NASCAR is a big deal in North Carolina, so the name Danica Patrick is well known in most households in the state. This season has seen some great success for the NASCAR driver. On the heels of recently being named Nationwide's Most Popular Driver, the 30-year-old issued a statement saying that regrettably she and her husband of 7 years will be proceeding with a divorce.
According to a statement issued by the driver to the Associated Press, "I am sad to inform my fans that after seven years, Paul and I have decided (to) amicably end our marriage. This isn't easy for either of us, but mutually it has come to this. He has been an important person and friend in my life and that's how we will remain moving forward."
When a couple in North Carolina decides that it is time to end the marriage, there is a minimum 12-month separation period that needs to be observed by the couple. This North Carolina mandated separation period doesn't mean that the couple seeking a divorce is not allowed to talk to their soon-to-be ex. Conversely, this can be a period for couples that wish to part on amicable terms to work through the specifics of the spilt.
This includes determining if alimony is in order, and splitting up all marital property and debts in an equitable manner. An equitable manner does not necessarily translate into a 50-50 split, so retaining an experience family law attorney can be invaluable.
Further, whenever the couple has children, issues of child custody, visitation and support are of paramount importance. There are a number of custody arrangements that can be agreed upon that will be pleasing to both spouses while bearing in mind the best interest of the child.
Divorce is never easy, but it does not need to be a hard-fought war of attrition. An experienced family law attorney can guide a couple through this process in a respectful and timely manner.
Source: Sports World Report, "Danica Patrick Divorces Husband After Seven Years, Wins NASCAR Nationwide Series Most Popular Driver Award," Matthew Jussim, Nov. 21, 2012
- Our firm has experience guiding couples through a separation and divorce in North Carolina. For more information, please visit our North Carolina family law page.
No Comments
Leave a comment