Virginia Divorce with Children: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

As a senior attorney with over two decades of dedicated experience in family law across Virginia, I have guided countless families through the profound challenges of divorce, particularly when children are involved. The dissolution of a marriage is inherently difficult, but when minor children are part of the equation, the complexities multiply, touching upon the most sensitive aspects of family life. My purpose here is to provide a clear, authoritative roadmap to understanding divorce in Virginia with children, empowering you with the knowledge needed to navigate this intricate legal landscape.

Divorce in Virginia, especially cases involving children, is governed by a robust framework of state laws designed to protect the interests of all parties, with paramount emphasis on the well-being of the children. This includes critical decisions regarding child custody, visitation schedules, child support, and the equitable distribution of marital property. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands that these are not merely legal procedures; they are deeply personal transitions that shape futures. We are committed to providing the seasoned guidance necessary to secure your rights and safeguard your children’s future.

Consequences & Stakes of Divorce with Children in Virginia

A divorce involving children in Virginia carries profound, lasting consequences for all family members, extending far beyond the immediate legal separation. Understanding these stakes is crucial for parents embarking on this complex journey.

When minor children are involved in a divorce within the Commonwealth of Virginia, the stakes are elevated. Beyond the emotional turmoil, parents face significant legal and practical considerations that will shape their children’s lives and their own co-parenting relationship for years to come. The primary objective of the Virginia legal system, as enshrined in Virginia Code § 20-124.3, is to act in the “best interests of the child.” This overarching principle guides all decisions regarding custody, visitation, and child support.

Impact on Children

Divorce can affect children emotionally, psychologically, and academically. Decisions made during this period, particularly those concerning their living arrangements, school, and access to each parent, will profoundly influence their stability and well-being. The court prioritizes continuity, safety, and a nurturing environment. Parents must understand that their individual desires may be secondary to what the court deems to be in their children’s best interests.

Custody and Visitation Determinations

Virginia law distinguishes between legal custody (the right to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious training) and physical custody (where the child lives). Both can be sole or joint. The court evaluates numerous factors to determine custody arrangements, including the child’s age, physical and mental condition, the parents’ fitness, and the child’s reasonable preference if mature enough. The final custody order is legally binding, and any deviation or violation can lead to serious repercussions.

Child Support Obligations

Child support is a critical component of any divorce involving children. Based primarily on statutory guidelines outlined in Virginia Code § 20-108.2, child support is calculated using a formula that considers the parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses. This obligation continues until the child reaches 18, graduates high school (whichever is later, up to age 19), or is emancipated. Failure to pay child support can result in severe legal penalties, including wage garnishment, liens on property, and even incarceration.

Equitable Distribution and Spousal Support

While distinct from child-related issues, the division of marital property and the determination of spousal support (alimony) can indirectly impact the children’s quality of life. Virginia follows the principle of equitable distribution, as defined in Virginia Code § 20-107.3, meaning assets and debts acquired during the marriage are divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. Spousal support, if awarded under Virginia Code § 20-107.1, aims to provide financial assistance to a dependent spouse, which can affect the overall financial stability of both households, and by extension, the children.

The Legal Process: Navigating Divorce with Children in Virginia

The legal process for divorce in Virginia with children is methodical, involving specific steps designed to ensure thorough consideration of all family-related issues, culminating in a final decree.

Understanding the procedural roadmap is key to navigating your divorce effectively. The process primarily unfolds within the Virginia Circuit Courts, which have exclusive jurisdiction over divorce matters. While some preliminary or concurrent matters like child support enforcement or initial custody requests might touch upon the Virginia Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts, the ultimate authority for granting a divorce decree and finalizing custody, visitation, and support orders rests with the Circuit Courts.

1. Meeting Residency and Separation Requirements

Before filing, one party must have resided in Virginia for at least six months immediately preceding the filing of the complaint. For a no-fault divorce, Virginia requires a period of separation. If there are minor children, the parties must live separate and apart without cohabitation and without interruption for a period of at least 12 months. If there are no minor children, this period is six months, provided the parties have a written separation agreement. This separation period is a critical prerequisite for obtaining a no-fault divorce under Virginia Code § 20-91.

2. Filing the Complaint for Divorce

The divorce process begins when one spouse (the plaintiff) files a “Complaint for Divorce” with the appropriate Virginia Circuit Court. This document outlines the grounds for divorce (e.g., separation, adultery, cruelty, desertion), requests for custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and equitable distribution. The other spouse (the defendant) is then formally served with the complaint.

3. Responding to the Complaint and Discovery

The defendant has a limited time to file an “Answer” to the complaint. If an answer is filed, the case becomes “contested.” If no answer is filed, the divorce may proceed by “default.” Following the initial pleadings, the “discovery” phase begins, where both parties exchange information relevant to the case, including financial records, property valuations, and other documents pertaining to the children’s welfare. This can involve interrogatories (written questions), requests for production of documents, and depositions (sworn out-of-court testimony).

4. Pendente Lite Hearings (Temporary Orders)

Given the duration of a divorce, especially with children, either party may request temporary (pendente lite) orders from the court. These orders, granted by a judge in a preliminary hearing, can address immediate needs such as temporary child custody and visitation, temporary child support, spousal support, and the use of marital property while the divorce is pending. These temporary orders remain in effect until a final order is issued.

5. Mediation and Negotiation

Virginia courts often encourage or even mandate mediation, particularly in cases involving children. Mediation provides an opportunity for spouses to reach a mutually agreeable settlement on all issues, guided by a neutral third party. If a full agreement is reached, it is formalized into a Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) or Property Settlement Agreement (PSA), which significantly streamlines the divorce process and often results in an “uncontested” divorce.

6. Court Hearings or Trial

If a full settlement cannot be reached through negotiation or mediation, the case will proceed to a final hearing or trial before a judge. During the trial, both sides present evidence, call witnesses (including, potentially, child custody evaluators or the children themselves in rare circumstances), and argue their positions. The judge will then make a final ruling on all outstanding issues, including grounds for divorce, child custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and equitable distribution.

7. Final Decree of Divorce

Once all issues are resolved, either by agreement or by court order, a “Final Decree of Divorce” is entered by the Virginia Circuit Court. This document legally dissolves the marriage and incorporates all the terms of the settlement or court’s ruling. It is a comprehensive order that governs the future relationship between the parties, particularly concerning their children.

The SRIS Virginia Child & Divorce Navigator Tool

To assist you in organizing the crucial information required for your Virginia divorce with children, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. proudly presents “The SRIS Virginia Child & Divorce Navigator Tool.” This practical resource is designed to streamline your preparation and clarify complex considerations.

Navigating a divorce is akin to piloting a ship through uncharted waters; effective navigation requires a clear map and reliable instruments. Our proprietary “SRIS Virginia Child & Divorce Navigator Tool” serves as your essential checklist and data organizer, helping you meticulously gather and understand the information critical to your case. This tool is not just a form; it’s a strategic guide to ensure you consider all pertinent details, from child-related specifics to financial disclosures, making your journey more organized and less daunting. Utilizing this tool will allow you to come to your case assessments better prepared, enabling a more productive and focused discussion with your legal counsel.

How to Use The SRIS Virginia Child & Divorce Navigator Tool: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Child Information Checklist:
   • Full names and dates of birth for all minor children.
   • Current school and daycare information, including contact details.
   • Detailed medical history for each child (doctors, medications, allergies, chronic conditions).
   • Current extracurricular activities and any special needs or educational plans (IEPs/504s).
   • Record of historical custody arrangements or informal agreements.
   • Any concerns regarding the other parent’s fitness (documented incidents).
2. Parental Information & Roles:
   • Your current living situation and proposed living arrangements for children.
   • Your work schedule and ability to care for children.
   • Your history of involvement in the children’s daily lives and decision-making.
   • Any significant changes in circumstances that would impact custody/visitation.
   • Your preferences for legal and physical custody (sole, joint, shared).
3. Financial Disclosure Organizer (Child Support & Spousal Support):
   • Income Documentation: Last three years of tax returns (W-2s, 1099s), recent pay stubs (6-12 months), and statements for any other income sources (bonuses, commissions, rental income).
   • Expense Tracking: Detailed monthly expenses for children (childcare, healthcare premiums/out-of-pocket, activities, education).
   • Household Expenses: All current household bills (mortgage/rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, insurance).
   • Debt Inventory: A comprehensive list of all debts (mortgages, car loans, credit cards, student loans) with current balances and monthly payments.
   • Asset Inventory: A list of all assets (bank accounts, investment accounts, real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, businesses) with current values.
4. Key Documents Tracker:
   • Marriage certificate.
   • Birth certificates for all children.
   • Pre- or post-nuptial agreements (if applicable).
   • Any existing court orders related to custody, support, or protective orders.
   • Deeds for real estate, titles for vehicles.
   • Bank and investment statements (last 12-24 months).
   • Retirement account statements.
   • Insurance policies (health, life, auto, home).
5. Communication Log (Optional but Recommended):
   • A log of significant communications with the other parent regarding children (dates, times, topics, outcomes).
   • Notes on any missed visitations or disputes regarding parenting time.

By diligently completing these sections, you’ll compile a robust overview of your circumstances, facilitating a more efficient and effective legal strategy. This tool helps ensure that no critical detail is overlooked, bolstering your position as you navigate the complexities of a Virginia divorce with children.

Legal Strategies & Approaches for Parents in Virginia Divorce

Approaching a Virginia divorce with children requires not just legal knowledge but also a strategic mindset to protect your interests and, most importantly, the well-being of your children.

In the nuanced environment of Virginia family law, a well-conceived strategy is paramount. As your legal advocate, my role extends beyond merely filing paperwork; it involves crafting a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique circumstances. Our focus at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is on achieving the most favorable outcome while minimizing conflict and emotional distress, particularly for children. Strategies often revolve around detailed preparation, effective negotiation, and, if necessary, assertive litigation.

Prioritizing the Child’s Best Interests

Every strategy concerning children must align with the “best interests of the child” standard as defined by Virginia Code § 20-124.3. This is not merely a legal phrase but a guiding principle. Demonstrating your capacity to foster a stable, nurturing environment, facilitate communication with the other parent, and support the child’s emotional and physical needs is fundamental. Strategies might include proposing detailed parenting plans that address daily routines, holiday schedules, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

Mediation and Collaborative Law

For many families, pursuing a mediated or collaborative approach can be highly beneficial, particularly when children are involved. These methods emphasize negotiation and mutual agreement rather than adversarial litigation.
Mediation involves a neutral third-party facilitator who helps both parents reach an amicable resolution on all issues, including custody, visitation, and child support. Collaborative law involves both parties and their attorneys committing to resolve issues outside of court, working together to find solutions. Both strategies aim to reduce conflict, preserve co-parenting relationships, and allow parents greater control over the outcome, often leading to more sustainable arrangements for children.

Comprehensive Financial Disclosure

Accurate and thorough financial disclosure is a cornerstone of a sound strategy, impacting child support and equitable distribution. Hiding assets or income will severely undermine your credibility and can lead to penalties. A meticulous review of all financial documents ensures that child support calculations are precise and that marital assets are equitably divided. This proactive approach prevents future disputes and ensures transparency, which is vital for fair outcomes as per Virginia Code § 20-107.3 regarding property division and Virginia Code § 20-108.2 for child support.

Protecting Parental Rights and Responsibilities

Even in high-conflict situations, maintaining focus on your parental rights and responsibilities is crucial. This involves advocating for appropriate legal and physical custody arrangements, ensuring fair visitation schedules, and addressing any concerns about the other parent’s capacity to care for the children. Documenting interactions, maintaining clear communication records, and presenting a consistent, responsible parental image are all parts of a robust strategy to protect your relationship with your children.

Preparing for Litigation (If Necessary)

While negotiation is preferred, some cases necessitate litigation. In such instances, thorough preparation becomes paramount. This includes gathering all relevant evidence, organizing witness testimonies, and presenting a compelling case to the court. Understanding the rules of evidence and court procedures is essential. My seasoned approach involves meticulous case building, anticipating counterarguments, and advocating fiercely for your position within the Virginia Circuit Courts, ensuring that your voice and the children’s needs are heard.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Virginia Divorce with Children

Navigating a Virginia divorce with children is fraught with emotional challenges, and it’s easy to make missteps that can negatively impact your case and your children’s future. Avoiding these common errors is critical.

Based on two decades of guiding clients, I’ve observed recurring mistakes that can complicate divorce proceedings, especially those involving children. Proactive awareness and careful avoidance of these pitfalls can save you significant time, money, and emotional distress. Remember, every action taken during this period can have long-lasting implications for your legal standing and your co-parenting relationship.

1. Failing to Prioritize Children’s Needs: Placing personal grievances above the children’s emotional and physical well-being. Courts heavily scrutinize parental actions through the lens of the “best interests of the child.” Engaging in parental alienation or disparaging the other parent in front of the children can severely harm your custody case.
2. Underestimating the Importance of Legal Counsel: Attempting to navigate complex Virginia family law statutes (Title 20 of the Code of Virginia) without seasoned representation. The intricacies of custody, support calculations, and equitable distribution are too profound for self-representation, often leading to unfavorable and irreversible outcomes.
3. Poor Financial Management and Disclosure: Hiding assets or income, making large purchases, or accruing significant debt during the separation period. Virginia courts demand full and honest financial disclosure (Virginia Code § 20-107.3). Any attempt to mislead can result in severe penalties, including adverse rulings on property division or spousal support.
4. Communicating Ineffectively or Hostilely: Engaging in combative or unconstructive communication with the other parent, especially via text or email. All communications can be used as evidence in court. Maintain a respectful, child-focused, and business-like tone, particularly concerning the children. Consider using co-parenting apps for documentation.
5. Moving Without Court Permission: Relocating with children, even within Virginia, without a court order or the other parent’s express permission. This can be viewed as an attempt to undermine the other parent’s relationship with the children and may lead to negative custody consequences. Always seek legal advice before any significant move.
6. Neglecting Documentation: Failing to keep detailed records of all child-related expenses, medical appointments, school communications, and instances of missed visitation or non-compliance by the other parent. Comprehensive documentation is crucial evidence in contested matters, particularly when modifying orders or demonstrating patterns of behavior.
7. Rushing Agreements: Signing a Marital Settlement Agreement or Property Settlement Agreement without fully understanding its terms or without independent legal review. Once signed and incorporated into a court order, these agreements are legally binding and very difficult to modify. Ensure all clauses, especially those pertaining to children, are in their best interest and sustainable.

Glossary of Key Legal Terms in Virginia Divorce

Understanding the specialized terminology is essential for navigating your Virginia divorce with children. Here are some fundamental terms you will encounter:

Equitable Distribution

The legal principle in Virginia (Virginia Code § 20-107.3) that requires marital property and debts to be divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, between divorcing spouses. The court considers various factors in this determination.

Legal Custody

The right and responsibility to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, including education, health care, and religious training. This can be sole (one parent) or joint (both parents share decision-making).

Physical Custody

Refers to where a child lives on a day-to-day basis. This can be sole (child lives primarily with one parent) or joint/shared (child spends significant time with both parents).

Child Support Guidelines

A statutory formula in Virginia (Virginia Code § 20-108.2) used to calculate the amount of child support, based primarily on the gross incomes of both parents, the number of children, and expenses like health insurance and childcare.

Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) / Property Settlement Agreement (PSA)

A comprehensive written contract between divorcing spouses that resolves all issues related to the divorce, including property division, debt allocation, spousal support, child custody, and child support. Once signed, it can be incorporated into the final divorce decree.

Pendente Lite Order

A temporary court order issued while a divorce case is pending. These orders address immediate needs such as temporary child custody, visitation, and support, and remain in effect until a final order is entered.

No-Fault Divorce

A divorce granted on the grounds of separation without assigning blame. In Virginia, a no-fault divorce requires a 6-month separation (if no children and there’s a written agreement) or a 12-month separation (if minor children are involved), as per Virginia Code § 20-91.

Common Scenarios & Questions in Virginia Child Divorce Cases

Clients frequently present similar challenges and inquiries when navigating a Virginia divorce with children. These scenarios highlight common pain points and offer practical insights.

My experience reveals that while every divorce is unique, certain patterns and questions emerge repeatedly, especially regarding children. Addressing these common scenarios can provide a sense of preparedness and illuminate potential paths forward within the Virginia legal framework.

Scenario 1: Disagreement Over Child Custody Arrangements

“My spouse and I cannot agree on who the children should live with, or how decisions about their schooling should be made. What happens if we can’t compromise?”

If parents cannot reach an agreement on legal or physical custody, the Virginia Circuit Court will make the determination. The court’s decision will always be based on the “best interests of the child,” considering factors outlined in Virginia Code § 20-124.3. These factors include the child’s age, physical and mental condition, the parents’ fitness, the child’s preference (if mature enough), and each parent’s ability to maintain a positive relationship with the other parent. The court may order a custody evaluation or appoint a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) to represent the children’s interests.

Scenario 2: One Parent Wants to Relocate Out of State

“I’m considering a job offer in another state, but my ex-spouse is refusing to allow me to move with our children. Can I still move?”

Relocation cases are among the most challenging in Virginia family law. If there is a custody order in place, you generally cannot move out of state with the children without either the consent of the other parent or a court order granting permission. The parent seeking to relocate must demonstrate to the Virginia Circuit Court that the move is in the child’s best interests, considering factors like the reason for the move, its potential impact on the child’s education and social life, and the ability to maintain the relationship with the non-relocating parent. This often requires a significant evidentiary showing.

Scenario 3: One Parent Is Not Paying Child Support

“My ex-spouse is consistently late with child support payments or has stopped paying altogether. What are my options?”

If a child support order is in place from a Virginia court, you have several enforcement mechanisms. You can file a motion for a rule to show cause with the Virginia Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or Circuit Court, asking the court to hold the non-paying parent in contempt. The court can impose various penalties, including wage garnishment, seizure of tax refunds, liens on property, suspension of driver’s licenses, and even incarceration for willful non-payment. The Virginia Department of Social Services (Child Support Enforcement Division) also offers services to help collect overdue support.

Scenario 4: Modifying Existing Custody or Support Orders

“My financial situation has changed significantly, or my child’s needs have evolved. Can I change our existing custody or child support order?”

To modify an existing custody, visitation, or child support order in Virginia, you must demonstrate a “material change in circumstances” since the last order was entered. This could include a substantial change in income for either parent, a significant change in a child’s health or educational needs, or a parent’s relocation. Once a material change is established, the court will then re-evaluate the child’s best interests or recalculate child support based on the new circumstances and the statutory guidelines under Virginia Code § 20-108.2. It is important to file a motion with the court promptly when such a change occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Divorce with Children

Navigating divorce with children often generates numerous practical questions. Here, I address the most common inquiries based on my decades of experience in Virginia family law.

1. How long does a divorce take in Virginia when children are involved?

A no-fault divorce with minor children in Virginia requires a 12-month separation period before you can even file. The overall timeline can vary significantly. An uncontested divorce with a comprehensive settlement agreement might be finalized shortly after the 12-month separation, perhaps within 14-18 months total. A contested divorce involving custody disputes, extensive discovery, and court hearings can take 18 months to several years to resolve fully.

2. What is the “best interests of the child” standard in Virginia?

This is the paramount legal standard applied by Virginia courts in all custody and visitation determinations, as per Virginia Code § 20-124.3. It means the court will make decisions that promote the child’s welfare, safety, and healthy development. The law lists specific factors the court must consider, including the child’s age, mental and physical condition, the parents’ fitness, the child’s reasonable preference (if old enough), and the parents’ ability to cooperate.

3. Is 50/50 custody typical in Virginia?

Virginia law does not presume that 50/50 physical custody is always in a child’s best interests. While courts often favor arrangements that maximize both parents’ involvement, a true 50/50 physical custody schedule is usually granted only when both parents live in close proximity, have good communication, and can genuinely co-parent effectively. The court considers the specific circumstances of each family and the factors listed in Virginia Code § 20-124.3.

4. How is child support calculated in Virginia?

Child support in Virginia is primarily calculated using statutory guidelines outlined in Virginia Code § 20-108.2. This formula considers the gross incomes of both parents, the number of children, costs for health insurance (medical, dental, vision), and work-related childcare expenses. Deviations from the guidelines are possible but require a specific finding by the court that applying the guidelines would be unjust or inappropriate.

5. Can child support be modified in Virginia?

Yes, child support orders can be modified if there has been a “material change in circumstances” since the last order was entered, and if the modification is in the child’s best interests. Common material changes include a significant increase or decrease in either parent’s income, a change in custody arrangements, or a substantial change in the child’s needs (e.g., medical expenses). The change must typically result in at least a 25% change in the guideline calculation or be due to one of the specified factors in the Code.

6. What is the role of a Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) in a Virginia divorce?

A Guardian Ad Litem is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the children in a custody or visitation case. The GAL will conduct an independent investigation, interview the children, parents, and relevant third parties, review documents, and then make recommendations to the court regarding custody and visitation. They serve as an impartial voice for the child.

7. Do children get to choose which parent they live with in Virginia?

Virginia law states that a court shall consider a child’s reasonable preference if the child is old enough, mature enough, and capable of forming an intelligent preference, as per Virginia Code § 20-124.3. There is no specific age at which a child’s preference becomes determinative. The weight given to a child’s preference varies greatly depending on their age, maturity, and the reasons for their preference. The court always retains the final decision-making authority.

8. What if my spouse is abusive?

Allegations of abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional) are taken very seriously by Virginia courts. If there is evidence of abuse, it can significantly impact custody and visitation decisions, potentially leading to supervised visitation or sole custody for the non-abusive parent. Protective orders can also be sought. It is critical to report any abuse to the proper authorities and seek legal counsel immediately.

9. How does remarriage affect child support or spousal support in Virginia?

Remarriage of the recipient spouse typically terminates spousal support in Virginia. However, remarriage of either parent generally does not automatically terminate or modify child support. Child support is based on the needs of the child and the incomes of the biological parents. A new spouse’s income is typically not factored into the child support calculation, unless it significantly impacts a parent’s ability to earn income or pay support.

10. Can I get an annulment instead of a divorce in Virginia?

Annulments are rarely granted in Virginia as they declare a marriage void from its inception. Grounds for annulment are very specific and limited (e.g., bigamy, fraud, incest, mental incapacity). If you have children born of the marriage, obtaining an annulment becomes even more legally complex. A divorce is almost always the more appropriate legal action when children are involved.

11. What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious training. Physical custody refers to where the child lives day-to-day. Both can be sole (one parent has primary responsibility/residence) or joint (parents share responsibility/time).

12. Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce with children?

Even if you and your spouse agree on all terms, it is highly advisable to retain a seasoned attorney. An attorney ensures that your Marital Settlement Agreement is legally sound, protects your rights, and addresses all necessary aspects, particularly concerning the children, in accordance with Virginia law. Missing critical clauses or making errors in the agreement can lead to significant problems down the line.

13. How does parental income impact child custody?

While income directly impacts child support calculations, it is generally not a primary factor in determining custody. The court focuses on which parent can best meet the child’s needs and foster their development. However, significant disparities in resources could be considered if they directly impact a parent’s ability to provide a suitable home or meet the child’s basic necessities.

14. What happens if a parent violates a custody or visitation order?

If a parent violates a court-ordered custody or visitation schedule, the aggrieved parent can file a Motion to Enforce or a Rule to Show Cause for contempt with the Virginia Circuit Court or Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The court can order the violating parent to comply, make up missed visitation time, pay legal fees, or even impose fines or jail time for willful non-compliance.

15. Are grandparents’ rights recognized in Virginia divorces?

Virginia law recognizes that grandparents and other third parties may seek visitation with a child, even over the objection of a parent. To be granted visitation, the grandparent must prove that the child’s health or welfare would be endangered without such visitation and that granting visitation is in the child’s best interests. This is a high legal burden to meet and is generally considered only in extraordinary circumstances.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Virginia divorce law and is not legal advice. The information is not a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in Virginia. Laws change, and the application of law depends on the facts of each case. You should consult with a seasoned attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for advice regarding your individual situation. Use of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.