After the parties have been living separate and apart for one year, and if at least one of the parties has lived in North Carolina for six months, either spouse can file a lawsuit asking the court for an absolute divorce. An absolute divorce, or final divorce, is the official end to the marriage contract. Because certain support and property distribution rights can be extinguished by obtaining an absolute divorce, and because a judge cannot review a proposed judgment for accuracy or validity, it is very important that you consult with an attorney before obtaining a divorce.