Virginia recognizes several different fault-based grounds for divorce. These include adultery, sodomy, buggery, conviction of a felony, cruelty, desertion, and constructive desertion. Alternatively, a divorce can be granted because the parties have lived separate and apart for the requisite period. People often refer to this type of divorce as no-fault because the parties do not [ Read More ]

Meeting with an attorney for the first time can seem overwhelming. However, being prepared will make the meeting run smoothly. Bringing key documents will help you make the most of your first meeting with your attorney to ensure you receive effective representation. If your case already involves pending litigation, documents you have received from the [ Read More ]

There are two parts to a custody determination in Virginia: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody is the responsibility to make decisions for the child’s care and control. Physical custody is where the child primarily resides. In some cases it may be appropriate for one parent to have sole legal custody of the child, [ Read More ]

When a couple is starting to explore the possibility of divorce, sometimes it is difficult for one party to answer the question, “Are you separated?” In Virginia, there is no “legal separation” in the sense that there is no formal court order or document that signifies the couples’ separation. Instead the term separated as it [ Read More ]

When meeting with your family law attorney for the first time, it is wise to bring to the meeting key documents related to your case. Bringing these important documents will help you make the most of your first meeting with your attorney. If your case already involves pending litigation, such documents will assist your attorney [ Read More ]

With all of the advertisements that are out there these days for DIY products, it is very tempting for couples to want to do all or a portion of their divorce on their own, thinking they are saving money by not having an attorney give them any advice or preparing any of the documentation. There are readily available resources on the internet for drafting your own agreement, so why not sit down with your spouse, come up with your agreement and be done with it?