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 277 reviews
Mandy Whaley
2 months ago
Melissa Bradnick was professional, knowledgeable, and supportive throughout the entire process. She communicated clearly, answered my questions promptly, and helped make a difficult situation much less stressful. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a compassionate and effective divorce attorney.
Ryan Lewis
1 year ago
I was unable to get any calls back from attorneys more local to me, but Cape Fear Family Law was very responsive. I had the honor of working with Kayleigh and she was able to coordinate a video call and all of the responses from her and her team were prompt and polite. Hopefully I never have to use them again, but Kayleigh will be the first one I call if I ever do!
RJ Moore
8 months ago
I can’t recommend Matthew Geiger highly enough. He and his team did a phenomenal job guiding me through my divorce and made what could have been an overwhelming process feel straightforward and manageable. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail gave me confidence every step of the way. I’m incredibly grateful for their support and expertise, and I would strongly recommend them to anyone needing a knowledgeable and compassionate advocate.
Stephen Chance
5 months ago
Going through a custody case was very stressful, but Waneta Ellis and the rest of the staff there made the process much easier. Very responsive and informative, and genuinely cared about the outcome for my family. Could not be more satisfied!
Chyeanne Flores
7 months ago
Conner Green has been amazing, understanding, helpful, knowledgeable and flexible to work with.
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 8 reviews
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!
Cristina Leone
2 years ago
Mark was super amazing! He was clear & answered all of my questions...it felt so comfortable discussing with him about everything
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We love hearing that Marcus made you feel comfortable and supported – that’s exactly what we strive for with every client. His clear communication and approachable style really shine, and we’re so glad he could be there to answer all your questions and guide you through it all. Wishing you all the best moving forward, and if you ever need us again, you know where to find us – Marcus will be ready to help! 💙
Ellen Snyder
1 year 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
5 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**
Dallisha Rogers
1 year ago
Marcus Tingling was my lawyer and he won my case. He was very patient and he cared for me and my situation. Me and my family are Greatful for everything he has done for us!
Response from the owner:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our hearts are full reading this! 💙 Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! Knowing that Marcus not only won your case but also showed you the patience and genuine care you deserved during what was likely a challenging time - that's everything to us! 🙌 What really stands out is how you felt truly CARED for throughout the process. That's not always easy to find, and it speaks volumes about the kind of person you are that you recognized and appreciated Marcus's dedication to you and your family. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✨ We're absolutely thrilled that we could be part of your victory! 🎉 But honestly? Clients like you - who show gratitude and take time to acknowledge good work - make Marcus's job so much more meaningful. You're the reason he loves what he does! Your family's gratitude means more than you know, and we're just so honored we could help during an important chapter of your lives. 🏆 Wishing you and your entire family continued success, happiness, and all the wonderful things life has to offer! You deserve every bit of good fortune coming your way! 🌟🚀 Keep that amazing spirit of gratitude - it's going to take you far! With heartfelt appreciation, The Team 💙 P.S. - Marcus is beaming and says working with families like yours reminds him why he became a lawyer in the first place! 😊
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 416 reviews
Dale Taylor
2 years ago
My alimony/pss/ed case has been weighing heavy on me for almost a year. I was dreading today. Erica made the mediation go exponentially better than I thought it would. She got me a good deal with no alimony. I highly recommend her and will do so when the opportunity arises. Many thanks to Erica and her team. I can start living a normal life again.
Dallisha Rogers
1 year ago
Marcus Tingling was my lawyer and he won my case. He was very patient and he cared for me and my situation. Me and my family are Greatful for everything he has done for us!
Chris Vandiford
1 year ago
The team was very professional and empathetic to my situation. Fortunately prior to executing my separation agreement my wife and I decided to reconcile. Ashley was very encouraging of this. This firm was great to work with.
Liz Mantooth
2 years ago
Roy Jacobs handled my legal matters with such professionalism. He ALWAYS had my best interest at the forefront of his advice and when he represented on my behalf. I have used him over the course of about 3yrs and he never fails to return emails and calls promptly, with a willingness to help in any way he can. Thank you Mr. Jacobs, for everything!
Amber Hodges
1 year ago
I'd give 10 stars to Janet and her amazing team! Connor Green was the perfect lawyer for my child custody case. Connor was amazing throughout this challenging process! Always keeping his eye on the prize and never allowed the opposing counsel to intimidate us! He was so focused, persistence and professional- following the law and keeping my autistic son's best interest at heart from start to finish! Because of this I never had to go to trial, and I got what I wanted out of my child custody case! Janet and Connor kept me in check during the craziest time of my life by being consistent!! The team is informative, professional and gave me 110%. Connor is unlike any other lawyer while at our calendar call, he was the only lawyer that was present in the moment and kept his phone in his pocket when he was talking to me! My first lawyer never did this let alone gave me their full attention! DO NOT WASTE your money on any other lawyer! If you want a lawyer that will fight for not only you but have the best interest of your child, while following the letter of the law, then you need to hire Janet and her team and ask for Connor Green!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 8 reviews
Ellen Snyder
1 year 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. ⚖️
Cristina Leone
2 years ago
Mark was super amazing! He was clear & answered all of my questions...it felt so comfortable discussing with him about everything
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊 We love hearing that Marcus made you feel comfortable and supported – that’s exactly what we strive for with every client. His clear communication and approachable style really shine, and we’re so glad he could be there to answer all your questions and guide you through it all. Wishing you all the best moving forward, and if you ever need us again, you know where to find us – Marcus will be ready to help! 💙
Dallisha Rogers
1 year ago
Marcus Tingling was my lawyer and he won my case. He was very patient and he cared for me and my situation. Me and my family are Greatful for everything he has done for us!
Response from the owner:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our hearts are full reading this! 💙 Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! Knowing that Marcus not only won your case but also showed you the patience and genuine care you deserved during what was likely a challenging time - that's everything to us! 🙌 What really stands out is how you felt truly CARED for throughout the process. That's not always easy to find, and it speaks volumes about the kind of person you are that you recognized and appreciated Marcus's dedication to you and your family. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦✨ We're absolutely thrilled that we could be part of your victory! 🎉 But honestly? Clients like you - who show gratitude and take time to acknowledge good work - make Marcus's job so much more meaningful. You're the reason he loves what he does! Your family's gratitude means more than you know, and we're just so honored we could help during an important chapter of your lives. 🏆 Wishing you and your entire family continued success, happiness, and all the wonderful things life has to offer! You deserve every bit of good fortune coming your way! 🌟🚀 Keep that amazing spirit of gratitude - it's going to take you far! With heartfelt appreciation, The Team 💙 P.S. - Marcus is beaming and says working with families like yours reminds him why he became a lawyer in the first place! 😊
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!
Justin B
5 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**
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) 858-2744

RALEIGH OFFICE

Cape Fear Family Law – Raleigh
4601 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 3B
Raleigh NC 27607
(919) 925-4199

FAX

(877) 848-4028

Contact Us Today!

Your Name(Required)

Latest Blog Posts

Can Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, or Other Non-Parents Get Custody in North Carolina?

Can grandparents get custody in NC? The honest answer: only by proving unfitness or conduct inconsistent with parental status. Custody and visitation rules explained.

Who Pays for School Sports, Photos, Field Trips, and Fees in North Carolina?

A Board-Certified NC family law specialist breaks down what child support already covers versus what counts as an “extraordinary expense”

How Do You Prepare With Your Attorney for Financial Mediation in North Carolina?

When people hear the word “mediation,” they usually picture a single long day sitting in a neutral conference room.

What Should I Bring to Mediation in North Carolina?

The Complete List (Including What to Pack for the Kids)

Who should be on my child’s school emergency contact form after separation?

When parents separate, the annual back-to-school paperwork routine transforms from a mundane administrative task into a high-stakes legal battleground.

Could dating someone new affect your custody case? 👀It’s not always as simple as “I’m separated, so I’m free to date.”When children are involved, a new relationship can bring big emotions, confusion, and changes to the family dynamic—especially while the divorce is still ongoing.In Part 2, we’re talking about what children may experience when a parent starts dating before the divorce is finalized.🎥 Watch Part 2 and follow us for Part 3!#ChildCustody #Divorce #FamilyLaw #CoParenting #CustodyTips #DivorceTips #ParentingAfterDivorce #Separation #NorthCarolinaFamilyLaw
Navigating the complexities of custody disputes can be challenging, especially when new relationships enter the picture. In this video, family law board-certified expert Janet Gemmell addresses a critical question: Can dating someone new impact your custody case?
An emergency custody order isn't the finish line — it's a pause button.When a judge signs off on an emergency form, it's meant to address immediate danger. It's temporary by design. It doesn't decide where your kids live long-term, who makes decisions for them, or what your parenting time looks like going forward.That part still has to go through the court. And if you don't follow up, that "temporary" order can expire — leaving you back where you started, or worse.If you're navigating an emergency custody situation, don't stop at the paperwork. Talk to us about what comes next.Schedule a consultation: Link in bio.