support Attorney Wilmington NC Wilmington NC

Children

They are the most important thing in your life. Let us help you protect what you love.

Cape Fear Family Law | Children Adoption in North Carolina

Adoption

There are multiple types of adoption available. We can help you navigate through the process.

Meet Our Team

Find an attorney in your North Carolina County

Select the North Carolina County that your case will be filed in to see which of our attorneys practice within your county. Then choose a lawyer form the list to read more about each attorney.

Let's Connect

WILMINGTON OFFICE

Cape Fear Family Law – Wilmington
5101 Dunlea Court, Suite 202
Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 210-0349

JACKSONVILLE OFFICE

Cape Fear Family Law – Jacksonville
222 New Bridge Street
Jacksonville, NC 28540
(910) 202-4063

DURHAM OFFICE

Cape Fear Family Law – Durham
3917 University Drive, Suite 250
Durham, NC 27707
(919) 342-4949

RALEIGH OFFICE

Cape Fear Family Law – Raleigh
4601 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 3B
Raleigh NC 27607
(919) 342-4949

FAX

(877) 848-4028

Contact Us Today!

Your Name(Required)

Latest Blog Posts

Enforcement and Arrears in NC

What Actually Happens When Your Ex Stops Paying Child Support?

Does 50/50 Custody Eliminate Child Support in NC?

(Spoiler: No — Here’s the Math)

Move-Away Custody in North Carolina

Why You Ask Permission, Not Forgiveness

Called a “Narcissist” in Your NC Custody Case?

What the Court Actually Weighs — and How to Protect Your Kids

Relocation in a North Carolina Custody Case

Ask Permission, Not Forgiveness — and How the Parent Left Behind Can Win Big Blocks of Time and Lower Child Support

Child support decisions should be guided by facts, not assumptions. When parents understand how child support is actually calculated, they can focus on practical solutions, clearer expectations, and their child’s well-being.If you have questions about child support or your next legal steps, get strong legal advice tailored to your family’s situation.📍 Serving Wilmington, Durham, Jacksonville, & Raleigh
🔗 www.capefearfamilylaw.com#ChildSupport #FamilyLaw #NorthCarolinaFamilyLaw #ChildSupportGuidelines #CoParenting #LegalGuidance
Navigating the emotional landscape of divorce can be challenging, especially when communication with an ex becomes heated. In this insightful video, your trusted Board Certified Family Law Specialist, Janet Gemmell, shares important advice on maintaining respectful communication during tumultuous times.#AngerManagement #DivorceAdvice #LegalTips #RespectfulCommunication #TextingEtiquette
Relocation doesn't have a self-evident impact on a child. The law makes the moving parent prove their case. #FathersRights #MothersRights #CustodyModification #NCCourts #RelocationCustody #CapeFearFamilyLaw
Today, we celebrate the incredible paralegals who help keep everything moving behind the scenes.From organizing complex cases and supporting our attorneys to guiding clients through difficult moments with compassion and care, your dedication makes a meaningful difference every single day.To our amazing paralegals at Cape Fear Family Law—thank you for your hard work, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our clients and our team.Happy Paralegal Day! 💚⚖️#HappyParalegalDay #CapeFearFamilyLaw #ThankYouParalegals #LegalTeam #FamilyLaw
💬 **We see this every summer...**One parent gets a job opportunity.
The other worries about losing time with their child.Relocation cases are rarely just about moving—they're about protecting your child's routine, preserving meaningful parenting time, and making decisions that serve their best interests.If a move could affect your custody arrangement, don't wait until the moving truck is in the driveway.⚖️ A conversation today can help prevent an emergency tomorrow.#ChildCustody #Relocation #CoParenting #NorthCarolinaLaw #FamilyLaw #CapeFearFamilyLaw