Family Law Services in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

Divorce and Separation

Whether you’re pursuing a no-fault divorce, navigating a contested divorce, or dealing with sensitive issues like child custody and property division, I am here to advocate for your interests and protect your rights throughout the process.

Divorce in Virginia: Understanding Fault, No-Fault, and Key Legal Options

Virginia offers two main avenues for divorce: no-fault and fault-based. Most individuals choose the no-fault option, as it tends to be more cost-effective and less adversarial. To qualify, spouses must live separately and apart without cohabitation for at least one year—or six months if there are no minor children and a signed separation agreement is in place.

Virginia also recognizes fault-based divorces, with grounds including adultery, cruelty, abandonment, and felony conviction. While filing on fault grounds may seem advantageous in some cases, it often leads to a more contentious and emotionally charged process. Accusations can be contested, requiring additional evidence and court time, which may increase legal costs and extend the timeline. Importantly, proving fault does not always guarantee a significantly different financial or custody outcome.

It’s also worth noting that even if a divorce is filed under the “no-fault” category, that doesn’t automatically mean it’s amicable or simple. Disagreements about custody, property division, or spousal support can still result in a contested case.

Contested vs. Uncontested Divorce in Virginia

A contested divorce occurs when spouses cannot agree on one or more critical issues—such as child custody, spousal support, or division of assets and debts. These disputes may require formal discovery, mediation, or a full trial before a judge.

In contrast, an uncontested divorce means both parties agree on all major terms, including finances, custody, and property division. These cases generally move faster, involve less stress, and cost less in legal fees. For couples who are able to cooperate, this route offers a more peaceful and efficient path to closure.

Name Changes, QDROs, and Legal Document Corrections

Family law isn't just about major decisions—it’s also about ensuring your personal and financial information aligns with your current life circumstances. I assist clients with legal name changes, Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs), and corrections to vital documents like marriage licenses or divorce decrees. While these may seem like minor tasks, they are essential for protecting your rights and maintaining accurate legal and financial records.

Name Changes

Whether you're changing your name due to divorce, gender transition, personal reasons, or on behalf of a minor child, the process requires formal court approval and thorough documentation. In both Virginia and Washington, D.C., this typically involves filing a petition and attending a court hearing. I provide step-by-step guidance, prepare all necessary filings, and ensure that the name change is accurately reflected in legal records, government IDs, and other essential documents.

Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs)

A QDRO allows for the legal division of retirement accounts—like 401(k)s or pensions—during a divorce or legal separation without triggering tax penalties. Each retirement plan has its own rules, so QDROs must be carefully tailored to meet both legal and administrative requirements. I work with clients and plan administrators to draft and review QDROs, ensuring a fair and compliant division of retirement benefits.

Corrections to Marriage Licenses and Divorce Decrees

Clerical errors in legal documents—such as misspelled names, incorrect dates, or other mistakes—can create complications when updating records or claiming benefits. If your marriage or divorce occurred in Virginia or D.C., I can help you file correction requests with the appropriate court or agency, submit the necessary evidence, and ensure your legal documents are accurate and current.