Military Divorce Lawyers in Virginia Beach

Military divorces involve unique circumstances that require legal experience. Our military divorce lawyers in Virginia Beach offer legal support to service members and their families, ensuring that all aspects of the process are handled with precision and care. Whether it’s addressing residency requirements, spousal support, or custody arrangements, our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of your divorce with professionalism and understanding.

Understanding Military Divorce:

Divorces between the military and civilian world differ in several important ways. Understanding these distinctions is vital to navigating the legal system efficiently.

Jurisdiction and Residency Requirements:

Selecting the right filing jurisdiction is one of the first obstacles in a military divorce. Residency requirements might get complicated because military families frequently relocate. In Virginia, at least one spouse must be a resident for a minimum of six months before filing for divorce. However, military personnel stationed in Virginia may be exempt from this residency requirement.

Child Custody and Support:

Child support and custody are crucial concerns in any divorce, but military couples encounter extra difficulties because of deployments and moves. Virginia courts consider the stability and continuity of the child’s surroundings when determining what is in the child’s best interests. It’s common for military parents to create intricate parenting plans that consider training and deployment schedules.

Spousal Support:

In military divorces, spousal support, or alimony, is determined by considering the same variables as in civilian divorces: the duration of the wedding, the standard of living during the wedding, and the financial resources and needs of both spouses. Virginia courts may also consider the impact of military service on a spouse’s employment and educational opportunities.

Choosing the Right Military Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach:

Choosing the right lawyer is essential for navigating a military divorce. Consider the following key factors:

Experience:

Seek out a legal professional who has experience in military divorce situations. Divorce in the military has special legal challenges that require an attorney familiar with the nuances of military benefits.  

Understanding of Military Culture:

A lawyer with experience in military culture and the rigors of military life can offer more sensible and sympathetic counsel. They will be aware of the pressures and limitations that come with serving in the military and how they may affect divorce proceedings.

Reviews and Reputation:

Examine prospective attorneys’ reputations by reading reviews and client endorsements. A history of beneficial results and encouraging comments can give you confidence in your decision.

Communication and Availability:

In every legal process, communication must be done effectively. Make sure the attorney you select is reachable and accommodating, keeping you updated and involved at every stage of the divorce proceedings. Because military schedules are unpredictable, it’s critical to have a lawyer who can work with your availability.

Costs and Fees for Legal Services:

Talk about the attorney’s fee schedule up front to minimize any surprises. While some attorneys charge by the hour, others may provide flat pricing for particular services. Please make sure you are aware of the associated charges and whether they fall within your means.

The Process of Military Divorce in Virginia Beach:

Knowing the procedures and being ready for each step is essential to navigating the divorce process.

First Consultation:

Setting up an initial meeting with a military divorce attorney is the first step. You will talk about your goals, worries, and situation during this discussion. The attorney will lay out the following steps and give an outline of the legal procedure.

Filing for Divorce:

Your military divorce lawyers in Virginia Beach will assist you in preparing and submitting the required paperwork to the relevant court after you decide to move forward. Divorce in Virginia may be filed on either blame or no-fault grounds. Living apart for a minimum of a year, or six months if there are no young children and a separation agreement is in place, is one of the no-fault grounds. Among the fault grounds are abandonment, brutality, and infidelity.

Discovery and Negotiation:

During the discovery process, data regarding assets, debts, and other pertinent matters are gathered. Your attorney will help you gather the necessary records and information. Negotiation is often a crucial part of the process to reach agreements on issues such as property division, child custody, and support.

Court Proceedings:

The trial may be necessary in this case if a settlement cannot be reached. In court, your attorney will speak on your behalf and provide arguments and supporting documentation. Virginia courts will consider the facts of your case as well as the state law when making decisions.

Finalizing the Divorce:

A final divorce decree is granted once all issues have been settled, either by a judge’s ruling or through settlement negotiations. This legal dissolution of the marriage sets forth the conditions of the divorce, such as the division of assets, custody agreements, and support duties.

With over 50 years of combined legal experience, our attorneys at The Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. bring unparalleled knowledge and competence to every case. Don’t let the complexities of a military divorce add to your stress. Let our team of military divorce lawyers in Virginia Beach guide you through the process with compassion. 

We are prepared to achieve a beneficial outcome for you and your family. Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can help you find the legal solutions you need during this challenging time.