Massaponax, VA Divorce Lawyers

Qualified Divorce Attorneys Representing Residents of Massaponax

If you are going through a divorce, you may have some pressing questions about what the future will hold. Concerns about finances and other sensitive family issues can lead to friction between you and your spouse, potentially requiring court intervention. Whether or not you expect a difficult divorce, securing legal representation is highly advisable.

At Meyer & Bowden, PLLC, our Massaponax divorce attorneys have over 50 years of combined experience. We have a long history of helping our clients during complicated divorce proceedings, providing insightful, personalized counsel for a wide variety of issues. You can trust us to stand by you throughout your case, making sure your concerns are heard in and outside of the courtroom.

What Happens During Property Division?

In a Virginia divorce, property division follows the principle of equitable distribution, which does not require an equal split, but rather a fair one based on the circumstances of the divorce. This may seem straightforward, but it can be complicated when spouses disagree about how much an asset is worth.

Complex assets such as business interests, rental real estate, retirement accounts, and professional practices often require valuation experts. A certified appraiser may determine the current market value of real property, while a forensic accountant can analyze business records to establish the worth of a closely held company.

Once values are established, the court considers factors including each spouse's contributions to the acquisition of the asset, the length of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party. Marital debts are likewise divided in a manner that the court deems just. Spouses may negotiate a settlement agreement that addresses both assets and liabilities, or the court will issue its own decree if parties cannot agree.

Who Gets Custody of the Children in a Divorce?

Virginia law does not presume that custody should be awarded to either the mother or the father. Instead, custody decisions hinge on the child's best interests, assessed through factors such as the child's age, health, and emotional ties to each parent. The court may review each parent's ability to provide a stable home environment, the child's relationship with siblings, and each parent's willingness to facilitate visitation with the other.

Custody is divided into distinct responsibilities. Physical custody determines where the child lives and who provides daily care, while legal custody addresses decision-making authority over education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Our attorneys can help you advocate for a custody arrangement that allows you to spend meaningful time with your child while giving you input in major life choices.

Alimony Disputes in Virginia Divorces

Spousal support, often called alimony, is not automatic in Virginia divorces. A party seeking support must demonstrate a need and the other party's ability to pay. The court evaluates factors such as the length of the marriage, the standard of living established during the marriage, and the financial standing of each spouse. Expenses related to health insurance, retirement contributions, and earning capacity also influence the award.

Temporary support may be ordered while divorce is ongoing, and rehabilitative support can be awarded after the decree. Rehabilitative support aims to enable a spouse to become self-supporting, usually until the recipient spouse acquires the necessary training or education to earn a stable living. In rare cases, permanent support may continue indefinitely unless circumstances change substantially. Either party may petition the court to modify support if there is a material change in income, employment, or health.

Meet With a Massaponax, Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our firm can clarify your rights under Virginia law and advocate vigorously on your behalf. Call 703-722-8692 or contact our Massaponax, Virginia divorce attorneys to discuss how we can help you navigate complex property division, custody decisions, and alimony disputes.