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 278 reviews
mallory gould
1 year 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.
Jody Clark
1 year ago
Kayleigh Davenport recently represented me in a complicated, what felt like ever changing legal matter. Due to the circumstances of my case, it took nearly 8 months to resolve. I have had other attorney’s in the past and can say one of the things that set Kayleigh apart is that she genuinely listened to what I wanted to get accomplished. Without going into detail, what I wanted evolved over time and instead of feeling pressured by her, she made me feel confident in my own decisions. Her office was transparent from the beginning what the cost was going to be so there was not confusion. I highly recommend Kayleigh to anyone seeking a family law attorney!!!
Macey Bordeaux
1 year ago
We chose Kayleigh DavenPort again for our son’s adoption case after successfully closing our TPR case with her. Just as Kayleigh was responsive and extremely diligent in the TPR case, she took us seamlessly from TPR to adoption. She immediately began work on our case and was super efficient in getting us through the process for a successful stepparent adoption. Her trustworthiness and dependability never wavered during our cases. We would trust her over again!
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!
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!!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 reviews
Justin B
4 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**
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!
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! 😊
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! ✨
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 418 reviews
Rachelle Hutton
11 months ago
Connor Green was an amazing attorney and helped me tremendously with my Child Custody and Child Support cases. He is truly an advocate for his clients and I feel it’s important to be heard in matters such as these. Thank you Connor Green for everything you’ve done for me and my daughter.
Jody Clark
1 year ago
Kayleigh Davenport recently represented me in a complicated, what felt like ever changing legal matter. Due to the circumstances of my case, it took nearly 8 months to resolve. I have had other attorney’s in the past and can say one of the things that set Kayleigh apart is that she genuinely listened to what I wanted to get accomplished. Without going into detail, what I wanted evolved over time and instead of feeling pressured by her, she made me feel confident in my own decisions. Her office was transparent from the beginning what the cost was going to be so there was not confusion. I highly recommend Kayleigh to anyone seeking a family law attorney!!!
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!!
Bernard White
1 year ago
Melenni was awesome! Very professional and very attentive to detail. Would definitely refer potential clients to Melenni and (CFFL) - Cape Fear Family Law
Bill Mathias
1 year ago
Janet is by far the best attorney I have ever have had to deal with She is courteous, competent, cares about her clients and their time. An asset for sure. Thank you Janet for everything you did for me
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 9 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! ✨
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!
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
4 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! 😊
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

Is Custody Mediation Required in North Carolina?

What Actually Happens, and What It Costs You If You Wing It

Digital Evidence in NC Family Law

What You Can Legally Capture, What’s a Crime, and What Judges Actually Use

How to Legally Change Your Name in NC After Divorce (2026)

The $10 Form Most People Never Hear About — and the One Case Where You Actually Need a Lawyer

Alimony Negotiation in NC

Step-Downs, Lump Sums, Tradeoffs, and What Actually Settles

Financially Dependent Spouse in NC

How to Get Temporary Support, Housing, and Counsel Before Final Orders

Think everything in a divorce is automatically split 50/50? Think again. ⚖️In North Carolina, property division follows the principle of equitable distribution—and “equitable” doesn’t always mean equal.Factors like income, property contributions, debts, and other circumstances can affect how assets are divided.Before making assumptions about what you may receive—or lose—make sure you understand how the law actually works.#DivorceLaw #NorthCarolinaDivorce #EquitableDistribution #FamilyLaw #DivorceAdvice #CapeFearFamilyLaw #NorthCarolinaAttorney #DivorceTips
Family law cases are won in the details. Clear, organized documentation gives your attorney the clarity they need to advocate for you — and helps keep your case moving forward with confidence. 📋✨Not sure what to keep track of? Our team can walk you through it. Link in bio to schedule a consultation.#FamilyLawTips #DivorceSupport #CaseOrganization #CapeFearFamilyLaw #NCFamilyLaw #KnowYourRights #DivorceJourney #LegalClarity
"No one tells you this before you separate…"If you're the spouse who makes less money, waiting until your savings run out is the biggest mistake you can make. 😳I didn't know this until I started digging into NC family law, but you can actually ask for help right after separation — not months down the road when you're already drowning:💰 Postseparation support (temporary spousal support)
🏠 Possible use of the marital home
👶 Temporary child support
⚖️ Even help covering attorney's feesThe catch? None of it happens automatically. You have to ask for it — and the earlier you file, the stronger your case.Being the lower earner in a marriage isn't a character flaw. It's a legal situation with real solutions — but only if you know they exist.📖 Full breakdown (including a first-30-days checklist)
Link in bio.#NCFamilyLaw #Divorce101 #KnowYourRights #WilmingtonNC #FamilyLawAttorney #PostseparationSupport
POV: A client asks, "What happens between now and my court date?"Here's what we tell them 👇Your case isn't final yet — but life doesn't pause while you wait. Temporary custody, support, and property issues often come up before that final order is ever signed.That means decisions about where the kids stay, who's covering what bills, and how shared property gets handled right now — not just eventually.The good news? None of this has to feel like guesswork. Knowing what's coming makes the in-between so much easier to get through.If you're in this stage right now, drop a "🤍" or send us a message — happy to walk you through it.
There’s a side of leaving a marriage that people don’t talk about enough: what happens when you don’t have the financial resources to actually leave?@_jen_hamilton_ put words to something so many women experience — the fear, the uncertainty, the emptiness, and the feeling that there’s no clear way forward.And seeing what happened when people came together to support her was honestly incredible.It’s a reminder that sometimes, what someone needs most isn’t judgment or advice. They need someone to say, “You’re not alone. There is a way forward.”Jen’s story is powerful — and it’s a conversation worth having. ❤️#DivorceSupport #WomenSupportingWomen #DivorceRecovery #FamilyLaw #YouAreNotAlone