Family Law Litigation

Aggressive Advocacy When It Matters Most

Litigation is not the route most clients want to choose when attempting to resolve their family law needs, but it is sometimes necessary when parties simply cannot agree on the outcome of their situation. In family law litigation, no two cases are exactly the same; therefore, it is crucial to have counsel who is experienced, with the strong reputation you want and the depth of knowledge you deserve to navigate your unique case.

At Ellis Family Law, we have over 100 years of litigation experience. Our litigators are talented and well-equipped to handle the emotional difficulty that your case may bring and are not afraid to be aggressive to achieve the best possible outcome.

When your family, children, home, business and peace of mind are on the line, you want a professional who is honest with you and will help you develop reasonable expectations. What sets us apart is our no-nonsense yet sensible approach. We view our role to be your advocate, adviser and educator throughout your case.

Ready to Talk?

Speak with a board-certified specialist.

Schedule A Meeting To Start With Your Case Resolution

Our team is responsive and committed to client satisfaction. We work with clients throughout the Triangle area.

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Law Litigation

When is litigation necessary in family law cases?

It is not the most usual for family law issues to be litigated. Sometimes a temporary hearing may need to occur to address some concerns before a judge and get their impressions, but the parties often settle through mediation or negotiations thereafter.

What happens during family law litigation in court?

A trial involves both parties putting on evidence for the court to decide the disputed matter. The plaintiff puts on their evidence first, then the defendant. At the end of the hearing, a judge makes a decision to resolve the claims before it.

Can family law cases be resolved without going to court?

Yes, most family law cases are resolved without going to court. The parties can either negotiate through their counsel or participate in mediation and put the agreed upon terms in a Separation Agreement — a formal contract that is enforceable by the court after it is properly executed.

What does litigation mean in a North Carolina family law case?

Litigation means that there is an open legal file with the court that results in a judge deciding the claims brought if the parties cannot reach resolution themselves. This also gives the attorneys the powers of subpoena and discovery if they believe the other side is hiding information.

How long does family law litigation take in North Carolina?

The time frame varies drastically depending upon the county, issues involved, and the specific judge’s docket. In the Triangle area a case may take 6–24 months if fully litigated (which does not often happen).

Hear From Our Clients

Jolie is an exceptional attorney who made it her mission to ensure that I had quick correspondence when it was absolutely needed. Jolie and her team answered any in all...

Jolie is an exceptional attorney who made it her mission to ensure that I had quick correspondence when it was absolutely needed. Jolie and her team answered any in all questions I had and worked with me, taking into consideration the best interest of my family and situation. I cannot say enough good things about how Jolie handled my case, her knowledge, expeditious review of my case, and the amazing work she did. Jolie gave me peace of mind, truly working to understand my case. It is clearly evident how much Jolie cares about her clients.

Shane Davekos

My lawyer Shannon Tucker was absolutely amazing and won me my case.

...

My lawyer Shannon Tucker was absolutely amazing and won me my case.

Joseph Williford

Kathleen has done an AMAZING job. In an otherwise terrible situation, Kathleen has kept things moving forward and has been an amazing attorney! She is excellent at keeping up communication,...

Kathleen has done an AMAZING job. In an otherwise terrible situation, Kathleen has kept things moving forward and has been an amazing attorney! She is excellent at keeping up communication, and is a bulldog in the courtroom. I highly recommend Kathleen, she has made an otherwise bad situation very manageable.

David Kimball

Emma and Sarah were absolutely wonderful to work with during the Separation Agreement process and then through the divorce process. They stayed in contact with me, and advised me as...

Emma and Sarah were absolutely wonderful to work with during the Separation Agreement process and then through the divorce process. They stayed in contact with me, and advised me as to the best actions to take. They also presented all of the options that I could take. I would highly recommend them.

Rebecca McPeak

My fiance and I worked with Jack T. for custody of his two kids over the last year-ish. He’s truly been heaven sent. He’s responsible, detail oriented, genuinely invested, remembers...

My fiance and I worked with Jack T. for custody of his two kids over the last year-ish. He’s truly been heaven sent. He’s responsible, detail oriented, genuinely invested, remembers conversations for months prior & genuinely will stand up for his clients! We worked with him at his old firm and through the transition also, and he didn’t miss a beat. Thankful for him & the outcome. Definitely recommend.

Olivia Conner

Working with Tony Kehoe during my separation was easily one of the best decisions I made during a challenging time. Tony brings a rare combination of legal precision, calm professionalism,...

Working with Tony Kehoe during my separation was easily one of the best decisions I made during a challenging time. Tony brings a rare combination of legal precision, calm professionalism, and genuine empathy to the process. He kept the strategy focused, protected my interests every step of the way, and made sure I felt informed and supported through every detail. If you need a steadfast, highly capable attorney who truly advocates for you, I cannot recommend Tony highly enough!

Skot Smith

Related Practice Areas

We are equally skilled in litigation and in resolving disputes outside of court.

When You Need An Honest Professional Looking Out For Your Best Interest

Call in Durham, Cary, Pittsboro or Wake Forest, or fill out the contact form on this site.

Ex Files featuring Pour Decisions

Stay up to date on changes in North Carolina law
Get specialist legal insights to your most pressing family law questions
Access exclusive guides and resources you won’t find anywhere else

And for a fun twist: don’t miss our “Pour Decisions” section, featuring wine tips from our lawyer-wine specialist Gray Ellis!

Family Law Litigation

Schedule A Meeting To Start With Your Case Resolution

Frequently Asked Questions about Family Law Litigation

Hear From Our Clients

Related Practice Areas

Divorce

Resolutions Outside of Court

Child Custody

When You Need An Honest Professional Looking Out For Your Best Interest

Ex Files featuring Pour Decisions

family law

Estate Planning