“I think my divorce is uncontested but I’m not sure. What do you think?” This is a common question asked by individuals facing divorce. The answer is often straightforward, but let's dive in a bit deeper. What makes divorces take “forever” isn’t whether the parties...
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Divorce
What does it mean to be “separated” in Virginia?
As most individuals in Virginia who are contemplating divorce, you’ve probably done a bit of internet research and found out that in Virginia you have to be “legally separated” before you file for divorce; six months if you don’t have children and have a written...
Understanding spousal support in Virginia
In Virginia, spousal support, also known as alimony, is awarded based on 13 factors listed in Virginia Code Section 20-107.1. However, many of these factors blend into one another and the court tends to only look at a few key issues. Duration of the Marriage: There...
Are you eligible for an ex’s Social Security when you divorce?
A Virginia divorce can upend your financial situation, and it may have a significant impact on your retirement savings. Many people facing similar circumstances wonder if they can claim Social Security benefits based on their former spouse's work record after a...
Understanding alimony in a Virginia divorce
Navigating a divorce is never easy, and one of the many complexities you may encounter relates to alimony or spousal support. In Virginia, the courts can award alimony to either spouse to provide financial assistance during and after the divorce. However, it is...
Will you always need to pay alimony?
Alimony has its benefits for the spouse who stayed at home. However, if you are the paying party, continuing to financially support your ex might not be the most exciting thought. When you understand spousal support and how to manage your obligations, you can...
Managing the situation when your ex refuses to co-parent
Co-parenting after a separation or divorce is not always easy. It demands a great deal of patience, understanding and cooperation from both parties involved. Unfortunately, there are situations where one parent refuses to participate effectively in the process, making...
The forensic psychologist’s role in child custody disputes
Child custody disputes can be one of the most emotionally charged and difficult experiences for both parents and children. In these cases, it is essential to prioritize the best interests of the child above all else. This is where forensic psychologists come in....
Collecting Social Security using an ex-spouse’s work record
Many older Virginia residents working their way through divorces have valid concerns about having enough saved for retirement. Divorce often has a substantial impact on your retirement savings and financial future. If your spouse was the primary breadwinner in your...
What are the six stages of divorce?
Marital separation and divorce produce many life changes, usually accompanied by some level of grief. Just as people go through stages of grief when encountering death, Virginia residents commonly experience six stages of grief as they navigate the divorce process....