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
Elijah Harrington
2 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.
Chris Vandiford
11 months 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.
Regina Gachett
1 year ago
Cape Fear Family Law was great! I appreciate and want to thank Melanni Balbach and her staff for everything. I was well informed from beginning to end, I would recommend their service if you ever need a lawyer!
Samuel Birgel
1 month ago
I recently worked with Cape Fear Family Law on a tough, drawn-out custody case and they made a real difference. My attorney, Waneta Ellis, was steady and practical the whole way through. She explained things clearly without sugarcoating, kept me focused on what actually mattered, and helped me secure sole legal custody of my daughters. It was a long process, but having someone competent and responsive in my corner made it more manageable to endure. I’d recommend them if you’re dealing with a complicated family law or custody situation.
Matt G was incredible from start to finish. I couldn’t be more happy with the results of my case and the professionalism from him and his firm. I greatly recommend anyway with any cases in family law go with them. Trust me it makes a difference!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Bill Mathias
11 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
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
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! 💙
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
11 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. ⚖️
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 415 reviews
Matt G was incredible from start to finish. I couldn’t be more happy with the results of my case and the professionalism from him and his firm. I greatly recommend anyway with any cases in family law go with them. Trust me it makes a difference!
Deirdre Kelly
6 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.
devin seefluth
1 year ago
Kayleigh was absolutely amazing. From the moment I brought them on for my divorce, and breech of contract they were very communicative. Any questions I had were answered, even though I was states away she really took away all the stress from me.
Ally Bowser
1 year ago
Highly recommend Cape Fear Family Law and Attorney Benson! We had a sensitive situation that he helped us handle with exceptional knowledge and professionalism. Any of our questions were answered in a timely manner and we appreciated the help of him and his team.
Regina Gachett
1 year ago
Cape Fear Family Law was great! I appreciate and want to thank Melanni Balbach and her staff for everything. I was well informed from beginning to end, I would recommend their service if you ever need a lawyer!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Ellen Snyder
11 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. ⚖️
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! 💙
Bill Mathias
11 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
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! 💙
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! ✨
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

Mediation vs. Litigation in NC: True Cost Breakdown Per Spouse

If you are facing a separation in Guilford County, the anxiety keeping you awake at 2:00 AM usually comes down to two things.

How Much Does a Collaborative Divorce Cost in North Carolina? (Estates $100K–$3M)

How much a collaborative divorce costs in NC for estates of $100K–$3M — typical $4,000–$20,000 combined. Cost breakdown, litigation comparison, and FAQs from Board-Certified Specialist Adrian Davis.

DWI on the 4th

DWI on the 4th: How One “Over-Served” Holiday Could Cost You Custody in North Carolina

Child Custody and Infidelity in North Carolina

What Every Parent Needs to Know. Does infidelity affect child custody in North Carolina? Learn when cheating, adultery, or an affair partner around your children can matter in an NC custody case.

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.

⚖️ Mediation or litigation? The decision could save—or cost—you thousands.One of the first questions we hear is: Which path is right for my divorce?In North Carolina, mediation is often a more cost effective option for couples who are willing to negotiate. Litigation, while sometimes necessary, can become significantly more expensive when disputes over custody, property, or support escalate.In our latest blog, Attorney Alex White breaks down:
✅ The real cost difference between mediation and litigation
✅ What drives divorce costs higher
✅ When court may be necessary
✅ How to choose the best strategy for your situation💡 Bonus Resource: Download our FREE 2026 NC Divorce Cost Calculator to better understand the potential financial impact of your case and start planning with confidence.📖 Read the full blog and access your free download: Link in our bio.💡 The right legal strategy isn't just about resolving your case—it's about protecting your financial future.#Mediation #Litigation #NorthCarolinaDivorce #FamilyLaw #DivorceCosts #DivorcePlanning #PropertyDivision #DivorceMediation #CapeFearFamilyLaw
If your NC child support order is over 3 years old, a 15% shift in the guidelines is all it takes to modify.Need to run your child support math? Contact Cape Fear Family Law → Link in bio.#ChildSupportModification #FifteenPercentRule #GuidelineWorksheet #NorthCarolinaLaw #PaymentAdjustment
💙 Thinking about divorce but want to avoid a courtroom battle?A collaborative divorce may be the quieter, more cost-effective path.For many North Carolina couples, collaborative divorce typically costs $4,000 to $20,000 combined—often significantly less than a contested divorce. The final cost depends on factors like the complexity of your assets, whether neutral financial professionals are involved, and if children are part of the process.In our latest blog, Board Certified Family Law Specialist Adrian Davis explains:
✅ What collaborative divorce typically costs in North Carolina
✅ Why it can be more affordable than litigation
✅ What factors affect the total cost
✅ Whether it's the right fit for your family📖 Read the full blog to learn if collaborative divorce is the right path for you: Link in our bio.#CollaborativeDivorce #DivorceCosts #FamilyLaw #NorthCarolinaLaw #DivorceMediation #PropertyDivision #CapeFearFamilyLaw
💰 Money Week Kickoff: What Divorce Really Costs in North CarolinaWhen people think about the cost of divorce, they often think of filing fees. But the biggest expenses usually come from conflict, delays, and decisions made without a clear legal strategy.Custody disputes, property division, spousal support, and prolonged litigation can all affect the financial impact of a divorce. Understanding your options early can help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary costs.This week, we're breaking down the financial side of divorce and sharing practical insights to help North Carolina families plan with confidence.#MoneyWeek #NorthCarolinaDivorce #DivorcePlanning #FamilyLaw #FinancialPlanning #PropertyDivision #SpousalSupport #CapeFearFamilyLaw
🇺🇸 **Happy Fourth of July from Cape Fear Family Law!**Today, we celebrate the freedoms that bring us together and the communities that make North Carolina home.Whether you're spending the day with family, friends, or making new memories with your children, we hope your Independence Day is filled with joy, laughter, and safe celebrations.From all of us at Cape Fear Family Law, have a happy and safe Fourth of July! ❤️🤍💙#FourthOfJuly #IndependenceDay #FamilyFirst #NorthCarolina #CapeFearFamilyLaw