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
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.
Caleb Mobley
10 months ago
I cannot recommend Janet Gemmell and the entire team at Cape Fear Family Law enough. When I came to them, I was facing a stressful and complicated divorce case involving equitable distribution and child support. From the moment I started working with Janet, I felt a sense of relief and confidence. The entire team—including Cassandra, Kara, and Melissa—was professional, communicative, and tireless in their efforts. They took the time to explain every detail, from the complexities of the Equitable Distribution Spreadsheet to the ongoing negotiations for child support and alimony. They were always responsive and kept me in the loop on every development, which made a world of difference. Ultimately, Janet and the team guided me to a successful resolution. Signing the final Consent Order felt like a huge weight was lifted, and I am completely satisfied with the services they provided. If you need a dedicated, knowledgeable, and effective team for a family law matter, look no further than Cape Fear Family Law. They are truly the best in the business.
Stephen Chance
6 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!
Allie Moore is truly an incredible lawyer and a wonderful person. From the moment I reached out to her, she treated me with kindness, patience, and respect. She took the time to really listen to my concerns and walked me through everything step by step, always making sure I understood and felt supported. Her dedication to my case and genuine care for my well-being went far beyond what I ever expected. Allie made me feel like I wasn’t just a client, but someone she truly cared about. I can’t thank her enough for all she’s done, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone who needs not just an excellent lawyer, but also a compassionate advocate.
Ken Licata
1 year ago
My wife and myself can’t speak highly enough about Kayleigh Davenport and her staff at Cape Fear Family Law. They’ve been there every step of the way, keeping us informed of the status and goings on during the adoption of our two grandsons. Kayleigh and CFFL are fantastic!!
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. ⚖️
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**
Bill Mathias
1 year ago
Janet is definitely, by far, the best attorney I have ever dealt with. She is patient, courteous, competent, and cares about her clients and time. Thank you for everything Janet
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! ✨
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! 💙
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 416 reviews
Samantha Gurganus
2 months ago
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I highly recommend Erica Benson and the entire Cape Fear Family Law team in Jacksonville. Erica, Paige, Grace, and everyone in the office were professional, responsive, compassionate, and truly cared about my case from beginning to end. Family law isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of a good time, but this team made a difficult process much easier to navigate. They kept me informed, answered my questions, and were always kind and supportive. Thank you all for helping me close this chapter of my life with confidence and peace of mind.
Heather Rock
12 months ago
Working with Jessica and Conner is definitely Gods way of sending you strong angels to help me through a very stressful time. Hire them and you will see I promise.
Justin B
5 months ago
Ashly F. went above and beyond outside of business hours to get me the paperwork I needed promptly.
Aaron Telles
1 year ago
Professional and gave me a down to earth assessment as to the outcome of my case and got the results I wanted
Diane Ceron
8 months ago
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 8 reviews
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! ✨
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! 💙
Bill Mathias
1 year ago
Janet is definitely, by far, the best attorney I have ever dealt with. She is patient, courteous, competent, and cares about her clients and time. Thank you for everything Janet
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**
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. ⚖️
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!

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Latest Blog Posts

A Child Was Left at My House and DSS Was Never Involved. Do I Have Any Rights?

If a child was left in your care and no court or DSS was ever involved, here is the hard truth

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)

“We would recommend him to anyone.” 💚When a custody case comes with difficult circumstances, having an attorney who listens, communicates clearly, and genuinely understands your situation matters.Melanie A. shared her experience working with Attorney Marcus Tingling, highlighting his professionalism, honesty, empathy, and commitment throughout her family’s case.
We’re grateful for her trust and for taking the time to share her story.If you’re facing a custody matter in North Carolina, we’re here to help you understand your options.📍 Wilmington | Durham | Jacksonville | Raleigh#CapeFearFamilyLaw #MarcusTingling #ClientTestimonial #ChildCustody #NCFamilyLaw #FamilyLaw
Part 3 🎥 Introducing a new partner to your kids?There's no rush to meet them. And once they do, dating partner ≠ parent. Boundaries first, always. 🎙️#FamilyLaw #CoParenting #CustodyCase #BlendedFamily #WilmingtonNCThis video is perfect for anyone facing the challenges of post-separation dating and co-parenting. Join us as we provide guidance for fostering healthy relationships without compromising your child's emotional stability. Ensure you’re equipped to make informed decisions on relationship introductions while protecting your child’s interests.
Can a grandparent get custody in North Carolina?Yes, but the path is narrow.Before a court can ask what's best for the child, you have to prove the parents are unfit or have acted inconsistently with their protected parental status. Being the better option isn't the legal question.Custody and visitation are also two separate claims with different rules. Confusing them can cost months.If you're a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or caregiver worried about a child, timing matters. Board-Certified Family Law Specialist Janet L. Gemmell breaks down what North Carolina law actually requires.Read the full post: Link in bio.#NorthCarolinaFamilyLaw #GrandparentCustody #NCCustody #CapeFearFamilyLaw #Wilmington #Durham #Jacksonville
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