Experienced in contested and uncontested divorce: division of property, alimony, child support, custody and more.
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4429 Bonney Rd. ste 110
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
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Experienced Family Law Attorney
We will protect your interests
Divorce is stressful, but you do not need to face this alone. Partnering with the right divorce lawyer is the most important decision you will make. Deering Hedrick is experienced in all aspects of divorce law and we are highly recommended by our clients. Call us now for a contested divorce consultation.
What does “contested” mean in a divorce?
In a contested divorce, the partners cannot agree on one or more crucial issues that must be dealt with when ending a marriage. They could decide from the beginning that they are not willing to compromise or negotiate, or they could attempt mediation or negotiations and not be able to agree. When this happens, the terms of the divorce will be determined by their jurisdiction’s circuit court.
What can I expect from a contested divorce?
Because there are so many factors to take into account when debating over things like child custody, property division, or spousal support, you’ll need help from an experienced attorney from the get-go. A family lawyer can change the outcome to your advantage. Whether your divorce case is simple or complex, we have the experience and tools to ensure the best outcome for you and your family. We can help you explore your options and negotiate with your spouse. If you are considering divorce, we are here to help. Contact us to schedule your divorce case consultation today.
How long does a contested divorce take in Virginia?
Uncontested divorces usually take two to three months and contested divorces can take up to eighteen months. If you have gone through a contested divorce, and if there is no appeal, your divorce will be finished thirty days after the judge signs the final decree.
How contested divorces proceed
At the outset of any contested divorce, your attorney can outline the general steps and timelines your case is likely to follow.
- The first stage of a contested divorce is a pendente lite hearing. The court decides on temporary living arrangements regarding matters such as child and spousal support and custody while the divorce proceeding is in court. The conditions of the final order for divorce may or may not change from the pendente lite order.
- Next comes the discovery process, where the contested divorce attorneys learn about the assets and financial positions of the other side.
- Finally, at an equitable distribution hearing, the judge permanently divides custody, spousal support and property.
10 Years of Experience
Passion for family law
Experience dealing with complex divorce issues
The Basics of Divorce in Virginia
Legally divorcing in Norfolk, Chesapeake, Virginia Beach or anywhere in Virginia requires that either you or your spouse be a resident of Virginia or a member of the armed forces stationed in Virginia for six months.
To obtain an uncontested divorce, either spouse can file for divorce provided the two parties have lived separate and apart for at least one year, and the divorce papers claim that irreconcilable differences have caused a breakdown in the marriage. If the couple does not have children, the spouses can enter into a separation agreement and receive their divorce after being separated for only six months.
For a contested divorce, if the spouses are separated less than one year and are not in agreement that a divorce should occur, the spouse seeking a divorce must prove specific grounds for divorce.
