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
Top rated
Cape Fear Family Law - Wilmington4.7
Based on 278 reviews
Matt Wooten
1 year ago
Would highly recommend CFFL! The entire office staff, support team, and especially Matt Greiger were more than just legal help during a very difficult family case. Matt is extremely knowledgeable, strategic, and is focused on winning for his clients. What was even more impressive was his support team and the office as their empathy, compassion, and understanding throughout the entire process was over the top!
Kyle Varoskovic
6 months ago
Great experience working with Allie! Additional staff was helpful too.
Caleb Mobley
11 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.
Deirdre Kelly
9 months ago
I highly recommend Justin and Cape Fear Family Law as ethical, knowledgeable and supportive. Justin was incredibly helpful during a time where I needed unfiltered, factual advice. His patience through the experience was so appreciated, giving me the time I needed to decide the direction I wanted to take.
Elijah Harrington
6 months ago
Granger and the team at Cape Fear Family Law handled my divorce case with the dignity, professionalism, and expertise that I had hoped for when choosing to work with him. He took the time to understand my case, routinely review and discuss strategy and "next steps," and he and the team kept me up-to-date informed on court and mediation dates, filings, etc. I'll go back to Granger in the future, if and when the need arises.
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!
Spencer Hodges
2 years ago
Response from the owner:Thank you!
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. ⚖️
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! 😊
Justin B
6 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**
Top rated
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 418 reviews
Mariana Godwin
1 year ago
Janet is wonderful. Brilliant and responds quickly.
Jeff Thigpen
4 months ago
Marcus Tingling was very easy going, easy to talk to, responsive and extremely helpful during my divorce process as the defendant. He provided lots of info along every step of the way and answered every question I had. I could've done it on my own, but I wanted to make sure everything was done correctly and legally, and Marcus handled it all. Sometimes the responses were a little slow, but I understand I'm not the only client or case they have at any given time. Marcus made the court appearance smooth and pleasant and was beyond helpful throughout the whole process.
taylor wuerth
1 year ago
Leaving 5 stars as Marcus and his team did a great job for my divorce process. Any questions or concerns I had got back to me in a timely manner and explained everything in great detail. Have already recommended to friends in need of legal advice!
Roy Jacob's professionalism and courtesy are unparalleled. He was timely with every request and got my case won with minimal time and effort. We got the best outcome I could have expected and exactly what I wanted to happen. I coukdnt ask for a better attorney. I will definitely be using him for the future and cant recommend him enough!
Lyndsey Smith
2 years ago
I really appreciate this law office on their efficiency and when they did communicate to me everything was explained thoroughly. Super friendly staff, and always very responsive when I called.
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. ⚖️
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!
Spencer Hodges
2 years ago
Response from the owner:Thank you!
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! 😊
Justin B
6 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!

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Latest Blog Posts

What Happens If You Miss Your Equitable Distribution Hearing in North Carolina?

A 2026 Decision on Notice, Default, and Getting It Undone

Can You Waive Alimony in a Premarital Agreement in North Carolina?

A 2026 Court of Appeals Decision Says Yes — and Explains Why “I Never Read It” Does Not Help

What Should I Do Before I Move Out on My Date of Separation?

The North Carolina Walkthrough Checklist. In North Carolina, treat the day you move out as a date you will have to prove later.

What Documents Does My Attorney Need Before Alimony Negotiation?

The Complete North Carolina List.
For an alimony negotiation in North Carolina, gather records showing both spouses’ income, actual household expenses, assets, debts, insurance, and employment benefits.

Should I Keep the House or Sell It?

The Short-Term Case for Stability and the Long-Term Case for the Asset

“Mr. Tingling, very helpful in my contempt case. We won our case.” 💚

We’re grateful to Ashawnta S. for sharing her experience working with Associate Attorney Marcus Tingling at Cape Fear Family Law.

Contempt cases can be stressful and challenging. Having an attorney who provides guidance and support throughout the process can make a meaningful difference.

Thank you, Ashawnta, for trusting Marcus and our team with your case and for taking the time to share your feedback!

If you have questions about a family law matter in North Carolina, our team is here to help you understand your options.

📍 Wilmington | Jacksonville | Durham | Raleigh

#CapeFearFamilyLaw #MarcusTingling #ClientTestimonial #FamilyLaw #ContemptOfCourt #NCFamilyLaw #ClientExperience
Part 6 🎥 Rule #4: Don't make your child the messenger

It can start innocently. "Was her boyfriend there?" "Did she sleep over last night?" "Was he there when you woke up?"

You may think you're gathering evidence. But your child experiences something very different. They instantly sense that the other parent could be hurt by whatever they say, and that puts them in a loyalty bind. Over time, that can mean real anxiety, fear, and sometimes even depression.

Your child isn't a tiny investigator, a counselor, or a private detective. They should be able to come home and tell you about their time with the other parent without feeling like they're being interrogated.

Information you feel entitled to isn't worth that cost to your child.

🎙️ Janet Gemmell, Attorney & Board Certified Family Law Specialist, shares why this rule matters for your kids and for your case.

Navigating co-parenting after separation? Our team is here to help. Reach out to Cape Fear Family Law to talk through your situation.

#FamilyLaw #CoParenting #CustodyCase #ChildCustody #DivorceAdvice #WilmingtonNC #DurhamNC #NorthCarolinaFamilyLaw
Part 6 🎥 Rule #4: Don't make your child the messenger

It can start innocently. "Was her boyfriend there?" "Did she sleep over last night?" "Was he there when you woke up?"

You may think you're gathering evidence. But your child experiences something very different. They instantly sense that the other parent could be hurt by whatever they say, and that puts them in a loyalty bind. Over time, that can mean real anxiety, fear, and sometimes even depression.

Your child isn't a tiny investigator, a counselor, or a private detective. They should be able to come home and tell you about their time with the other parent without feeling like they're being interrogated.

Information you feel entitled to isn't worth that cost to your child.

🎙️ Janet Gemmell, Attorney & Board Certified Family Law Specialist, shares why this rule matters for your kids and for your case.

Navigating co-parenting after separation? Our team is here to help. Reach out to Cape Fear Family Law to talk through your situation.

#FamilyLaw #CoParenting #CustodyCase #ChildCustody #DivorceAdvice #WilmingtonNC #DurhamNC #NorthCarolinaFamilyLaw
“Having an attorney you can trust makes a real difference.” 💚

We’re grateful to Kevin D. for sharing his experience working with Wesley Taynton at Cape Fear Family Law.

From providing knowledgeable guidance to answering questions and staying responsive throughout the process, Wesley is committed to helping clients feel informed and supported along the way.

Thank you, Kevin, for your trust and for recommending Wesley and our team!
Looking for guidance with a family law matter in North Carolina? We’re here to help you understand your options.

📍 Wilmington | Jacksonville | Durham | Raleigh

#CapeFearFamilyLaw #WesleyTaynton #ClientTestimonial #NCFamilyLaw #FamilyLawAttorney #ClientExperience