CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It's now been over two years since Madalina Cojocari was reported missing.
Cornelius police say they are still investigating the case after the little girl was last seen in public getting off her school bus.
Her mother, Diana Cojocari, is now in Moldova while her step-father is still in North Carolina.
Christopher Palmiter has filed for divorce from Diana.
With a court date set, many are wondering if Diana has to come back to the states for that hearing.
That court date is set for March 3, 2025 at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse.
THE QUESTION:
Does Diana Cojocari have to come back to Mecklenburg County for her divorce court hearing?
THE ANSWER:
No, Diana Cojocari does not need to come back to Mecklenburg county for the divorce hearing.
OUR SOURCES:
WHAT WE FOUND:
According to the North Carolina judicial branch, in order to qualify for a divorce, you have to be separated for at least a year and a day. Palmiter filed for separation in December of 2022. So they meet that requirement.
According to the NC judicial branch, as long as you're eligible to file for a divorce, your spouse does not have to agree to it.
In North Carolina, if you file for a divorce, your spouse does not need to complete or sign any paperwork, file with the court, or go to court for the divorce hearing.
However, they must receive proper legal notice of the divorce case that you file. We do know according to documents we obtained earlier this month, Palmiter has made that filing.
Gary Mauney said the only reason someone would have to appear is if they are under a subpoena or required by a judge. Otherwise, a party does not normally have to appear personally and it's perfectly fine to appear through your attorney.