Equitable Distribution Over 15 Years of Family Law Experience

How Marital Property is Divided in North Carolina

The division of marital property and debt is an important issue in most North Carolina divorces. If you are facing a divorce, it is important to understand this issue and how the courts handle it per state law. You will want to know your legal rights in connection with your assets, property, and the debt accumulated over the life of your marriage. How marital property is divided can have a huge impact on your future in terms of your financial resources as you transition into life as a single person. 

At The Law Offices of Annette R. Heim, P.A., we can educate you on your rights and how the law can impact the unique circumstances of your case. In many cases, especially those involving long marriages, you may have accumulated many assets, from your home to other real property, bank accounts, vehicles, investments, and more. Anything acquired by you or your spouse after your wedding becomes part of your “marital estate” that will be subject to a division. We can guide you through this issue providing the fierce advocacy you need to ensure you are protected.

Turn to our Concord equitable distribution attorney for a confidential consultation about your case. Call (704) 912-0353 or contact us online. Serving clients throughout Cabarrus and Stanly Counties. 

Our Guiding Values in Family Law

Compassionate Advocacy, Swift Solutions.
  • Honesty, Wisdom, and Integrity
    At our firm, we uphold the highest standards of honesty, wisdom, and integrity. We understand the importance of trust in attorney-client relationships, especially in sensitive family matters. Attorney Annette R. Heim is dedicated to providing transparent and honest communication, guiding you with wisdom gained through experience, and upholding the integrity of the legal profession. You can rely on us to handle your case with professionalism, honesty, and a steadfast commitment to your best interests.
  • Compassionate Advocacy from Start to Finish
    Attorney Annette R. Heim and her team offer more than just legal representation; we provide unwavering support and compassionate advocacy throughout the entire legal process. With us by your side, you can expect dedicated and knowledgeable assistance from the initial consultation to the resolution of your case. We are here to stand up for you and your family's rights, ensuring that your voice is heard in the courtroom.
  • Tailored Legal Strategies for Your Unique Situation
    We recognize that every family case is distinct, shaped by its unique individuals and circumstances. Our firm is committed to developing customized legal strategies tailored to your specific goals and challenges. By understanding your unique situation, we can provide effective and personalized legal solutions to protect your rights and the well-being of your loved ones.
  • Empathetic Guidance in Difficult Times
    Attorney Annette R. Heim and her firm understand the emotional and financial challenges that accompany family law disputes. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and empathetic guidance, helping you navigate through the complexities of divorce, custody battles, and domestic violence cases.

Words from Our Clients

Discover the experiences of others who entrusted us with their family law matters. Read what our clients have to say about their journey with us. These testimonials reflect the compassion, dedication, and expertise we bring to every case. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our greatest achievements. Take a moment to explore their stories.

    "Recommend 110%."
    Annette and her staff helped me when I needed it most. They listened to me, formulated a simple plan, accomplished it and got me even more than I had hoped for.
    - Pete H.
    "She fights for you!"
    Annette has represented us for over 12 yrs. She has a quality of class that you can't find in lawyers today. It's not about the money it's about the people she represents.
    - Gene G.
    "Annette is definitely the one you want to hire."
    During these situations, passions can run high. The best thing to do is to keep your head in the game and focus on the best interests of the child/children. Annette is the one that will help you stay focused on the facts, the case, and your goal.
    - Kelly F.
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    Annette Heim came in my life exactly when I needed her. She helped me through the most challenging times of my life.
    - Daisy T.
    "Annette is a Go-Getter!"
    Integrity and a considerable amount of ability I would highly recommend using Annette Heim to represent your family and the interests of the family. She represented me when I needed her Professional Integrity and someone to represent me.
    - Ned F.
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    Annette is a personal friend and once was my attorney. I am proud to know her.
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    One of the best law firms in North Carolina they continue to amaze me.
    - Rick C.
    "Very Honest Legal Team!"
    Annette and team they are so kind and she will listen to you and just be honest with you. We highly recommend her services.
    - Kaleigh R.

     In North Carolina, the marital estate is everything acquired after the date of marriage with a few exceptions. Typically, the distribution to each spouse will be 50%, hence “equitable distribution.” The key to maximizing a client’s share is through a thorough collection of all financial documents related to the marital estate or by using the various court processes to discover all the assets and debts. These cases can be document-intensive. However, with the collection of all the relevant information and a cost-benefit analysis approach, you can usually reach a favorable result on this issue. 

    Marital property includes all assets acquired after the marriage, including but not limited to:

    • The family home
    • Other real estate
    • Checking and savings accounts
    • Other investments, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and more
    • Vehicles
    • Retirement accounts and pensions
    • Art, jewelry, and other collectibles
    • Furnishings

    Valid prenuptial agreements can impact this issue, in which the terms of the agreement as to property division will specify how specified property is to be divided. Absent such an agreement, If you and your spouse cannot agree on this matter, the court will look at a variety of factors to make a determination. These factors can include the length of marriage, child custody, the ages and health of both parties, their employability, and more.

    At The Law Offices of Annette R. Heim, P.A., we bring significant experience to helping you reach a fair and just resolution of this issue, either through negotiation or in court.