A divorce from bed and board is often a misunderstood term. A divorce from bed and board is a judicial separation granted by a court. It is not an absolute divorce and has certain limitations. A divorce from bed and board may be granted if either party: Abandons the family; Maliciously turns the other spouse out of doors; Treats the other spouse in a cruel and barbarous manner; endangering his or her life; Offers indignities to the person of the other spouse, rendering his or her condition intolerable and life burdensome; Uses drugs or alcohol in excess; or Commits adultery. (N.C. Gen. Stat. §50-7)