Understanding the Divorce Process in Virginia

Divorces are often emotional, complex and time-consuming. In addition to the process of filing for divorce, spouses need to consider related issues, such as dividing assets, child custody, and spousal and child support. There may also be additional considerations if the divorce involves high net worth, military, or same sex spouses. If children are involved, the divorce process may be more complicated, as issues such as child custody and child support must be decided.

If spouses are more amicable during a divorce, there may be options available to make the process speedier and less expensive. For example, if spouses agree on all aspects of a divorce, they may file for an uncontested divorce. Spouses in an uncontested divorce can typically avoid having to go to court by requesting to have a hearing by deposition or affidavit and submitting additional documents. Parties can also participate in settlement negotiations as well as Alternative Dispute Resolution processes such as Mediation or Collaborative Law, rather than pursuing contested litigation in Court.

The divorce process itself doesn’t always need to be complicated. Consulting a family law attorney can help prepare individuals for how the process will go and what to expect. Whether you’re concerned about spousal or child support, property division, international family law matters, custody and visitation, or issues affected by security clearances, we’re ready to help. Schedule a consultation today to determine the best strategy for reaching your goals.

Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of divorce and some of the areas we can help you with include:

• Filing for divorce
• Participating in mediated or collaborative divorce
• Negotiating and litigating property division
• Negotiating and litigating spousal support
• Negotiating and litigating child custody, visitation, and support issues
• Seeking enforcement of divorce orders, such as seeking unpaid child or spousal support
• Modifying spousal or child support obligations
• Drafting, reviewing, and negotiating separation agreements