Do I hire lawyer in North Carolina since I am a resident, or do I find a lawyer in Virginia?

It sounds like you are saying he has filed in VA. You would need to seek a VA attorney asap to discuss VA law and how to respond to the divorce or if you need to at all. For example in NC, if you don't have any contested issues such as alimony, property, or kids, there is no requirement or need to get an attorney or even respond to the divorce lawsuit. Also, in NC, one cannot contest the actual divorce or prevent it by refusing to consent. "Contested divorces" really have to do with the other issues mentioned above. But if there is 1 year separation and 6 months residency of at least 1 party, the divorce cannot be stopped or contested. But I cannot advise on VA law so you need to consult with VA counsel asap. Generally, any lawsuit will have a deadline to respond (usually 20-30 days and sometimes with the option to get a small extension on that).