Protecting the Inheritance Rights of Surviving Spouses

North Carolina Elective Share, Year’s Allowance and Probate Lawyers

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Experienced Attorney For North Carolina Elective Share Cases

Dedicated to Your Success

Dedicated to helping surviving spouses across North Carolina secure the inheritance they deserve. With our experience and deep understanding of estate law and litigation, we provide tailored, results-driven representation for every client.

Prioritizing clear communication, transparency, and trust, we ensure that you are informed and confident throughout the process. Take back control and explore your legal options with confidence.


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(919) 416-8381

We invite you to reach out to us to discuss how we can assist you. Our team is available to answer your questions and schedule a consultation at your convenience.

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Clear and Open Communication

We are dedicated to delivering exceptional legal representation. Our commitment drives us to support our clients’ long-term success by fostering lasting relationships built upon clear communication and mutual trust.

Proven Expertise and Diligence

Whether you’re navigating an elective share case or seeking a year allowance after the loss of your spouse, you can trust us to be your dedicated advocate, fighting for the outcomes you deserve every step of the way.

Dedicated Advocacy and Support

We are not just your legal representative—we are your advocate. We provide unwavering support, guiding you through complex legal challenges and standing by your side to protect your rights and interests.

What Makes Us Different

Learn more about our personalized elective share process

(919) 416-8381

Protecting Your Rights as a Surviving Spouse in North Carolina Probate


Understanding your rights under North Carolina’s elective share laws is essential to ensuring that your inheritance is protected. An elective share case arises when you claim a statutory share of your deceased spouse’s estate, ensuring you are not disinherited. This legal proceeding, filed in the probate jurisdiction of the clerk of superior court, secures a minimum portion of the decedent’s total net assets, regardless of a will.

Under North Carolina General Statutes, the length of your marriage influences the percentage you may receive. To initiate an elective share, file a petition within six months after letters testamentary or letters of administration are issued. This process involves serving a summons, collecting asset information through discovery, and potentially attending mediations or hearings. The clerk’s final order specifies the amount you are owed, which can be enforced against “responsible persons” holding the decedent’s assets, sometimes requiring a standstill order to freeze those assets.

Although elective share rights can be waived in writing, it’s vital to understand every option available to you. Estate planning techniques—such as spousal trusts, irrevocable trusts, gifts, and elective share waivers—can help minimize conflicts. However, if you are already facing an elective share dispute, professional guidance is crucial.

Navigating the complexities of an elective share case can be overwhelming. We are committed to protecting what is rightfully yours. Our experienced attorneys stand ready to advocate for you and ensure your interests are upheld. We help you make informed decisions, so you can move forward with confidence.

Take control of your future today. Contact us for a comprehensive consultation and discover how our North Carolina elective share expertise can safeguard your financial security. Let us help you secure the share you deserve—and the peace of mind you need. Don’t let delays jeopardize your inheritance; let our team guide you every step of the way. 


Advocating for Justice

We know you are looking for so much more than just a lawyer who can handle your case – you’re searching for peace of mind. You may be experiencing one of the darkest moments of your life, and figuring our how to move forward can leave you feeling vulnerable and helpless.


“We aim to ensure that you take back control by empowering you with knowledge and information about your legal rights as a surviving spouse.”


Exploring all avenues

Losing a loved one can be a complicated, time-consuming, and costly process. Our experienced and passionate elective share lawyers are here to help surviving spouses receive the inheritance they deserve. Our goal is to explore every legal avenue available to you and ensure that you avoid common mistakes during the process.

Practice Areas

Elective Share Cases

Elective share cases protect North Carolina spouses from disinheritance, providing statutory rights to claim a defined portion of the deceased spouse’s estate. Our attorneys safeguard your rightful inheritance effectively.

Year’s Allowance

A Year’s Allowance ensures surviving spouses in North Carolina receive immediate financial support from a deceased spouse’s estate, covering essential living expenses. Our attorneys help protect your financial stability swiftly.

Partition Actions

Partition actions in North Carolina resolve disputes among co-owners by legally dividing or selling jointly owned property. Our experienced attorneys can guide you to protect your property interests and rights effectively. (Select Clients Only)