NC DIY Divorce: Forms, E-Filing, and Costs

North Carolina provides a straightforward "simple divorce" pathway for couples who meet the state's separation requirements and agree on all terms. The NC Judicial Branch publishes free divorce form packets, and most counties now accept electronic filing through NC eCourts. Understanding North Carolina's unique requirements—especially the one-year separation period—helps you prepare for a smoother DIY divorce process.

The One-Year Separation Requirement

North Carolina requires couples to live separate and apart for one full year before filing for absolute divorce under G.S. 50-6. This is a mandatory waiting period that must be completed before you can even file your case.

Every divorce is different. Get a cost estimate based on YOUR North Carolina situation:

Key Separation Rules: You must live in separate residences for 365 consecutive days. Isolated sexual encounters do not restart the clock, but "resumption of marital relations" is determined by the totality of circumstances. At least one spouse must be a NC resident for 6 months before filing.

Simple Divorce vs. Contested Cases

Simple absolute divorce is North Carolina's DIY-friendly option when you only need to end the marriage. One spouse files, the other is served, and after a brief court hearing the judge signs the divorce decree. No property division or support issues are decided.

Important: If you need property division (equitable distribution) or alimony, you must file those claims before the divorce judgment is entered. Under G.S. 50-11(e), the divorce judgment terminates your right to pursue these claims if not already filed.

Contested cases involving custody, child support, or property division require additional filings, mandatory mediation, and potentially multiple hearings—making DIY representation more challenging.

Free NC Courts Divorce Forms

The NC Judicial Branch provides a comprehensive divorce packet for self-represented litigants. Essential forms include:

• Complaint for Absolute Divorce and Verification
• Civil Summons (AOC-CV-100)
• Domestic Civil Action Cover Sheet (AOC-CV-750)
• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Declaration (AOC-G-250)—required before default
• Judgment for Absolute Divorce Before Judge (AOC-CV-712) or Before Clerk (AOC-CV-710)
• Certificate of Absolute Divorce (AOC-CV-711)

Download all forms from NC Courts Divorce Packet. Some counties provide additional local forms.

NC eCourts E-Filing

Most North Carolina counties now accept electronic filing through NC eCourts File & Serve. As of July 2025, 87 counties are live on the system. Self-represented filers may e-file in participating counties; attorneys are required to e-file.

• NC eCourts Portal – Check if your county is live
• Create an account, upload PDFs, pay fees online
• Non-eCourts counties still require paper filing at the Clerk

Filing Fees and Costs

North Carolina filing fees are standardized statewide:

• Filing fee: $225 (includes $75 DV Center Fund surcharge)
• Sheriff service: $30 per defendant
• Name resumption: $10 (optional)
• Total (typical simple divorce): $255-$265

If you cannot afford fees, you may apply for a fee waiver using form AOC-G-106 (Petition to Proceed as an Indigent).

Need a Full Cost Breakdown?

The calculator above gives you a quick estimate. For a comprehensive plan covering forms, filing sequence, and potential attorney costs, get your full DIY divorce plan here.

Expected Timeline

After completing the required one-year separation, NC divorce timelines depend on case type:

• Simple uncontested: 45-90 days from filing to judgment
• Default (no answer): After 30-day response period expires
• Contested with custody/ED: 9-18 months depending on mediation and discovery

The defendant has 30 days from service to file an Answer. If they sign an Acknowledgment of Service, you can proceed faster. Parties can extend deadlines by stipulation up to 30 days without court approval.

Official North Carolina Resources

• NC Courts – Divorce Packet
• NC eCourts – E-Filing Portal
• G.S. 50-6 – Absolute Divorce Requirements
• NC Courts – Custody Mediation Program