High Asset Divorce in Virginia: Your Comprehensive Guide for Fairfax & Loudoun Counties

For individuals navigating the dissolution of a marriage involving substantial wealth, the challenges extend far beyond typical divorce proceedings. A high asset divorce in Virginia, particularly within the affluent corridors of Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, demands an understanding of intricate financial landscapes, complex legal statutes, and a strategic approach to asset preservation and equitable distribution. With decades of experience guiding clients through these sophisticated matters, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands that what is at stake is not merely a division of property, but the carefully constructed foundation of a financial future.

High net worth divorce cases are distinguished by the sheer volume, diversity, and complexity of marital assets. This often includes ownership interests in private businesses, publicly traded stocks, stock options, real estate portfolios, intricate trusts, substantial retirement accounts, intellectual property, and significant collections of art or other valuables. Unlike standard divorces, these cases frequently involve forensic accountants, business valuation experts, and tax professionals to accurately assess and classify assets, ensuring that a comprehensive financial picture is presented to the court. The stakes are profoundly high, and a nuanced understanding of Virginia law is paramount to protecting your interests.

The Profound Consequences & Stakes of High Asset Divorce

A high asset divorce in Virginia carries profound financial, professional, and personal consequences, where the equitable distribution of complex assets and the determination of spousal support can significantly impact one’s long-term financial security and lifestyle. The stakes are exceptionally high, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a proactive legal strategy to protect your future.

In cases involving substantial wealth, the division of marital property moves beyond simple calculations. It delves into the intricate valuation of business interests, stock options, deferred compensation, and vast real estate portfolios. The misclassification or undervaluation of even a single significant asset can result in millions lost or gained. Beyond the immediate financial impact, the outcome of a high asset divorce can dictate one’s post-divorce lifestyle, retirement plans, and even the ability to continue certain professional endeavors, particularly if business partnerships are involved.

Virginia law, specifically Virginia Code § 20-107.3 (Spousal Support; Maintenance and Alimony) and Virginia Code § 20-107.1 (Equitable Distribution of Marital Share in Property), provides the framework for these determinations. However, the application of these statutes to high net worth estates demands a nuanced interpretation and presentation of financial evidence. Disputes over the marital vs. separate nature of property, the fair market value of privately held businesses, or the tax implications of asset transfers can lead to prolonged and expensive litigation. Without seasoned legal counsel, individuals risk significant financial detriment, underscoring the critical need for comprehensive representation by a knowledgeable VA high-asset divorce attorney.

The Legal Process: Navigating High Asset Divorce in Virginia Circuit Courts

The legal process for a high asset divorce in Virginia primarily unfolds within the Circuit Courts, such as those in Fairfax County or Loudoun County, and typically involves comprehensive financial disclosure, complex discovery, potential mediation, and if necessary, litigation centered on equitable distribution and spousal support, often requiring the engagement of financial experts.

The journey through a high asset divorce in Virginia, whether in Fairfax or Loudoun County, is characterized by several distinct phases, each requiring meticulous attention to detail and strategic foresight. As seasoned Northern VA divorce lawyers, we guide our clients through each step:

1. Petition Filing and Service: The process begins when one spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the appropriate Virginia Circuit Court. This complaint must be formally served upon the other spouse, initiating the legal proceeding.
2. Financial Discovery: This is perhaps the most critical and extensive phase in a high asset divorce. Both parties are required to provide comprehensive financial disclosures. This involves exchanging detailed information about all assets (bank accounts, investment portfolios, real estate, business interests, retirement accounts, trusts, intellectual property), liabilities (debts, mortgages, loans), income, and expenses. For complex assets, this often necessitates formal discovery tools like interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and depositions of the opposing party, financial advisors, and business partners. The goal is to obtain a complete and accurate financial picture.
3. Asset Identification and Valuation: Unlike simpler divorces, high asset cases almost invariably require the retention of financial experts. Forensic accountants are often engaged to trace funds, identify hidden assets, and determine the marital versus separate nature of various properties. Business valuation experts assess the fair market value of privately held companies, professional practices, or complex investment vehicles. Real estate appraisers evaluate properties, and specialists may be needed for art collections, antiques, or other unique valuables. The accuracy of these valuations is paramount for equitable distribution.
4. Negotiation and Mediation: Before trial, parties often attempt to resolve their differences through negotiation or formal mediation. Mediation, facilitated by a neutral third party, can be particularly beneficial in high asset cases, allowing for creative solutions and a degree of privacy that is not possible in open court. However, successful mediation hinges on both parties having a clear understanding of their financial landscape, which is informed by the comprehensive discovery process.
5. Pre-Trial Conferences and Motions: As trial approaches, the court may hold pre-trial conferences to streamline issues, discuss settlement prospects, and set parameters for the trial. Various motions may be filed, such as motions to compel discovery, motions regarding the admissibility of expert testimony, or motions for pendente lite (temporary) support.
6. Trial (if necessary): If a settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge in the Virginia Circuit Court. During trial, evidence is presented, including expert testimony regarding asset valuations, income streams, and the factors relevant to equitable distribution under Virginia Code § 20-107.3 and spousal support under Virginia Code § 20-107.1. The judge then issues a final decree of divorce, which includes rulings on property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support.
7. Appeals: Either party dissatisfied with the Circuit Court’s ruling may have the option to appeal to the Virginia Court of Appeals, and potentially, in rare circumstances, to the Virginia Supreme Court.

Throughout this intricate process, the involvement of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. ensures that your financial disclosures are thorough, expert witnesses are properly utilized, and your case is presented with the precision and depth required for complex high asset matters in the Virginia courts.

The SRIS Strategic Asset Division Navigator Tool

The SRIS Strategic Asset Division Navigator is a crucial tool designed to help individuals facing a high asset divorce in Virginia systematically identify, categorize, and prepare financial information for equitable distribution, ensuring a comprehensive and strategic approach to protecting substantial wealth.

Navigating the division of a complex marital estate requires more than just legal knowledge; it demands meticulous organization and a strategic approach to information gathering. The SRIS Strategic Asset Division Navigator provides a structured framework to help you compile the essential financial data that will be critical for your case. This tool is designed to work in conjunction with your legal counsel, ensuring no stone is left unturned in assessing your marital and separate assets and liabilities.

The SRIS Strategic Asset Division Navigator: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Initial Financial Snapshot & Document Gathering:
   • Collect Personal Financial Statements: Gather statements from all financial institutions (banks, credit unions, brokerages) for the past 3-5 years.
   • Compile Tax Returns: Obtain federal and state income tax returns (including K-1s, 1099s, etc.) for the past 3-5 years.
   • Gather Pay Stubs & Income Documentation: Collect recent pay stubs, bonus statements, deferred compensation plans, and any other income verification.
   • List Real Estate Holdings: Document all properties owned, including addresses, current fair market values (if known), mortgage statements, and deeds.
   • Identify and Collect Estate Planning Documents: Locate wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.
2. Asset Classification & Tracing:
   • Distinguish Marital vs. Separate Property: For each asset, determine if it was acquired during the marriage (marital) or before/through gift/inheritance (separate). Provide documentation to support separate property claims.
   • Trace Commingled Funds: If separate property was mixed with marital funds, begin compiling bank statements and transaction histories to trace its origin.
   • Document Gifts & Inheritances: Provide clear documentation (e.g., gift letters, probate records) for any assets received as gifts or inheritances, as these are typically separate property.
3. Valuation & Documentation of Complex Assets:
   • Business Interests:
     • Collect corporate financial statements (balance sheets, income statements) for the past 3-5 years.
     • Gather business tax returns for the same period.
     • Provide partnership agreements, operating agreements, and shareholder agreements.
     • Note any outstanding loans or lines of credit related to the business.
   • Investment Portfolios & Retirement Accounts:
     • Obtain statements for all brokerage accounts, 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, stock options, and other deferred compensation plans.
     • Identify vested vs. unvested shares, and any defined benefit pension plans.
   • Trusts:
     • Provide copies of all trust documents (e.g., revocable, irrevocable, grantor retained annuity trusts – GRATs).
     • Identify the nature of the trust (marital or separate asset), and whether you are a grantor, trustee, or beneficiary.
   • Intellectual Property:
     • Document patents, copyrights, trademarks, and royalties.
     • Provide any valuation assessments or income streams generated from these assets.
   • Collections & Valuables:
     • Inventory significant art collections, jewelry, antiques, or other high-value personal property.
     • Provide appraisal documents where available.
4. Debt & Liability Assessment:
   • List All Debts: Include mortgages, home equity lines of credit, credit card balances, business loans, personal loans, and any other outstanding liabilities.
   • Provide Statements: Collect statements for all debts, indicating outstanding balances and account holders.
   • Identify Marital vs. Separate Debt: Determine if debts were incurred jointly or individually, and for what purpose, noting pre-marital debts.
5. Expenditure & Lifestyle Documentation:
   • Compile Monthly Expense Statements: Detail regular household expenses, luxury spending, and any significant or unusual expenditures.
   • Maintain a Spending Log: If possible, keep a log of significant purchases or financial transactions during the separation period.
   • Document Contributions: Record direct and indirect contributions to the marriage, including financial and non-financial (e.g., homemaking, childcare) contributions, as these are factors in equitable distribution under Virginia law.

By meticulously working through each section of the SRIS Strategic Asset Division Navigator, you provide Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. with the granular financial data necessary to build a robust case, advocate for your interests, and work towards a fair and equitable division of your marital estate in Fairfax or Loudoun County.

Legal Strategies & Defenses for High Asset Divorce

Effectively navigating a high asset divorce in Virginia requires tailored legal strategies focused on meticulous asset identification, accurate valuation, aggressive protection of separate property, and skilled negotiation or litigation to ensure an equitable distribution that safeguards your financial future.

The complexity of high net worth divorce demands strategic foresight and a nuanced application of Virginia law. As your VA high-asset divorce attorney, we employ a range of strategies to protect your interests:

1. Forensic Accounting and Business Valuation: One of the most critical strategies involves retaining skilled forensic accountants and business valuation experts. These professionals delve into complex financial records to uncover hidden assets, determine accurate income streams, and provide precise valuations of businesses, professional practices, and intricate investment portfolios. This evidence is indispensable for equitable distribution under Virginia Code § 20-107.3.
2. Tracing Separate Property: Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally. Separate property, acquired before marriage or by gift/inheritance, is generally exempt. A key strategy is to meticulously trace and document any separate property that may have been commingled with marital assets. This involves painstaking review of financial records, deeds, and other documentation to demonstrate its distinct origin and protect it from division.
3. Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: For clients with existing prenuptial or postnuptial agreements, a primary strategy involves rigorously enforcing these agreements. These contracts, when properly drafted and executed under Virginia’s Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (Virginia Code § 20-147 et seq.), can significantly streamline the divorce process by pre-determining property division and spousal support. If there are challenges to the validity of such an agreement, a robust defense strategy is essential.
4. Tax-Efficient Asset Division: The manner in which assets are divided can have significant tax implications. A seasoned Northern VA divorce lawyer will develop a strategy that considers the tax basis of assets, capital gains taxes, and the tax deductibility of spousal support, aiming to achieve an outcome that maximizes the net value retained by the client. This involves careful planning around the division of retirement accounts, stock options, and real estate.
5. Aggressive Discovery and Information Gathering: High asset divorces often involve attempts by one party to conceal assets or income. Our strategy includes employing aggressive discovery tactics, such as detailed interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and targeted depositions, to uncover all relevant financial information. This may also involve issuing subpoenas to third-party institutions.
6. Strategic Spousal Support Negotiation/Litigation: Spousal support (alimony) in high net worth cases is often contentious. Strategies involve analyzing the marital standard of living, the earning capacities of both parties, the duration of the marriage, and contributions to the marriage, as outlined in Virginia Code § 20-107.1. We aim to secure or limit support based on a comprehensive financial picture and robust legal arguments.
7. Protecting Business Interests: For clients with ownership in private businesses, strategies involve minimizing disruption to the business, preventing forced liquidation, and ensuring fair valuation that doesn’t cripple its future operations. This may include buy-outs, creative payment schedules, or offsetting assets.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., our approach is to meticulously prepare your case, anticipate opposing counsel’s moves, and tirelessly advocate for your financial well-being, whether through skillful negotiation or vigorous litigation in the Circuit Courts of Fairfax or Loudoun.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in High Asset Divorce

Avoiding critical missteps in a high asset divorce is paramount for preserving your financial standing and achieving an equitable outcome, as common errors often stem from incomplete financial disclosure, emotional decision-making, or a lack of specialized legal counsel.

Even financially sophisticated individuals can make critical errors during the emotional turmoil of divorce, especially when substantial assets are involved. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. advises clients to avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Failing to Disclose All Assets: Attempting to hide assets, whether intentionally or inadvertently, is a serious mistake. Virginia courts take a dim view of non-disclosure and can impose severe penalties, including awarding a larger portion of the marital estate to the other party, or even criminal charges for perjury. Full and transparent disclosure is not just legally required, it’s strategically sound.
2. Ignoring Tax Implications: Dividing assets without considering the tax consequences (e.g., capital gains on appreciated property, taxability of spousal support) can lead to a significantly diminished net settlement. Many individuals overlook the importance of consulting with tax professionals in conjunction with their legal counsel to ensure a tax-efficient division plan.
3. Underestimating Business or Asset Valuation: Assuming the value of a business, investment portfolio, or real estate without proper expert valuation is a grave error. An inaccurate valuation can lead to an unfair division, leaving one party significantly disadvantaged. Always engage qualified business appraisers, forensic accountants, and real estate appraisers.
4. Making Emotional Decisions: Divorce is inherently emotional, but allowing emotions to dictate financial decisions can be disastrous. Rushing to settle, refusing to negotiate rationally, or engaging in vindictive behavior can prolong the process and increase costs, often resulting in a worse outcome. Maintain a clear, objective focus on your financial goals.
5. Neglecting Separate Property Documentation: Many individuals fail to meticulously document or trace separate property that was acquired before marriage or received as a gift or inheritance. Without clear proof that an asset (or a portion of it) is indeed separate, it may be wrongly classified as marital property and subject to equitable distribution.
6. Liquidating Assets Prematurely or Without Counsel: Selling off significant assets, emptying bank accounts, or incurring substantial new debt without consulting your attorney can complicate your case, raise red flags with the court, and potentially lead to financial penalties or charges of dissipation of marital assets.
7. Not Securing Proper Legal Representation: Perhaps the biggest mistake is failing to retain a seasoned VA high-asset divorce attorney who specializes in complex financial cases. A general practitioner may lack the specific knowledge of business valuation, complex tax laws, and intricate trust structures required to effectively represent high net worth individuals in Fairfax and Loudoun.
8. Overlooking Debt & Liabilities: Focusing solely on assets while neglecting to thoroughly account for all marital debts and liabilities can lead to an unfair distribution, leaving one party burdened with a disproportionate share of the marital debt.

By being aware of these common pitfalls and working closely with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you can navigate your high asset divorce with greater confidence and secure a more favorable outcome.

Glossary of Key High Asset Divorce Terms

Understanding the specialized terminology frequently encountered in high asset divorce cases is crucial for clients to effectively communicate with their legal counsel and comprehend the intricacies of their proceedings.

Equitable Distribution

The legal principle in Virginia (under VA Code § 20-107.3) where marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally, based on various factors considered by the court.

Marital Property

Assets acquired by either spouse from the date of marriage through the date of separation, generally subject to equitable distribution.

Separate Property

Assets acquired by either spouse before marriage, or during marriage by gift or inheritance, typically not subject to equitable distribution. Can also include property acquired in exchange for separate property.

Forensic Accountant

A financial professional who investigates financial statements and records to uncover hidden assets, trace funds, or perform complex valuations, often providing expert testimony in divorce cases.

Business Valuation

The process of determining the economic value of a business or professional practice, crucial when business interests are part of the marital estate.

Spousal Support (Alimony)

Financial payments made by one spouse to the other after divorce, based on factors such as need, ability to pay, duration of marriage, and contributions, as defined in VA Code § 20-107.1.

Commingling

The mixing of separate property with marital property, which can make it challenging to distinguish and protect separate assets during equitable distribution.

Common High Asset Divorce Scenarios & Questions

High asset divorces often present unique and complex scenarios involving diverse financial holdings, necessitating specialized legal approaches to address valuation, distribution, and future financial security.

1. Scenario: The Entrepreneur’s Business
   Question: “I started a highly successful tech startup during our marriage, which is now valued at tens of millions. My spouse claims half of its current market value, but I built it from the ground up, and much of its growth is due to my individual efforts post-separation. How is this handled in a Virginia high asset divorce, especially in Fairfax County?”
   Answer: This is a common and complex scenario. In Virginia, a business started during the marriage is generally considered marital property, subject to equitable distribution. However, the valuation will be critical. Growth attributable to one spouse’s efforts *post-separation* might be argued as separate, or at least factored into the equitable distribution. We would engage a business valuation expert to assess the fair market value as of the date of separation and strategize on how to differentiate active versus passive appreciation, and protect the ongoing viability of the business.
2. Scenario: The International Real Estate Portfolio
   Question: “My spouse and I own multiple properties, including a vacation home in Florida, a commercial building in Loudoun County, and an overseas investment property. How does Virginia law, specifically equitable distribution, handle assets located outside the state or even the country?”
   Answer: Virginia Circuit Courts have jurisdiction over the parties, not necessarily over out-of-state or international real property directly. While the court cannot directly transfer ownership of property in another jurisdiction, it can order one party to convey their interest in such property to the other, or offset its value against other marital assets located in Virginia. The valuation of overseas property can be particularly challenging, requiring specialized appraisers and consideration of foreign legal systems. Your VA high-asset divorce attorney would coordinate with local counsel if necessary and ensure all assets are accurately valued and considered in the overall distribution.
3. Scenario: Inherited Wealth and Commingled Funds
   Question: “I inherited a substantial sum from my parents before my marriage. Over the years, some of it was used for joint household expenses, and a portion was invested in a joint brokerage account. Now my spouse claims it’s all marital property. Can I protect my inheritance in a Virginia divorce?”
   Answer: Inherited assets are generally considered separate property under Virginia law (VA Code § 20-107.3). However, when separate property funds are commingled with marital funds or used for marital purposes, it can become challenging to trace and protect. We would employ forensic accounting to meticulously trace the path of your inherited funds, demonstrating which portions maintained their separate character and which were transmuted into marital property. Our goal is to present clear evidence to the Fairfax or Loudoun County Circuit Court to defend your separate property claims.
4. Scenario: Executive Compensation & Deferred Benefits
   Question: “My spouse is a senior executive with significant stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), and a complex deferred compensation plan, much of which hasn’t vested yet. How are these future benefits divided in a Virginia high asset divorce?”
   Answer: This is a highly specialized area. Stock options and RSUs, especially those that vest over time, can be partially marital and partially separate, depending on when they were granted and when they vest in relation to the marriage and separation dates. Deferred compensation plans are typically marital property to the extent they accumulated during the marriage. Valuation requires careful analysis of vesting schedules, company performance, and tax implications. Often, a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) or similar order is needed to divide these benefits appropriately upon vesting, and a seasoned Northern VA divorce lawyer will work with financial experts to ensure proper valuation and distribution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About High Asset Divorce in Virginia

These frequently asked questions address common concerns and provide clear answers regarding the complexities of high asset divorce proceedings under Virginia law.

1. What defines a “high asset” divorce in Virginia?

While there’s no precise legal threshold, a high asset divorce typically involves a marital estate valued at over $1 million, often encompassing complex assets like private businesses, extensive real estate portfolios, significant investment accounts, stock options, trusts, and substantial retirement funds.

2. Is Virginia a community property state?

No, Virginia is an “equitable distribution” state. This means marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally (50/50), based on numerous factors outlined in Virginia Code § 20-107.3, including the contributions of each party to the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and the circumstances that led to the divorce.

3. How are privately held businesses valued and divided in a Virginia high asset divorce?

Valuing a privately held business typically requires a qualified business valuation expert. They use various methods (e.g., asset-based, income-based, market-based) to determine the fair market value. The marital portion of the business is then subject to equitable distribution. This might involve one spouse buying out the other’s interest, or offsetting the value against other assets.

4. Can prenuptial or postnuptial agreements be enforced in Virginia?

Yes, Virginia’s Uniform Premarital Agreement Act (Virginia Code § 20-147 et seq.) allows for the enforcement of prenuptial agreements, provided they meet specific legal requirements regarding disclosure, voluntariness, and lack of unconscionability. Postnuptial agreements can also be enforced under contract law principles.

5. How is spousal support (alimony) determined in high net worth cases in Virginia?

Spousal support in Virginia (VA Code § 20-107.1) is determined by considering numerous factors, including the income and earning capacity of each party, the duration of the marriage, contributions to the marriage, marital standard of living, age, physical and mental condition, and the circumstances leading to the divorce. In high net worth cases, the calculation considers all forms of income and the preservation of a comparable lifestyle.

6. What happens to trusts in a high asset divorce?

The treatment of trusts depends on their type (e.g., revocable vs. irrevocable), who established them, when they were established, and who the beneficiaries are. Some trusts may be considered marital property, while others, particularly those established by third parties for one spouse’s benefit, may be separate property. Complex trusts often require the input of a trust attorney or forensic accountant to determine their character and accessibility.

7. Are stock options and restricted stock units (RSUs) divisible in Virginia divorce?

Yes, stock options and RSUs can be considered marital property to the extent they were earned or accumulated during the marriage. Their division often involves complex calculations based on vesting schedules and may require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) or similar mechanism to facilitate their transfer or division upon vesting.

8. How are tax implications handled in high asset divorce settlements?

Tax implications are a critical consideration. The transfer of assets, the deductibility of spousal support, and capital gains on property sales can significantly impact the net value of a settlement. A seasoned VA high-asset divorce attorney will work with tax professionals to structure the settlement in the most tax-efficient manner possible.

9. Can one spouse hide assets in a high asset divorce?

While it is illegal, attempts to hide assets do occur. A knowledgeable Northern VA divorce lawyer will employ aggressive discovery techniques, including forensic accounting, to uncover any concealed assets or undisclosed income. Courts can impose severe penalties for such actions.

10. What role do experts play in high asset divorces?

Experts are indispensable. This includes forensic accountants, business valuation experts, real estate appraisers, and potentially tax professionals. They provide objective valuations, trace complex financial transactions, and offer expert testimony critical to presenting a comprehensive financial picture to the court.

11. How does commingling of separate and marital funds affect asset division?

When separate property funds are mixed with marital funds (commingled), or separate assets are used to acquire marital property, they can lose their separate character and become subject to equitable distribution. Forensic accounting is often necessary to trace the original source of funds and argue for the preservation of separate property.

12. What if my spouse owns an interest in a professional practice (e.g., doctor, lawyer)?

Professional practices are often treated as businesses for valuation purposes, but specific goodwill considerations (enterprise vs. personal goodwill) can be complex. A business valuation expert will assess the fair market value of the practice, which will then be factored into the equitable distribution of the marital estate.

13. How long does a high asset divorce typically take in Virginia?

The duration of a high asset divorce varies significantly based on the complexity of the assets, the level of cooperation between parties, and court docket congestion. Due to extensive discovery and valuation processes, these cases typically take longer than standard divorces, often ranging from 12 months to several years if litigation is protracted.

14. Do I need to appear in court for every step of the high asset divorce process?

Not necessarily. While you will need to appear for certain hearings, depositions, or if your case proceeds to trial, much of the discovery, negotiation, and preparation work is handled by your legal team. However, your active participation in providing financial documents and information is crucial.

For unparalleled guidance through the intricacies of high asset divorce in Virginia, particularly within Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, securing seasoned legal representation is not merely an option—it is a necessity. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. stands ready to provide the strategic counsel and diligent advocacy required to protect your substantial interests. Contact us today for a confidential case review. Call 888-437-7747.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about high asset divorce in Virginia and is not intended as legal advice. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction. Laws change frequently, and the application of law to specific facts is unique. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult with an attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. or another qualified legal professional. The use of this website or communication with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. does not establish an attorney-client relationship.