Can I get divorced without a lawyer?

Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.

What is the difference between a petition and a response?

The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.

Does this cover custody?

It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

North Carolina Divorce Forms

Start or respond to a divorce with court-ready petition and response documents.

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An uncontested or simple divorce often does not require a lawyer. This tool drafts the Petition for Dissolution, the Response, and a marital settlement framework covering property division and, where relevant, custody.

Divorce in North Carolina: what the official sources say

Court: District Court

To use the court’s divorce packet, you or your spouse must have lived in North Carolina for at least the last 6 months. source
You must have been separated from your spouse for at least 12 months. source
If you want alimony, child support, or a division of property or pensions, talk to a lawyer first: divorcing before you settle these may cost you those rights. source

Official North Carolina forms and instructions

Checked against the official sources on 2026-09-10. Court rules change, so confirm them before you file.

Before you file in North Carolina, confirm

How long you must live in North Carolina before you can file
Whether North Carolina has a waiting period before a divorce can be final
Which official North Carolina forms must be filed with your petition
How your spouse must be served, and the filing fee or fee waiver

The official North Carolina court site below has the current answers.

Documents you can generate

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
Response to a petition you were served with
Property division and settlement framework
Formatted for your state family court

Official resources and free legal help

Pro Se Legal Docs is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. These templates help you prepare your own filing; they do not replace advice from a licensed North Carolina attorney.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get divorced without a lawyer?: Many uncontested divorces are handled pro se. If there are contested assets, support disputes, or custody conflict, consider consulting an attorney.
What is the difference between a petition and a response?: The petition starts the case (you are the petitioner). The response is what you file if your spouse filed first and served you.
Does this cover custody?: It includes a custody framework, and a dedicated custody-agreement generator is available for parenting plans and schedules.

Other North Carolina forms

Eviction Defense Small Claims Debt Lawsuit Defense Domestic Violence Restraining Order Custody Agreement Unpaid Wage Claim Civil Harassment Restraining Order Bankruptcy Schedule

Divorce forms for every state

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This is a self-help document generator, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court rules and filing requirements in North Carolina can change - confirm specifics with your local court clerk or a licensed attorney.