ClientFrom safety resources to new team updates—discover what’s inside this month’s Compass newsletter.
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A Message from Mary Gurganus

 

As we enter a new year, many North Carolina families are quietly making hard decisions about separation, divorce, custody, and child support. If you are in that place, I want you to know there is a steady path forward, and you do not have to navigate it on your own. Our Triangle Divorce Lawyers team supports clients across Raleigh, Cary, Clayton, Wake Forest and surrounding areas with practical guidance, respectful advocacy, and a focus on helping you protect your children, your finances, and your future.

 

In January, our 2026 focus is on early next steps, getting organized, understanding your options, and building a plan that fits your real life, whether you are exploring a separation agreement, preparing for a custody schedule, or simply trying to understand what comes next in a North Carolina divorce.

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Meet Our Newest Associate Attorney, Dana Bellingrath

 

Please join us in welcoming Dana Bellingrath to Triangle Divorce Lawyers. Dana supports individuals and families across Wake County, Johnston County, and surrounding areas, with a practice that includes both negotiation and litigation in North Carolina family law matters. 

 

Learn more about Dana and her background here

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What to Wear to Court in North Carolina

(Family Court Outfit Guide)

 

Walking into court for a custody hearing, child support issue, or divorce proceeding can feel heavy. Your outfit will not decide the outcome, but dressing in a respectful, professional way can help you feel more steady and keep the focus where it belongs, on your case.

That is why this guide was created as a collaboration with Colon Wood, at The Gentlemen’s Corner in Pinehurst, who helps clients select polished, appropriate attire for important life moments.

 

Want the full, detailed checklist (plus what to avoid and why)?


Read our complete guide here 

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Cognitive Benefits of Exercise During Divorce or Custody Stress (North Carolina)

 

When you’re going through separation, divorce, or a child custody change, stress can impact focus, sleep, and decision-making. In our latest article, Coach Val (Valerie Grasso) explains how consistent exercise can support brain health, memory, attention, and resilience during legal matters, plus a simple weekly plan you can start right away.

 

Read the full article

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12 Critical Steps Business Owners Must Take During Divorce (North Carolina)


If you own a business and you’re facing separation or divorce in North Carolina, the decisions you make early can impact your company’s value, cash flow, taxes, and long-term financial security. In this guest article, Tiffany Foster, CPA at Markoff & Malatesta, shares 12 practical steps to help business owners protect operations, organize key financial records, understand business valuation in divorce, and avoid common tax surprises during settlement negotiations.

 

Read the full article

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Domestic Violence and the Super Bowl: What NC Families Should Know

Big game weekends can bring high emotions, alcohol, and stress, and for some households, that can escalate unsafe behavior. Our latest blog explains warning signs to watch for, practical safety steps, and how Domestic Violence Protective Orders (50B orders) work in North Carolina.

 

Read the blog:
https://triangledivorcelawyers.com/domestic-violence-and-the-super-bowl-addressing-the-hidden-crisis/

 

If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

For confidential support, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788.

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Join Our FREE Online Second Saturday Divorce Workshop

 

If you are contemplating separation, already in the middle of a divorce, or feeling overwhelmed by “what ifs,” this workshop offers practical information you can use right away. You are welcome to attend, listen, and ask questions at your own comfort level.

 

.This live educational program brings together local professionals to offer non biased guidance so you can better understand your options and plan your next steps with more confidence.

 

Join us on Saturday, February 14th, 2026. At this workshop, you will hear from:

 

Real Estate Guidence with Bill Riccadonna

Financial Advisor Ivan Ellis

Attorney Justin Nichols at Triangle Divorce Lawyers

Sign-Up for our next workshop!

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Looking for something to do this month? 

 

Sherri Shepherd Live

Rascal Flatts (with special guests)

Astronomy Days 2026 NC Museum of Natural Sciences

 

Want an easy way to fill your calendar with low-cost fun around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill? Triangle on the Cheap keeps a frequently updated list of free and budget-friendly kids and family events

 

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Life doesn’t pause during legal transition - and sometimes the right professional can make all the difference. That’s why our team is glad to connect you with trusted local partners, including:

 

Financial Advisors

Real Estate & Mortgage

Therapists

Private Investigators

Travel Agents, Roofers, Electricians.

Wellness/Self-Care (spa day)

Movers, Organizers & More

 

Just reply to this email with the service you’re looking for.

We’ll be happy to connect you.

 

Notes: Referrals are provided as a courtesy; we do not receive compensation for recommendations. This information is educational and not legal advice.

 

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Need quick, reliable information about North Carolina divorce and custody topics?

 

Visit our Triangle Divorce Lawyers YouTube channel to explore short, attorney-led videos that break down common questions in a clear, approachable way. Most are under 3 minutes, so you can learn at your own pace, whenever it fits your day.

 

Featured topics include:

Divorce Mediation, Nathan Gudeman

Child Custody, Brooke Scott

Visitation and Co-Parenting Tips, Sheneshia Fitts

Separation Agreements, Daniel Swain

Equitable Distribution, Scott Allen

Domestic Violence, Jack Barrett

Absolute Divorce, Samantha Allen

Collaborative Law Process, Mary Gurganus

 

Know someone who could benefit from this information?

Forward this newsletter and help them stay informed.

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We’d Love Your Feedback!

If we’ve guided you through a difficult time with clarity, confidence, and care, we’d be grateful if you shared your experience. Your review not only means a lot to our team - it also helps other families find trusted support when they need it most.

Click here to leave us a Google review

 

When family dynamics shift, Triangle Divorce Lawyers is the steady hand you need. Proudly serving families across Raleigh, Cary, Wake Forest, Clayton and surrounding areas in matters of divorce, custody, alimony, and more.

 

This is your TDL community newsletter - created to inform, support, and connect. If you found it helpful, please pay it forward to someone who could use a fresh start.

 

Warm regards,
The Team at Triangle Divorce Lawyers 

 

Contact us to schedule a confidential meeting!

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Triangle Divorce Lawyers, 109 N. Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA, 919-303-2020

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