Starting July 1, 2026, Virginia law no longer forces separating spouses to wait months before seeking court protection. House Bill 303 fundamentally changes who can access the courthouse, and when. For generations, Virginia law kept the courthouse doors closed to...
Divorce
How do courts distribute property in other states in a divorce?
In Virginia, courts often divide a divorcing couple’s marital property with equity in mind, and what is equitable is not always equal. However, achieving a fair and just division can be difficult if the divorcing couple owns out-of-state property. Houses and cabins in...
How retirement can change your alimony obligations in Virginia
Retirement often brings a big change in daily life. You may feel relief from work stress and have more time for hobbies or family. But retirement can also change your finances. If you pay or receive alimony in Virginia, retiring may raise questions about whether your...
Spousal support: Protecting your finances by proving adultery
Discovering your spouse’s infidelity can be heartbreaking, especially if you dedicated years to your home and family. Beyond the emotional betrayal, you worry about what this means for your financial security. In Virginia, you may have the chance to protect your...
Preparing for financial negotiations during mediation
Mediation is a way for spouses to settle their disputes as they prepare for divorce. As long as they agree on terms, they can sign a document outlining those terms. They can then use those terms as they pursue an uncontested divorce. Some couples must settle child...
What happens if a divorce requires refinancing?
Divorce proceedings are a legal process through which people terminate their lawful marital relationship and separate their lives. Addressing financial matters is a key component of the divorce process. Spouses have to separate their assets and split up responsibility...
Can a divorce attorney communicate with a client’s spouse?
People preparing for divorce are often at a low point in their marriages. Even if the spouses have struggled, the spouse filing for divorce may worry about the other spouse’s reaction. They may not want to deal with the emotional fallout of filing for divorce....
The importance of valuing personal property during a divorce
The outcome of property division proceedings can influence the financial stability of divorcing spouses for years. The assets that they retain and the debts that they must repay can influence their standard of living and household budget after the divorce. Ensuring a...
Does remarrying influence spousal support orders?
Spousal support, also known as alimony, helps to make the outcome of a divorce fair. It is quite common for one spouse to leave the workforce or to focus more on the family than on their career. They may not be able to command competitive wages when they suddenly...
Clear goals can help spouses navigate divorce mediation
Divorce mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution. The purpose of mediation is to help spouses resolve any lingering disagreements about financial matters or parenting concerns. If they are successful, they don’t need to litigate a contested divorce....

