Marriages can sometimes end amicably, making divorce a relatively simple and clean process. However, many divorces can be painful, expensive, and complex.
Once you’ve agreed to divorce, you and your spouse will have to navigate the murky waters of settlement agreements, court documents, alimony/spousal support arrangements, and child custody/support, if you have minor children. To ensure you’re following the proper legal procedures – and that you have a positive and mutually beneficial outcome – you should seek the services of a qualified divorce attorney.
You can start this process by setting up an appointment with an experienced divorce lawyer in your local area. Your attorney will act as your guide and advocate, and the initial consultation is the best time for you to clear up any uncertainties or concerns you might have. Here are some common divorce questions you’ll want to ask when you meet with your attorney.
1. Are we eligible to file for divorce right now?
According to Virginia’s divorce laws, couples filing for a no-fault divorce must have been separated for 12 full months if they have minor children, or six full months, with no minor children and a signed settlement agreement. However, the rules and timelines are different if you are filing for an at-fault divorce on grounds such as adultery, cruelty, or desertion. Your attorney will be able to tell you how soon you can file for divorce.
2. Who will get custody of our children?
For couples with minor children, determining custody arrangements can be one of the messiest parts about divorce. If you and your spouse can’t reach an agreement on your own, a judge will have the task of deciding what’s in the best interest of your minor child(ren). Many factors are considered here, so you’ll want to ask your divorce attorney what your options are regarding custody, and what a judge will take into account. Your attorney can help you understand the most likely outcome given your unique situation, and can guide you in choosing which battles to fight and which to concede.
3. Do I have to pay (or will I receive) alimony/spousal support?
The amount of spousal support you may request (or will have to pay) is highly dependent on your individual circumstances. Your custody arrangements (if minor children are involved) and who earns the majority of income in your household can have an effect on your outcome. Ask your divorce attorney early on what you should expect to pay or receive, so you can plan your finances accordingly.
4. How do we split our assets?
If you and your spouse did not sign a prenuptial agreement, you may not know how to fairly split your assets in your impending divorce. Dividing marital property can be complicated, and if you and your spouse can’t reach an amicable, mutually beneficial agreement, you may need to bring this question before a judge. If there is a dispute over who should receive which assets, your attorney can help you better understand your chances of a favorable ruling.
5. What should I expect during my divorce hearing?
If you haven’t been through a divorce before, the idea of appearing before a judge to sort out your issues could be intimidating. Ask your divorce attorney what to expect in the preparation of a hearing, including what information you should have ready to present. Although no two cases are alike, your divorce lawyer should be able to provide you some idea of what will occur.
6. Do we really have to go to court?
A no-fault divorce can result in an amicable split without any divorce hearings in court. The first step in this process is drafting a marital settlement agreement. This document requires you and your spouse to decide how you will divide property, who gets primary custody, and the amount of spousal or child support to be paid, if any is needed. An experienced divorce attorney can help you craft this document and review it to ensure it’s fair for both parties.
Contact the Law Office of Patricia E. Tichenor for help with your divorce.
Whether you’re just beginning the separation process or you’re ready to file for divorce, the Law Office of Patricia E. Tichenor can help. We’ve spent nearly two decades helping Virginia residents with settlement agreements, divorce cases, and other family law matters. Contact us to discuss your situation and begin the divorce process.
