Family Law Lawyer in Leesburg, VA

Family law is a broad and important area of the law. Family law addresses divorce, the terms of divorce, and much more. This includes post-divorce term modifications, legal separations, child custody terms outside of marriage, and prenuptial agreements. Protect your rights from the outset by consulting with an experienced Leesburg family law lawyer early on.

Divorce and the Terms of Divorce in Leesburg

Divorce and the terms of divorce are a key component of family law. Every divorce case and all related cases are unique to the people and circumstances involved, but the basic terms do not vary, including:

• Physical custody, which determines when the children live with one parent or the other
• Legal custody, which determines decision-making authority for matters like the children’s education, health care, participation in extracurriculars, and religious upbringing
• Child support, which is based on the income of each parent and is generally paid by the higher earner
• The equitable, or fair, division of marital property, which is not necessarily equal in Virginia
• Alimony, which is based on financial disparity and need

Term Modifications

The terms of divorce are based on the relevant circumstances at the time. A significant change in those relevant circumstances can support a post-divorce term modification in relation to child support, child custody, or alimony.

Child Custody and Child Support Outside of Marriage and Divorce

When parents who were never married break up, child custody and child support must be determined outside of a divorce case. These cases, however, are guided by the same best interest factors.

Separation 

Virginia offers what is called divorce from bed and board, which amounts to a court-ordered separation. These cases are based exclusively on fault grounds, such as cruelty or desertion. This separation order allows the couple to live separately, and while they address the terms of divorce, the couple remains legally married.

Mediation

Mediation offers those facing family law cases an alternative dispute resolution process. If you and your ex can’t reach a mutually agreeable settlement on the matter at issue between yourselves, mediation can help. Mediation involves you and your trusted family law attorney, your ex, and their meeting with a professional mediator who serves in the role of a neutral third party. Their job is to help you explore your options and to expand on the compromises you’ve managed to reach so far.

Prenuptial Agreements

Prenuptial agreements are legally binding contracts that couples create prior to marriage and that go into effect upon marriage. In a prenup, you can address how specific terms of divorce will be resolved in the event your marriage ends. Another consideration often included in prenuptial agreements is inheritance rights.

Reach Out to an Experienced Leesburg, VA, Family Law Attorney Today

The persuasive Leesburg family law lawyers at Bristle Schulze dedicate our imposing practice to helping valued clients like you obtain optimal case outcomes that support their rights and bolster their futures. Learn more by contacting us online or giving our firm a call at 703-454-0701 today.