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 276 reviews
Lauren Baumann
1 year ago
I have had a positive experience with Allie, especially given the circumstances. She has been very helpful and knowledgeable!
mallory gould
11 months 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.
Melenni and the staff at Cape Fear Family Law were extremely helpful and supportive. I was always afraid that lawyers would try to milk me for every cent, and I never felt that way with Melenni or any one else I worked with at Cape Fear Family Law. I felt valued and understood, and everyone was kind, friendly, and compassionate. I HIGHLY recommend Cape Fear Family Law!
Cristina Chiang
1 year ago
I am very pleased working with Granger Benson in my child custody and support case. It was not easy, however it is resolved now. Granger maintained a good communication with me and we discussed all the details and my concerns. He did a great job!
Tyler Bullard
6 months ago
I had a great experience with CFFL of Wilmington. My lawyer, Connor Green, was a pleasure to work with. Mr. Green was always available to talk about updates and changes. He expedited my custody case and I can honestly say that I will call him again for future family needs.
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Bill Mathias
10 months 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
Ellen Snyder
10 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. ⚖️
Milen Michael
1 year ago
Allie Moore worked diligently, and I was very pleased with her services. Thank you Allie Moore & Cape Fear Family Law!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you were pleased with Allie Moore’s hard work and dedication. 🌟 She is a true asset to our team, and we’re proud of the care and diligence she brings to every client she serves. We appreciate you choosing Cape Fear Family Law and are grateful for the opportunity to help you. Wishing you all the best in the future, and if you ever need us again, we’ll be here for you! 💙
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
1 year 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 414 reviews
Tiffany Cutler
1 year ago
Roy Jacobs is without a doubt the most reliable, trustworthy, thorough, and knowledgeable attorney I’ve had experience with. He worked with me through a 9 month long custody case that ended in a trial and gave 100% every step of the way. I highly recommend him if you’re looking for someone you can trust. I can’t thank him enough for working hard and winning my case!
Dylan Penny
9 months ago
Had the pleasure of working with Roy Jacobs and his team for the entirety of my divorce, child custody, and child support process. They guided me through it with an incredible amount of professionalism, subject matter expertise, and empathy. They made a painful process as painless as possible, and I cannot thank them enough. I give nothing but my highest recommendation for this firm, Roy, and his team to anyone requiring legal representation or counsel regarding Family Law.
Chyeanne Flores
4 months ago
Conner Green has been amazing, understanding, helpful, knowledgeable and flexible to work with.
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.
Tyler Bullard
6 months ago
I had a great experience with CFFL of Wilmington. My lawyer, Connor Green, was a pleasure to work with. Mr. Green was always available to talk about updates and changes. He expedited my custody case and I can honestly say that I will call him again for future family needs.
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Cristina Leone
1 year 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! 💙
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!
Milen Michael
1 year ago
Allie Moore worked diligently, and I was very pleased with her services. Thank you Allie Moore & Cape Fear Family Law!!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your thoughtful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you were pleased with Allie Moore’s hard work and dedication. 🌟 She is a true asset to our team, and we’re proud of the care and diligence she brings to every client she serves. We appreciate you choosing Cape Fear Family Law and are grateful for the opportunity to help you. Wishing you all the best in the future, and if you ever need us again, we’ll be here for you! 💙
Ellen Snyder
10 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. ⚖️
Bill Mathias
10 months 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
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!

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Latest Blog Posts

Does Alimony End When My Ex Remarries This Summer in NC?

The 2026 Modification Reality. Yes, under North Carolina General Statute § 50-16.9(b), alimony automatically and legally terminates the exact day your dependent ex-spouse remarries.

Summer PCS Orders & Child Custody: A Service Member’s June Survival Guide

PCS orders do not automatically change child custody in North Carolina. Learn what Camp Lejeune service members should do before relocating with children this summer.

Can My Ex Take My Child Out of State for Summer Vacation in NC?

The 2026 Travel Consent Reality — Notice, Permission, and What to Do When the Beach Trip Becomes a Court Question

Can My Ex Deny Me Father’s Day in NC?

Your Rights as a Dad in 2026 — What North Carolina Custody Orders Actually Say, and What to Do If She Says No

Father’s Rights in NC

The Truth About Custody, Visitation & The ‘Mom Always Wins’ Myth

🇺🇸 **PCS orders during a custody case? Here are 3 immediate moves to make.**If you've received Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders, don't assume your custody arrangement automatically changes too.✅ Review your current custody order before making travel or relocation plans.
✅ Notify the other parent as required by your court order or applicable law.
✅ Speak with a family law attorney as early as possible to understand your legal options.Planning ahead can help protect your parenting rights and prevent unnecessary delays or disputes.#PCS #MilitaryFamilies #ChildCustody #CampLejeune #MilitaryLife #NorthCarolinaLaw #FamilyLaw #CapeFearFamilyLaw
Summer often brings schedule changes for many families, making it especially important to stay informed about upcoming custody hearings, filing deadlines, and court dates in Onslow County.Whether you're dealing with a custody modification, temporary custody order, contempt matter, or an emergency parenting dispute, preparing before your hearing can make a significant difference.Missing paperwork, incomplete documentation, or waiting too long to respond may negatively affect your case.Questions about an upcoming custody hearing in North Carolina? Cape Fear Family Law is here to help you understand the process and prepare for your case.
🇺🇸 Received PCS orders this summer? Don't assume your custody order changes automatically.For military families, a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) can create major questions about parenting time, relocation, and child custody. But in North Carolina, PCS orders alone do not modify an existing custody order.Knowing your rights—and taking action early—can help avoid unnecessary conflict and protect your relationship with your children.In our latest blog, Attorney Waneta Ellis explains what Camp Lejeune service members and military families should know before relocating this summer.📖 Read the full blog: Link in our bio.#MilitaryFamilies #PCS #ChildCustody #CampLejeune #MilitaryDivorce #NorthCarolinaLaw #FamilyLaw #CapeFearFamilyLaw
🌎 "Just because a parent moves doesn't mean North Carolina loses jurisdiction."We hear this misconception all the time.When one parent relocates out of state, many families assume custody and child support matters automatically move with them. In reality, North Carolina courts may still have authority depending on the existing court orders, the child's connections to the state, and other legal factors.⚖️ Jurisdiction issues can become complicated quickly—and mistakes can lead to delays, increased costs, and unnecessary stress.If your family is dealing with an interstate custody or support matter, understanding where your case belongs is one of the most important first steps.📍 Questions about interstate family law issues? Our team is here to help.#CustodyMatters #ChildSupport #FamilyLaw #DurhamNC #NorthCarolinaLaw #CoParenting #CapeFearFamilyLaw
✈️ Quick question for co-parents:Have you reviewed your custody order before booking summer travel?Many parents are surprised to learn that their agreement may contain specific requirements for vacations, out-of-state trips, travel notices, or passport permissions.The best time to address travel concerns is before the bags are packed.💬 Are your summer plans already set?#SummerTravel #CustodyTips #CoParenting #FamilyLaw #CapeFearFamilyLaw