Understanding Divorce Law

Marriages that are irreconcilable are faced with the decision to pursue divorce. The Duff Law Firm, a divorce law firm providing legal services for divorce in Leesburg, represents either spouse through the emotional and sometimes tumultuous transition of divorce. The firm's divorce attorneys in Fairfax listen with care, understanding, and respect and provide options that best support all parties involved in a divorce.

Virginia Divorce Law

Divorce law in the Commonwealth of Virginia is governed by statute. The laws for filing and procedures for pursuing a divorce can be complex. The Duff Law Firm's divorce attorneys have years of experience in providing efficient and equitable solutions to their clients.

Residency

Before a client may even file for divorce, there is a requirement to establish residency. One party to a divorce must be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia for six (6) months before filing for divorce.

Grounds for Divorce

In Virginia, there are certain qualifications that must be met in order to move forward with a divorce settlement. The spouse pursuing the divorce must provide grounds for divorce. This proof must be provided before a spouse files for divorce. According to Virginia Code § 20-91, grounds recognized by the courts include fault and no fault:

Fault

• Adultery outside the marriage
• Felony conviction with at least one year confinement and cohabitation is not resumed after confinement
• Cruelty and reasonable apprehension of bodily harm
• Willful desertion or abandonment

No Fault

No-fault divorce is allowed when the parties have lived separately and apart with no cohabitation and without interruption for one year (or if you are living separate and apart for six (6) months with no minor children and have a written settlement agreement).

Proceeding with Divorce

Divorce in Leesburg, Virginia may be contested or uncontested. Contested means that the parties cannot agree on certain aspects of the divorce and this requires the court to intervene and render decisions regarding the divorce, child custody, and equitable distribution of property. Uncontested is when the divorce is acceptable to both sides. When a divorce is uncontested, there are options in how to proceed.

The Duff Law Firm's attorneys are experienced in negotiating, mediating, as well as representing clients in divorce court.

Leesburg Divorce Law Firm's Guidance in Transition and Support

The Fairfax and Leesburg divorce law firm understands the dynamics and sensitivity of family law and divorce. The divorce laywers in Leesburg provide legal guidance as to the best options for a client's situation. They work diligently towards the efficient and equitable dissolution of marriage.

Call The Duff Law Firm at 1-703-591-7475 to Schedule a Confidential Appointment with an Attorney.