Family matters are personal and often painful. Gobena & Associates provides sensitive and strategic representation in Minnesota and North Carolina, and you can discuss your situation with us in English, Amharic or Afaan Oromo.
Family Law Matters We Handle
- Divorce and legal separation
- Child custody and parenting time
- Child support and spousal maintenance
- Property division
- Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
- Domestic abuse protection
We advocate for our clients while seeking resolutions that protect their interests and their families.
Minnesota and North Carolina Rules Differ
Minnesota uses a no-fault standard for divorce (called dissolution of marriage): the court must find an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Generally, at least one spouse must have lived in Minnesota for 180 days before filing.
North Carolina generally requires spouses to live separate and apart for one year before an absolute divorce can be granted, and at least one spouse must have lived in North Carolina for six months before filing. Claims for property division (equitable distribution) and spousal support (alimony) generally must be filed before the absolute divorce judgment is entered, or they may be lost.
These are general rules only. Your options depend on your facts, so speak with an attorney before you file or sign anything.
Safety First
If you or your children are in danger, call 911. Both Minnesota and North Carolina courts can issue protection orders in cases of domestic abuse, and we can help you seek one.
Talk With Us in Your Language
Offices in Saint Paul, Minnesota and Charlotte, North Carolina. Call 1-888-462-3625 or send us a message. We speak English, Amharic and Afaan Oromo.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.