Equitable Distribution In Virginia
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning that marital property is divided equitably between spouses. The term equitable means fair and just. Property acquired during a marriage is typically classified as marital, with limited exceptions. Separate property includes property acquired by a spouse prior to a marriage and limited property acquired during a marriage, including property acquired by gift or inheritance.
While courts must divide marital property in an equitable fashion, the term equitable does not require an even 50-50 split. When spouses are unable to reach an agreement concerning property division, the court has considerable discretion to determine how to divide marital property in a manner it considers equitable.
Given the discretion that courts have to divide property in an equitable fashion, it is critical that you have a skilled divorce attorney on your side who can negotiate a favorable division of property or make a compelling case on your behalf at trial. You can find the strong advocate you require at The Alan W. Broome Law Firm.
Spousal Support Attorney
Spousal support — sometimes referred to as alimony — is a complex issue which may significantly impact your rights during and after a divorce. If you are facing the prospect of divorce and you or your spouse may seek spousal support, protect your rights by retaining an experienced divorce lawyer.
You can find the skilled and knowledgeable representation you require at The Alan W. Broome Law Firm. We practice primarily in family law. We have represented hundreds of clients in divorce and family law matters. To schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your spousal support options, contact our law office in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Spousal Support In Virginia
You and your spouse may negotiate an agreement concerning spousal support. If you are unable to reach an agreement, it becomes a matter for the court.
Virginia law grants judges considerable discretion. Courts have discretion to grant or deny spousal support and to fashion a spousal support order in an amount and for a duration it determines appropriate. In addition, courts may award temporary spousal support during a divorce.
Both temporary and permanent spousal support (support after a divorce) may be granted by a court after considering many factors:
- Each spouse's obligations, needs and financial resources, including, but not limited to, income from all pension, profit-sharing or retirement plans, of whatever nature
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The duration of the marriage
- The spouses' ages and physical and mental conditions, and any special circumstances of the family
- Both spouses' earning capacities, including their skills, education and training, and the present employment opportunities for persons possessing such earning capacity
- Decisions regarding employment, career, economics, education and parenting made by spouses during the marriage, and their effect on present and future earning potential of the spouses
- Other equitable factors impacting the rights and interests of the parties
Given the significant discretion that courts have to determine how to resolve spousal support disputes, it is critical that you retain a skilled divorce lawyer who can negotiate a favorable agreement on your behalf or make a compelling case on your behalf at trial if you are unable to reach an agreement. You can rely on The Alan W. Broome Law Firm, for the strong advocacy you require.
Separation Or Property Settlements
In a separation or property settlement agreement, parties may contract with each other with respect to many things, including the rights and obligations regarding any real and personal property, the custodial arrangements for the minor children, and the amounts of spousal and child support. Once signed by both spouses, the agreement is presented to the court and the terms of the agreement become part of a court order with which both parties must comply.
Because of the importance and long term effect of entering into an agreement, it is important to keep in mind that you should seek the advice of counsel prior to signing anything you may waive legal rights you do not even realize exist.
We at The Alan W. Broome Law Firm generally believe that the most effective way to resolve a family law issue is by agreement as the parties have the ability to craft a unique agreement to meet their needs, and the fees associated with settlement are typically lower than that of litigation. We have experience in drafting agreements and can assist you in negotiating and drafting an agreement so that all of your rights are protected.
Please do not hesitate to contact our law office online or call 757-714-3720 to schedule a free 30-minute consultation.
Military Divorce
Virginia is home to many renowned military bases and institutions. At The Alan W. Broome Law Firm, we are proud to offer legal services to military service members and their spouses.
Members of the military and their spouses face many of the same issues as other couples when faced with the prospect of marriage:
- Child custody
- Visitation
- Equitable division of property
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Child support
However, there are also several unique factors that impact the rights of military service members and their spouses during and after divorce:
- Child custody designations and visitation schedules should be carefully contemplated to take into account the possible impact of deployment.
- Custody and visitation agreements should also take into account scenarios in which one or both parents relocate.
If you, or your, spouse are a member of the military you can rely on the experienced family law attorneys at The Alan W. Broome Law Firm. We provide the quality legal representation and superior client service you deserve. We take pride in offering highly personalized, accessible and responsive representation to each of our valued clients.
We offer competitive rates and skilled and knowledgeable counsel. Because we practice predominately in divorce and family law, you can be confident that you will have a strong advocate on your side.
