Once parents decide that they’re going through a divorce, they have to tell the children. This isn’t a pleasant conversation, but it’s one that’s necessary. One of the most important things to do during this conversation is to assure them that the divorce isn’t their...
Northern Virginia Family Law Blog
Who pays for marital credit cards after a divorce?
Spouses typically share almost everything with one another. They sleep in the same beds and eat the same meals. They combine their retirement savings and their checking accounts. They also frequently share their debts. They may open joint credit cards to cover...
What factors do courts consider in custody modification cases?
When a parent seeks to change a child custody arrangement, the court does not make that decision lightly. A custody modification can affect where a child lives, how much time they spend with each parent and how decisions are made about their care. Because of these...
What financial documents are required for divorce?
Dividing finances during a divorce in Virginia requires a clear picture of both parties’ financial circumstances. Courts use this information to divide property fairly and determine support obligations. To do this, each spouse must disclose key financial documents....
What if co-parents can’t agree on child-related decisions?
When co-parenting after a divorce, you and your ex could run into some conflicts over how certain decisions should be made. For example, maybe your child graduated from elementary school and needs to enroll in middle school. You think that a certain school would be...
Do you have a right to your ex’s retirement benefits?
Depending on your age when you’re getting divorced, your retirement options may be at the forefront of your mind. For instance, the rate of divorce for those who are 65 years old and older has tripled over the last few decades. Couples around this age are often...
Can your child choose which parent they live with?
You’re worried about losing your connection with your child after the divorce. The problem isn’t necessarily your spouse, however, but your child’s own preference. When you told them that the two of you were going to get divorced, they told you that they only wanted...
3 common challenges when dividing investments during divorce
Investing is an important financial strategy for people thinking about the future. Married couples often develop investment plans as a way to increase their personal wealth and prepare for retirement. They buy stocks, acquire vacant parcels of land, purchase gold or...
Will your FEHB coverage continue if you divorce a federal worker?
It’s certainly a stressful time for federal employees here in Northern Virginia and across the country. If you’re considering or already planning a divorce (and you and/or your spouse is a federal employee), the temperature in Washington can definitely add uncertainty...
Does divorce mean you have to return your engagement ring?
One conflict a couple sometimes runs into during a divorce is what to do with the engagement ring. An engagement ring can be a significant investment. Many people spend thousands of dollars, if not tens of thousands, on them. As a result, both spouses may see the ring...