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
Hannah M
6 months ago
Another 10 star experience with Wes. He’s so kind and helpful. Great listener too but will get the job done for you every time! Cannot recommend enough!!!
Lauren Baumann
2 years ago
I have had a positive experience with Allie, especially given the circumstances. She has been very helpful and knowledgeable!
Bill Mathias
1 year ago
Janet is by far the best attorney I have ever dealt with. She is courteous, competent, values her clients and their time. She is very responsive and responds in a timely manner.
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.
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.
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!
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! 💙
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
Spencer Hodges
2 years ago
Response from the owner:Thank you!
Top rated
Cape Fear Family Law - Durham4.8
Based on 417 reviews
Kevin Davis
5 days ago
I highly recommend Wesley Taynton for anyone in need of legal representation. Wesley was professional, knowledgeable, and helpful throughout the process. I appreciated his guidance, responsiveness, and willingness to answer questions along the way. Having an attorney you can trust and feel confident working with makes a real difference. I’m grateful for his help and would absolutely recommend Wesley Taynton to anyone looking for quality legal representation.
Connor Green provided exceptional representation during my divorce, guiding me through one of the most difficult periods of my life with professionalism, clarity, and genuine care. From the very beginning, it was clear that Connor approaches family law with empathy at the center of his practice. He took the time to understand my situation, explain my options, and make sure I felt supported every step of the way. His skill in legal writing and his ability to break down complex issues made the process far less overwhelming. Connor’s collaborative style helped keep communication smooth and productive, and I always felt like he was truly advocating for my best interests. What stood out most was his calm, steady presence during emotionally charged moments—he never lost sight of the human side of the case. I’m deeply grateful for the meaningful difference he made in my life. Anyone looking for a family law attorney who is both highly competent and genuinely compassionate would be fortunate to work with Connor.
Justin B
6 months ago
Ashly F. went above and beyond outside of business hours to get me the paperwork I needed promptly.
Keana Moore
12 months ago
Ashley Owens with Cape Fear Family Law has been absolutely amazing! From the very beginning, she has gone above and beyond to make sure I understand every part of my case. She takes the time to explain each hearing in depth, answer all of my questions, and ensure I feel confident and informed every step of the way. Ashley is incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated to her clients. Thanks to her hard work and expertise, I’ve had multiple successful outcomes in my case. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better attorney to represent me. If you’re looking for someone who genuinely cares, communicates clearly, and fights hard for your best interests, I highly recommend Ashley Owens at Cape Fear Family Law. She’s the best!
Daniela Furlough
2 years ago
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!
Excellent
Cape Fear Family Law - Raleigh5.0
Based on 8 reviews
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
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! 😊
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! 💙
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!
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!

Your Name(Required)

Latest Blog Posts

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

How Do I Prove My Standard of Living for Alimony?

In North Carolina, you prove the marital standard of living for alimony with categorized monthly numbers from real transactions, not from memory.

“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
Part 5 🎥 New partner, two very different outcomesSame separation. Two different approaches to a new partner. Watch how each one lands on the kids. 🎙️ Janet Gemmell, Attorney & Board Certified Family Law Specialist#FamilyLaw #CoParenting #CustodyCase #DivorceTok #WilmingtonNC
Your memory number: $4,500.
Your bank statements: $7,800.In an NC alimony case, the court tests the number. It doesn't take the story.Attorney Melissa Bradnick breaks down how to build a 12-month record that matches the financial affidavit, and why soft estimates are what the other side wants.Link in bio to read the post and download the free guide.#NorthCarolinaAlimony #NCFamilyLaw #AlimonySupport #StandardOfLiving #DivorceNC #FamilyLawyer #CapeFearFamilyLaw #WilmingtonNC #RaleighNC #DurhamNC #JacksonvilleNC
Part 4 🎥 Dating, overnights & custody — what NC law actually saysA kid's trust is earned, not automatic. And no — an overnight guest doesn't mean an automatic loss of custody in NC. Courts look at the whole picture, not just who you're dating. 🎙️ Attorney, Board-Certified Family Law Specialist Janet Gemmell#FamilyLaw #CustodyCase #CoParenting #NCLaw #WilmingtonNC
“Hands down, a remarkable and unforgettable experience.” 💚We’re grateful to Gina S. for sharing her experience working with Erica Benson and the Cape Fear Family Law team through a complex traditional surrogacy matter.When a case doesn’t have a clear path forward, having a team that takes the time to listen, understand the details, and guide your family through each step can make all the difference.Thank you, Gina, for trusting us with such an important part of your family’s journey. 💛#CapeFearFamilyLaw #EricaBenson #ClientTestimonial #TraditionalSurrogacy #FamilyLaw #NCFamilyLaw #FamilyLawAttorney #ClientExperience