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Family Law · Divorce, Child Custody, Equitable Distribution

McIlveen Family Law Firm

301 S McDowell Street, Suite 700 · Charlotte, NC 28204 · (704) 312-1127

DivorceChild CustodyFamily Law Equitable DistributionAlimonyPrenuptial Agreements

Angela and Sean McIlveen built one of the largest family-law practices in the Carolinas — with offices in Charlotte, Gastonia, and Raleigh and a team of attorneys whose combined experience exceeds 75 years. The firm's reputation is for handling the difficult cases: contested custody, high-asset equitable distribution, post-separation support, and contempt enforcement. Clients come to McIlveen when the stakes are kids, retirement, or a family business.

75+ years combined experienceThree NC offices — Carolinas-wideFamily law only — nothing else
Request Free Consultation (704) 312-1127
4.8
★★★★★
210+ verified client reviews
Overall
4.8
Results
4.8
Communication
4.7
Value
4.5
Editorial Verdict

Why Choose McIlveen Family Law?

If you're facing a contested divorce or a custody fight in Mecklenburg County, McIlveen is one of the few firms in Charlotte that does only family law — no personal injury distractions, no business law side practice. That focus shows. The team understands NC's one-year separation rule, the state's quirky equitable distribution math, and the way each Mecklenburg County family court judge thinks. They are not the cheapest option in town and they aren't trying to be — but if your case has real stakes, this is one of the firms you call.

Practice Areas

Situations They Handle

Absolute Divorce Child Custody Child Support Equitable Distribution Alimony & PSS Prenuptial Agreements Domestic Violence Protective Orders Adoption
Fees & Pricing

What You'll Pay

Family law matters are billed hourly with an upfront retainer. Senior partners typically bill in the $400–$525 range, with associates and paralegals at lower rates. Retainers vary by case complexity. The firm provides written fee agreements and detailed monthly billing — no hidden charges.

$$$
hourly + retainer
Paid
initial consultation
The Team

Key Attorneys

Sean F. McIlveen

Sean F. McIlveen

Founding Partner
North Carolina Board Certified Family Law Specialist. Co-founded the firm with Angela. Trial-tested in contested custody, equitable distribution, and high-asset divorce.
Angela McIlveen

Angela McIlveen

Founding Partner & Managing Attorney
Co-founder. Leads the firm's strategic direction and complex contested custody work across the Charlotte, Gastonia, and Raleigh offices.
Senior associate attorneys

Senior Associates

Family Law Team
A bench of attorneys handling everything from uncontested divorces to complex equitable distribution and post-separation support hearings across NC.
Client Experiences

What Clients Say

Client
Stephanie L.
Child Custody · Charlotte
★★★★★
“My ex moved to take primary custody after I refused to relocate. McIlveen built a parenting-time record over six months that the judge could not ignore. I kept primary custody and the parenting plan finally feels stable.”
Client
Robert B.
High-Asset Divorce · South Charlotte
★★★★★
“Substantial business interests, two retirement plans, and a vacation property. Sean's team brought in the right valuation expert and walked me through every line of the equitable distribution affidavit. A fair settlement, no trial.”
Client
Andrea P.
Domestic Violence Order · Mecklenburg
★★★★★
“They got me into court within 48 hours for an emergency 50B order. I felt safe for the first time in months. Their team handled the criminal court coordination and a permanent protective order followed.”
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FAQ

Common Questions About This Firm

How long do I have to be separated to file for divorce in NC?
North Carolina requires one year and one day of continuous separation before you can file for an absolute divorce. McIlveen helps with custody, support, and equitable distribution issues during the separation period.
How is child custody decided in North Carolina?
NC courts use a 'best interests of the child' standard. Judges consider relationships, school stability, parental cooperation, and any history of violence. The firm helps build evidence-based parenting plans.
What does it cost to hire McIlveen?
Family law work is billed hourly with an upfront retainer. Senior attorneys typically bill in the $400–$525 range. The firm provides clear written fee agreements and detailed monthly billing.
Does the firm handle high-asset divorces?
Yes. McIlveen regularly represents clients with substantial marital estates, business interests, retirement accounts, and complex equitable distribution issues using forensic accountants when needed.
Can I work virtually with the firm?
Yes. Virtual consultations and remote case management are available. In-person meetings happen at the Charlotte, Gastonia, or Raleigh offices.

Quick Facts

Founded2000s · Carolinas-wide
Firm SizeMid-size · 3 NC offices
Fee StructureHourly + retainer
Free ConsultationPaid initial
LanguagesEnglish, Spanish
Virtual AvailableYes
Service AreaCharlotte, Gastonia, Raleigh
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Charlotte Office

301 S McDowell Street, Suite 700
Charlotte, NC 28204
(704) 312-1127

Recognition

  • ✓ NC Board Certified Family Law Specialist (S. McIlveen)
  • ✓ 75+ years combined experience
  • ✓ Carolinas-wide multi-office firm
  • ✓ Family law dedicated — nothing else