Key Takeaways for Virginia Divorce
- Virginia divorce involves distinct processes for property division, child custody, and spousal support, often requiring detailed legal strategy.
- Understanding the specific laws (e.g., Va. Code § 20-91 for grounds) and the roles of local Circuit Courts is crucial for a successful outcome.
- Proactive planning, thorough documentation, and a clear understanding of your goals are essential when navigating divorce in Fairfax, Loudoun, or Prince William County.
- Common pitfalls, such as failing to disclose assets or misunderstanding court procedures, can significantly impact your case.
- Engaging seasoned legal counsel early in the process provides invaluable guidance and protection of your rights and interests.
Virginia Divorce Lawyer: Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William
For over two decades, I’ve guided individuals through the intricate, often emotionally charged landscape of divorce in Virginia. The decision to dissolve a marriage is rarely simple, and its legal ramifications can be profoundly complex, particularly within bustling jurisdictions like Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties. As a senior attorney who has handled countless divorce cases, I understand that while the emotional journey is deeply personal, the legal path demands precision, foresight, and a comprehensive understanding of Virginia’s family law statutes.
This guide offers an authoritative perspective on the critical aspects of divorce in Virginia, from the foundational legal principles to the practical strategies necessary for securing a favorable resolution. My aim is to equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate this challenging period with clarity and confidence, ensuring your rights and interests—and those of your children—are robustly protected.
Consequences & Stakes of Divorce in Virginia
A Virginia divorce carries profound legal, financial, and personal consequences that extend far beyond the dissolution of a marriage, often impacting financial stability, parental rights, and future well-being. Understanding these stakes is paramount for effective legal navigation.
The implications of a divorce in Virginia are far-reaching and touch every facet of your life. Beyond the emotional toll, the legal process in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties will definitively reshape your financial future, your relationship with your children, and your overall stability. Virginia law, primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code, governs how these critical issues are resolved, and a misstep can have irreversible effects.
Financial Ramifications: Equitable Distribution and Support
One of the most significant stakes is the division of marital property and debt, known in Virginia as equitable distribution, governed by Va. Code § 20-107.3. Unlike “community property” states, Virginia aims for a fair, not necessarily equal, division. This means assets and debts accumulated during the marriage, including real estate, bank accounts, retirement funds, and businesses, are subject to the court’s discretion. The court considers factors such as contributions to the marriage, duration of the marriage, age, health, and circumstances that led to the divorce.
Spousal support (alimony), addressed under Va. Code § 20-107.1, is another critical financial component. It’s not automatically awarded; rather, courts consider factors like the parties’ financial needs, abilities to pay, contributions to the family, and fault grounds for the divorce. The duration and amount can significantly impact both parties’ financial independence post-divorce. Furthermore, child support, based on statutory guidelines (Va. Code § 20-108.2), ensures children receive appropriate financial provision, but calculating it correctly, especially for high-income earners or those with variable incomes, requires meticulous attention.
Parental Rights and Child Welfare
When children are involved, their best interests become the paramount concern for Virginia courts, as outlined in Va. Code § 20-124.2. Custody and visitation arrangements determine where children live, how time is divided, and who makes crucial decisions about their upbringing. These determinations carry immense personal weight and can affect the parent-child bond for years to come. Courts consider various factors, including the children’s age, physical and mental condition, the parents’ fitness, and the children’s preference (if mature enough). A poorly managed custody dispute can lead to strained relationships and unfavorable orders.
Legal and Procedural Consequences
Failing to adhere to court procedures, missing deadlines, or providing incomplete information can lead to severe legal consequences. Courts in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties enforce strict rules of evidence and procedure. For example, failing to disclose all marital assets can result in penalties or unfavorable property division. Moreover, certain “fault” grounds for divorce, such as adultery or cruelty (Va. Code § 20-91), can impact spousal support awards and property division, making the presentation of evidence crucial. Navigating these complexities without seasoned legal representation can leave you vulnerable to disadvantageous outcomes.
The Legal Process of Divorce in Virginia
The divorce process in Virginia is a multi-stage legal journey, beginning with initial filing and culminating in a final decree, involving specific court procedures and opportunities for negotiation or litigation within the Circuit Courts.
Understanding the procedural roadmap of a Virginia divorce is crucial for managing expectations and preparing effectively. While each case presents its unique challenges, the general framework remains consistent across Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Circuit Courts. The journey typically begins with the filing of a complaint and ends with the entry of a Final Decree of Divorce.
1. Initial Filing and Service
The divorce process commences when one spouse, known as the “Complainant,” files a “Complaint for Divorce” with the clerk of the appropriate Circuit Court. In Fairfax, Loudoun, or Prince William County, this is the local Circuit Court. This document outlines the grounds for divorce (either fault-based or no-fault), requests for property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. Once filed, the Complaint must be formally “served” upon the other spouse, the “Defendant,” ensuring they are legally notified of the proceedings. Proper service is a foundational step and is critical to the court having jurisdiction over the parties.
2. Response and Temporary Orders
Upon being served, the Defendant has a limited timeframe to file an “Answer” to the Complaint. They may also file a “Cross-Bill” if they have their own claims or requests. During this initial phase, if there are immediate needs regarding child custody, visitation, child support, or spousal support, either party can request “pendente lite” (pending litigation) orders from the court. These are temporary orders designed to provide stability and address immediate concerns while the divorce case is ongoing.
3. Discovery
Discovery is the formal legal process where both parties exchange information relevant to the case. This can include interrogatories (written questions), requests for production of documents (financial statements, tax returns, bank records), and depositions (out-of-court sworn testimony). This phase is critical for gathering the necessary data to value assets, determine income for support calculations, and build a comprehensive understanding of the marital estate and each party’s circumstances. Thorough discovery is indispensable for equitable distribution and fair support determinations.
4. Negotiation, Mediation, and Settlement
Throughout the process, especially after discovery, parties are strongly encouraged to negotiate a comprehensive settlement. This can occur through direct communication between attorneys, or through mediation, where a neutral third party facilitates discussions. A successfully negotiated agreement results in a “Marital Settlement Agreement” or “Property Settlement Agreement,” which is a legally binding contract detailing all aspects of the divorce. If an agreement is reached, it significantly streamlines the judicial process and often leads to a less contentious and more predictable outcome. Courts typically approve such agreements provided they are fair and equitable, especially concerning the children’s best interests.
5. Litigation (Trial)
If the parties cannot reach a settlement on all issues, the case proceeds to trial before a judge in the Circuit Court. There are no jury trials for divorce cases in Virginia. During the trial, both sides present evidence, call witnesses, and make legal arguments. The judge, after hearing all evidence, will render a decision on all outstanding matters, including grounds for divorce, equitable distribution, spousal support, child custody, and child support. This is often the most time-consuming and expensive part of the process, and outcomes are determined by the strength of the evidence presented and the application of Virginia law by the presiding judge.
6. Final Decree of Divorce
The culmination of the process is the entry of the “Final Decree of Divorce” by the Circuit Court. This document legally terminates the marriage and incorporates all court orders or the terms of any Marital Settlement Agreement. Once entered, the parties are legally divorced, and the terms outlined in the decree become legally enforceable orders.
The SRIS Virginia Divorce Case Planning Guide Tool
The SRIS Virginia Divorce Case Planning Guide is an essential resource designed to help you organize your thoughts, gather crucial documentation, and prepare strategically for every phase of your divorce proceedings in Virginia.
Navigating a divorce requires meticulous organization and a clear understanding of what information will be needed. Based on years of experience, I’ve developed this planning guide to empower you to approach your case systematically. This tool is designed to demystify the initial steps and ensure you have all pertinent information at your fingertips, which is invaluable when working with your legal counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Using the SRIS Virginia Divorce Case Planning Guide: A Step-by-Step Approach
- Financial Inventory Compilation:
- Gather all bank statements, investment account statements, and retirement account statements for the last 3-5 years.
- Compile credit card statements, loan documents (mortgages, car loans, personal loans), and any other debt instruments.
- Locate all tax returns (federal and state) for the last 3-5 years.
- Identify all sources of income for both spouses, including pay stubs, W-2s, 1099s, and business financial records if applicable.
- List all assets: real estate (deeds, appraisals), vehicles (titles), valuable personal property (jewelry, art), and business interests (valuation reports if available).
- Children’s Needs Assessment (if applicable):
- Document current child care arrangements, school schedules, and extracurricular activities.
- Compile medical records, educational assessments, and any special needs documentation for each child.
- Note any significant events or concerns regarding the children’s welfare or development.
- Consider your preferred custody arrangement (sole, joint legal, joint physical) and visitation schedule, explaining your rationale.
- Marital History and Background:
- Note the date and place of marriage, and the date of separation.
- Document any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.
- Summarize the reasons for the divorce, including any specific “fault” grounds (e.g., adultery, cruelty, desertion as per Va. Code § 20-91) if applicable, and any supporting evidence.
- List any domestic violence incidents, protective orders, or related legal actions.
- Goals and Priorities Definition:
- Clearly articulate your primary objectives for the divorce: Is it maximizing assets? Ensuring specific custody arrangements? Securing spousal support?
- Prioritize these goals to guide your legal strategy.
- Consider your post-divorce living situation and financial needs.
- Communication Log:
- Start a log of all communications with your spouse regarding the separation or divorce, noting dates, times, and summaries of discussions.
- Keep copies of relevant emails, texts, or other written communications.
Using this guide will not only streamline the initial consultation but also provide your legal team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. with a robust foundation to build your case, whether you are in Fairfax, Loudoun, or Prince William County.
Legal Strategies & Approaches for Divorce
Successful navigation of a Virginia divorce hinges on selecting the appropriate legal strategies, ranging from amicable negotiation to assertive litigation, tailored to your unique circumstances and objectives.
No two divorces are identical, and thus, the strategies employed must be adaptable. As a seasoned Virginia divorce attorney, I prioritize crafting a legal approach that aligns with your goals, the specifics of your case, and the dynamics of your spousal relationship. The overarching aim is always to achieve the most favorable outcome while minimizing emotional and financial strain.
Negotiation and Mediation
Whenever possible, an amicable resolution through negotiation or mediation is often the most cost-effective and least adversarial path. This approach allows you and your spouse to maintain control over the outcome, rather than leaving critical decisions to a judge. In mediation, a neutral third party facilitates discussions, helping to identify common ground and creative solutions for property division, spousal support, and child custody. A skilled divorce attorney will prepare you for these sessions, ensuring you understand your rights, the legal parameters, and how to effectively advocate for your interests within the framework of Virginia law.
Contested Litigation
When agreement proves impossible, or when significant disputes exist (e.g., complex asset division, child custody disagreements, or allegations of fault grounds under Va. Code § 20-91), litigation becomes necessary. This involves presenting your case formally in the Circuit Court. My approach in litigation is assertive and meticulously prepared. We gather compelling evidence through discovery, prepare witnesses, and present clear, persuasive arguments grounded in Virginia statutes and case law. Our objective is to protect your assets, secure appropriate support, and ensure child arrangements serve their best interests, even if it means a protracted court battle.
Addressing Fault Grounds
Virginia recognizes both “no-fault” and “fault-based” grounds for divorce (Va. Code § 20-91). While a no-fault divorce simply requires a period of separation (one year with no children, six months with a signed separation agreement and no children), proving fault grounds such as adultery, cruelty, desertion, or conviction of a felony can impact spousal support and, in some rare cases, property division. If pursuing a fault-based divorce, the strategy involves rigorous evidence collection and presentation to substantiate the claims in court. Conversely, if accused of fault, a strong defense is vital to mitigate potential adverse outcomes.
Protecting Children’s Interests
For parents, the primary strategy revolves around establishing custody and visitation arrangements that promote the children’s well-being. This requires understanding Va. Code § 20-124.2, which outlines the factors courts consider. Strategies can include proposing detailed parenting plans, advocating for sole or joint custody based on the circumstances, and demonstrating how your proposed arrangement best serves the children’s physical and emotional needs. Sometimes, this involves working with guardians ad litem or child psychologists to present a comprehensive picture to the court.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Virginia Divorce
Avoiding common pitfalls during a Virginia divorce is crucial for protecting your legal rights, financial future, and emotional well-being throughout the complex legal proceedings.
Based on two decades of experience guiding clients through divorce in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties, I’ve observed recurring missteps that can significantly undermine a case. Steering clear of these common mistakes can save you considerable time, money, and stress.
- Failing to Understand Your Financial Picture: Many individuals enter divorce without a clear grasp of their marital assets, debts, and income streams. Hiding assets or failing to disclose complete financial information can lead to severe penalties. Ignorance of your true financial standing hinders effective negotiation and can result in an unfair property division or support order. Always compile comprehensive financial documentation early on.
- Prioritizing Vengeance Over Resolution: While emotions run high during divorce, allowing anger or resentment to dictate your legal strategy is a costly mistake. Litigating every minor point for spite rather than strategic gain escalates legal fees, prolongs the process, and makes settlement far more difficult. Focus on rational, long-term outcomes.
- Neglecting Your Children’s Best Interests: Using children as pawns in a dispute or making custody decisions based on your own desires rather than their well-being will reflect poorly in court. Virginia courts prioritize the “best interests of the child” (Va. Code § 20-124.2). Focus on cooperative co-parenting and stable environments.
- Mismanaging Social Media and Communications: Anything you post online, text, or email can be used as evidence against you in court. Publicly disparaging your spouse, revealing sensitive information, or appearing irresponsible can severely harm your case, especially regarding custody or fault grounds. Maintain discretion and legal counsel guidance in all communications.
- Moving Out of the Marital Home Prematurely Without Legal Advice: While some separations are necessary, vacating the marital residence, particularly if children remain there, can inadvertently weaken your claim to the property or impact custody considerations. Always discuss this step with your attorney first.
- Delaying Legal Counsel: Many individuals try to handle the initial stages of divorce themselves or wait too long to seek legal representation. Early engagement with a seasoned Virginia divorce attorney provides strategic advantage, helps preserve evidence, and ensures crucial deadlines are met, potentially preventing irreversible errors.
- Ignoring Temporary Orders: Pendente lite orders for custody, visitation, or support are legally binding. Disregarding them can lead to accusations of contempt of court, resulting in fines, loss of custody, or even jail time. Adhere strictly to all court orders.
- Failure to Update Estate Planning Documents: Divorce has significant implications for wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Failing to update these documents post-divorce can lead to unintended beneficiaries or fiduciaries, creating complications down the line.
Glossary of Key Virginia Divorce Terms
Understanding the specialized terminology used in Virginia divorce proceedings is essential for clarity and informed decision-making throughout your case.
- Equitable Distribution
- The legal process in Virginia (Va. Code § 20-107.3) for dividing marital assets and debts fairly, though not necessarily equally, between divorcing spouses. This considers various factors rather than a strict 50/50 split.
- No-Fault Divorce
- A divorce granted without either party needing to prove marital misconduct. In Virginia (Va. Code § 20-91), it requires a period of separation (typically one year, or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children).
- Spousal Support (Alimony)
- Financial payments made by one spouse to the other after a divorce, intended to provide economic assistance. Eligibility, amount, and duration are determined by court order or agreement based on factors outlined in Va. Code § 20-107.1.
- Custody
- In the context of children (Va. Code § 20-124.2), refers to legal custody (who makes major decisions about a child’s upbringing) and physical custody (where a child primarily lives). Can be sole or joint.
- Marital Property
- Assets and debts acquired by either or both spouses during the marriage, from the date of marriage until the date of separation, which are subject to equitable distribution in Virginia.
- Grounds for Divorce
- The legally recognized reasons for dissolving a marriage in Virginia (Va. Code § 20-91), including both no-fault (separation) and fault-based grounds (e.g., adultery, cruelty, desertion).
- Pendente Lite
- Latin for “pending litigation.” Refers to temporary court orders for support, custody, or visitation issued while a divorce case is ongoing, providing stability until a final decree is entered.
Common Scenarios & Questions in Virginia Divorce
Real-world scenarios often illuminate the complexities of Virginia divorce law, providing context for common challenges and the strategic approaches required for resolution.
Clients frequently present unique situations that demand tailored legal solutions. Here are a few common scenarios encountered in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties, and the types of questions that arise:
Scenario 1: One Spouse Owns a Business
“My spouse owns a successful business they started during our marriage. How will this be divided in our Virginia divorce? What if they claim it’s their separate property?”
In this scenario, the business, or at least its marital share, will likely be subject to equitable distribution. If the business was started during the marriage, or if marital funds or effort were used to enhance its value, it’s typically considered marital property, even if titled solely in one spouse’s name. A business valuation by a qualified forensic accountant is often necessary to determine its worth. Your attorney will ensure proper discovery is conducted to uncover all relevant financial information and argue for a fair division of the marital interest in the business, considering factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Scenario 2: Disputed Child Custody and Relocation
“I want to move out of Virginia with our children after the divorce for a new job opportunity, but my spouse is strongly against it. What are my chances, and how does the court decide?”
Relocation with children is one of the most contentious issues in divorce. Virginia courts will primarily consider whether the relocation is in the “best interests of the child,” as per Va. Code § 20-124.3, rather than solely a parent’s desire. The parent seeking to relocate typically bears the burden of proving that the move serves the children’s welfare. Factors include the reasons for the move, the impact on the non-custodial parent’s visitation, the children’s ties to the community, and the proposed new environment. Strong legal advocacy demonstrating the benefits to the children while proposing a viable visitation schedule for the other parent is critical.
Scenario 3: Significant Debt Acquired During Marriage
“My spouse accumulated a significant amount of credit card debt during our marriage, without my knowledge, and now we’re divorcing. Am I responsible for half of this debt?”
Generally, debts incurred by either spouse during the marriage are considered marital debt and are subject to equitable distribution, even if only one spouse’s name is on the account. However, if the debt was incurred fraudulently or for non-marital purposes (e.g., an affair, gambling), it may be possible to argue that it should be assigned solely to the spouse who incurred it. Thorough discovery to understand the nature and purpose of the debt, along with strong legal arguments based on equitable principles, will be essential to protect you from unfair responsibility for the debt.
Scenario 4: Grounds for Divorce and Spousal Support
“My spouse committed adultery, and I want to use that as grounds for our divorce. How will this affect spousal support or property division in Virginia?”
Adultery is a fault-based ground for divorce in Virginia (Va. Code § 20-91) and, if proven, can preclude the adulterous spouse from receiving spousal support. However, there are exceptions, particularly if denying support would constitute a “manifest injustice.” While adultery generally does not directly impact equitable distribution of property, it can be a factor the court considers in the overall fairness of the division. Proving adultery requires clear and convincing evidence, which can be challenging. A seasoned attorney will assess the strength of your evidence and advise on the strategic implications of pursuing a fault-based divorce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Virginia Divorce
Q: How long does a divorce take in Virginia?
A: The duration of a Virginia divorce varies significantly based on whether it’s contested or uncontested. An uncontested no-fault divorce with a comprehensive settlement agreement can be finalized in as little as six months (if there are no minor children) or one year (if there are minor children and no agreement, or if just seeking a no-fault divorce without prior agreement). Contested divorces, involving disputes over property, custody, or support, can take much longer—from one to three years or more—due to discovery, negotiations, and court scheduling in busy jurisdictions like Fairfax, Loudoun, or Prince William.
Q: What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
A: Virginia recognizes both no-fault and fault-based grounds for divorce (Va. Code § 20-91). No-fault grounds require a one-year separation without cohabitation, or a six-month separation if there are no minor children and the parties have a signed separation agreement. Fault-based grounds include adultery, sodomy, or buggery; felony conviction with confinement for one year or more; cruelty; and desertion or abandonment.
Q: How is marital property divided in Virginia?
A: Virginia follows the principle of equitable distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3). This means marital property (assets and debts acquired during the marriage) is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. The court considers numerous factors, including the contributions of each spouse (monetary and non-monetary), the duration of the marriage, the circumstances that led to the divorce, the age and health of the parties, and the debts and liabilities of each spouse.
Q: Is spousal support (alimony) automatically awarded in Virginia?
A: No, spousal support is not automatically awarded in Virginia. A judge decides whether to award spousal support and, if so, the amount and duration, based on many factors outlined in Va. Code § 20-107.1. These factors include the financial needs and resources of each party, their earning capacities, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, contributions to the family, and any fault grounds for the divorce. Adultery, if proven, generally bars an award of spousal support unless a manifest injustice would result.
Q: How is child custody determined in Virginia?
A: Child custody in Virginia is determined based on the “best interests of the child” standard (Va. Code § 20-124.2). The court considers specific factors, including the child’s age, physical and mental condition, and needs; the physical and mental condition of each parent; the relationship existing between each parent and each child; the needs of each child; the role each parent has played and will play in the upbringing of the child; and the reasonable preference of the child, if old enough. Custody can be sole or joint, both legal (decision-making) and physical (where the child primarily resides).
Q: Do I need a Virginia divorce attorney if my divorce is uncontested?
A: While technically possible to proceed without an attorney, even an “uncontested” divorce can have complex financial, property, or child-related implications that an experienced Virginia divorce attorney can help you navigate. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected, the settlement agreement is legally sound, and all necessary documentation is filed correctly. This prevents future disputes and ensures a truly equitable outcome.
Q: What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
A: Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious training. Physical custody refers to where the child primarily lives and who is responsible for their day-to-day care. Both can be awarded solely to one parent or jointly to both parents.
Q: Can I get an annulment instead of a divorce in Virginia?
A: Annulment declares a marriage void as if it never existed, based on specific legal grounds (e.g., bigamy, fraud, incest). Divorce ends a legally valid marriage. Annulments are rare and difficult to obtain. A seasoned Virginia attorney can advise if annulment is a viable option for your specific circumstances.
Q: How does moving out of the marital home affect my Virginia divorce case?
A: Moving out of the marital home establishes the date of separation, which is crucial for a no-fault divorce. However, it can have implications for property rights, child custody, and temporary support. It’s vital to discuss this with your attorney before moving, especially if children are involved, to understand potential impacts and plan strategically.
Q: What if my spouse is hiding assets?
A: If you suspect your spouse is hiding assets, your attorney can utilize various discovery tools, such as interrogatories, requests for production of documents (bank statements, tax returns, business records), and depositions, to uncover hidden marital property. In some cases, forensic accountants may be engaged to trace assets. Virginia courts take the concealment of assets seriously, and such actions can lead to unfavorable outcomes for the concealing party during equitable distribution.
Q: How are retirement accounts divided in a Virginia divorce?
A: Retirement accounts accumulated during the marriage are considered marital property and are subject to equitable distribution. Dividing these assets typically requires a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), a special court order that instructs the plan administrator on how to distribute the funds without incurring immediate tax penalties. This is a complex area requiring precise legal drafting.
Q: Can I modify a divorce order after it’s final?
A: Some aspects of a final divorce order, particularly those related to child custody, visitation, and child support, can be modified if there has been a “material change in circumstances” since the entry of the original order and if the modification is in the children’s best interests. Spousal support orders may also be modifiable under certain conditions, though property division orders are generally final and non-modifiable. Any modification requires filing a new petition with the court.
Q: What is the role of mediation in a Virginia divorce?
A: Mediation involves a neutral third-party mediator helping divorcing spouses communicate and negotiate a settlement agreement on issues like property division, custody, and support. It’s often a less adversarial and more cost-effective alternative to litigation, allowing parties to retain more control over the outcome. While voluntary, courts often encourage or even mandate mediation in certain cases in Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties before a trial date is set.
Q: What documents do I need for a Virginia divorce?
A: Essential documents include marriage certificates, birth certificates of children, tax returns (past 3-5 years), pay stubs, bank statements, investment account statements, retirement account statements, loan documents, deeds to property, vehicle titles, credit card statements, and any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Your attorney will provide a comprehensive checklist.
Q: How is child support calculated in Virginia?
A: Child support in Virginia is calculated based on statutory guidelines outlined in Va. Code § 20-108.2, which primarily consider the gross monthly income of both parents, the number of children, health insurance costs, and childcare expenses. While the guidelines provide a presumptive amount, courts can deviate if it’s found to be unjust or inappropriate after considering various factors. A precise calculation often requires an attorney to ensure all relevant income and expenses are correctly factored.
Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential case review. Call us at 888-437-7747 today.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about Virginia divorce law and is not intended as legal advice. The information is not exhaustive and does not create an attorney-client relationship. You should consult with a qualified Virginia divorce attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Laws are subject to change and vary by jurisdiction. Reliance on the information contained herein is at your own risk.
