When people in Virginia consider divorce, they may wonder what plans they need to make to move forward. After all, divorce isn’t merely an emotional and personal separation; it is also a legal and financial disentanglement that can be complicated. Every year, there are around 2 million divorces across the country, and people who understand the process can be better equipped to move forward successfully. In general, there are three phases of a divorce: filing, discovery and disposition. While the final disposition of a divorce can come through a trial in family court, it can also be handled through a mediated or negotiated settlement.
There are various factors that people should consider when deciding to file for divorce. In the first place, they should be sure they want to end their marriage; due to the formal, legal aspects of divorce, it can be an expensive process. In addition, people should become familiar with the Virginia divorce laws and the necessary timelines to follow. Divorce can also be a time to consider and plan for personal goals, especially financial plans. Given that people are often making a new financial start after divorce, it is a good time to begin planning. This budgeting process will also help to answer questions such as how to handle the marital home.
When children are involved, divorce can be more complex. Child custody options can vary for different families depending on the parents’ schedules, employment requirements and location concerns. Negotiating a parenting plan can help both parents and their children to build a different relationship.
Moving toward divorce may require a lot of thought, but people ending their marriage may also benefit from professional support. A family law attorney may advise and represent a divorcing spouse on a range of legal matters, including property division, spousal support and child custody.
