How Can We Help You?
Divorce
In North Carolina, spouses must be separated for a year prior to filing for divorce. This period begins the day one spouse moves out.
CHILD SUPPORT
Each parent has an obligation to support their children. North Carolina Child Support Guidelines are very specific, but you may still have questions.
Adoption
Welcoming a child into your family by adoption is very exciting. We are here to help you handle the legal processes involved.
CHILD CUSTODY
Child custody is one of the most contested parts of ending a marriage or relationship. We can help you navigate custody matters with sensitivity.
Separation
The decision to separate is a difficult one, and there are many emotions involved. We are here to help you navigate your separation and to ensure your legal rights.
Alimony
North Carolina law is hazy, at best, when it comes to guidelines for alimony and post-separation support. We can help navigate your unique situation.
Division of Property
Second to child custody, the most highly contested area of separation and divorce is the division of property.
Surrogacy
Because of advances in medicine over the last several decades, there are many options available to couples that are unable to conceive naturally.
Family Law is our passion.
Family law issues are often emotionally-charged, and it is imperative that you hire an attorney that is both knowledgeable about the law and able to compassionately guide you through important decisions. Because this area of law is so wrought with emotions, it important to have an attorney to help you look beyond these emotions and advocate for your best interest.
Get in touch with us to set up a consultation, or use the contact form at the bottom of this page to inquire whether our services are right for you.
About Melissa Flanagan
Melissa has lived in North Carolina since she was seven years old, raised in the small town of Four Oaks. She graduated from South Johnston High School and then attended North Carolina State University where she completed her undergraduate education with a Bachelor of Science in Applied Sociology with a Criminal Justice Concentration.
After graduating from North Carolina State University, Melissa opted to remain in the Raleigh area. She worked in various levels of State and Local government as a Case Manager with both the State of North Carolina and Wake County Child Support Enforcement. After having worked in Child Support Enforcement for nearly nine years, she chose to leave her full-time job to attend North Carolina Central University School of Law.
No two families are alike, and because of this, family law is not “one-size-fits-all.” Our legal services are tailored to YOUR family and YOUR situation. We will take the time to get to know you and your unique circumstances. Each family pursuing legal services has differing legal needs. We strive to provide comprehensive, individualized service to each family we work with.
Education
North Carolina State University
B.S. Applied Sociology with a Criminal Justice Concentration, 1995
North Carolina Central University School of Law
Juris Doctor, 2015
Activities & Affiliations
- North Carolina Bar Association, Member
- Wake County Bar Association, Member
- North Carolina Advocates for Justice, Member
- The National LGBTQ+ Bar, Member
- The Pauli Murray LGBTQ+ Bar Association, Member
- Leadership Fuquay-Varina, Class of 2019
- Fuquay-Varina Citizen’s Police Academy, Class of 2020
- Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association, Member/Friend of Downtown
- Development Committee of the LGBT Center of Raleigh, Former Member
- Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Former Member
Bar Admissions
- North Carolina State Bar
- Tenth Judicial District Bar