Representing Women Exclusively

in Divorce, Custody, & Support

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Divorce

We’re as comfortable negotiating agreements as we are in the courtroom, and we’ll help make sure you get the result you deserve.

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Separation

Legal separation is the framework for your divorce case; you’ll have to prove separation later.

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Child Custody

Whether you negotiate an agreement or litigate custody and visitation, you’ll need to take steps to keep your children safe.

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Finances

Can you afford divorce? From support to property division and retirement, you should be asking these questions to help craft a better future.

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Collaborative

Could a team-based approach, with a commitment to staying out of court, be the right option for you? Learn about collaborative divorce

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Welcome to our Family

Representing Women Exclusively in Divorce, Custody & Support

Envision where you’d like to be, and work backwards from there. In most cases, the divorce and custody attorney has a lot to do with where you wind up, and whether you’re capable of getting that fresh new start you’ve imagined.

At Hofheimer Family Law Firm, we have experience representing women only in divorce, custody, and support cases in Virginia. We’re familiar with your concerns, and we’ll work with you to help you create a custom solution that addresses your needs and priorities, and keeps your family’s well being at the forefront.

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Our Reputation

Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Caitlin knows the law

I believe Caitlin knew the law and was able to put most of my concerns to rest. She really addressed things that I was worried about.

Jennifer H., Portsmouth, VA

Sheera gave me information I never could’ve found

Sheera Herrell anticipated my questions almost before I could ask them. She provided thorough explanations of the process and my various options. The ease with which she presented the information and the fact that she made me feel completely comfortable. If or when I decide to proceed, I will definitely hire her. I just haven’t decided yet. There’s a lot to consider. I could never have found all this information on my own. She explained things rather than just presenting the facts. Although I have never sought a family law attorney, I believe I’m an excellent judge of character. To me, that is more important than some success rate.

Anna K., Virginia Beach, VA

Lorna is helping me through a tough time

I am a mom with two children from two dads. When I spoke to Lorna, she was realistic and patient. I am looking forward to her help in this process.

Tifani B., Virginia Beach, VA

Ashli helped me see that I am done!

Ashli was just really attentive and got my brain considering options I hadn’t before. Now I’m not going to wait two years. She didn’t gasp at anything, but she allowed me to realize how over his mistreatment I really am. Also, I didn’t feel pressured to do anything. I was planning on waiting 2 years to get out of this horrible”marriage,” turns out I’m done now. I highly recommend this firm.

Anne P., Newport News, VA

Caitlin Walters was knowledgeable and honest

I am specifically looking for an attorney with military divorce knowledge and experience. Caitlin listened with understanding. I attended a Saturday session years ago. This helped me understand the one on one process w/moving forward. I am working on collecting the money needed for the retainer and looking forward to working with this team.

Heather G., Virginia Beach, VA

Caitlin made me feel at ease

I am a working mom with two beautiful girls. It was very easy to make an appointment with the firm. Caitlin Walters was very helpful in explaining how things would look depending on the situation and cooperation of my spouse. I have a good feeling about the firm’s values.

Felicia H., Suffolk, VA

Lorna is very kind

Lorna is making a very difficult time easier to navigate through. She’s kind, doesn’t tell me what I want to hear but what I need to hear, and was reassuring and understanding. I am a separated mom of 2 daughters and currently working on going through a divorce. She was very reassuring and kind.

 

 

Sara C., Virginia Beach, VA

I feel more confident

I am a separated mom with one child. I feel confident after speaking with Ashli that she can help me with my case. She is easy to talk to and down to earth.

Alison S., Newport News, VA

I feel confident after my consult with Mrs. Rhoades

Lorna was very kind and informative. She did not make me feel uncomfortable and made me feel like she was actually addressing my concerns, needs, and my interests. Previously I met with another attorney who made me feel uncomfortable about my situation and as though I was not entitled to anything. However, Mrs. Rhoades did not make me feel uncomfortable and made me feel like she was actually addressing my concerns, needs, and my interests. She was informative and encouraging. I learned a lot during my consultation and feel confident and comfortable moving forward with my divorce.

Ashley S., Chesapeake, VA

Information & Resources

HofLaw_Report_CollaborativeDivorce_HighRes-Cover

Collaborative Divorce

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How Virginia Moms LOSE Custody

Cast-of-Characters-white

The “Cast of Characters” in Your Custody Case

Who-Wins-Custody-Cases

Who Wins: Custody in Contested Cases

Relocation-white

Special Issues in Virginia Child Custody Case: Relocation

Abuse-teal-1

Special Issues in Virginia Child Custody Case: Physical or Sexual Abuse

Reunification-white

Special Issues in Virginia Child Custody Case: Reunification

Second-Saturday-White-Paper

Divorce Seminar Options for Virginia Women

Beware-the-GAL-white

Beware the Guardian ad Litem

Breastfeeding-teal

Breastfeeding as a Factor in Child Custody and Visitation Decisions

Divorce and Custody Information for Virginia Women

You’re making important decisions, and it’s important that you have access to as much information as possible so that you’re able to make the best decisions for you and your family.

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CONTACT US
Ashli Pack

Ashli Pack, Attorney at Law
161 Walt Whitman Avenue
Newport News, VA 23606
757-425-5200

Meet Ashli:

A lifelong Virginian, Ashli comes to us from Crook & Pack, a general litigation firm located in Smithfield, Virginia. Ashli brings to the firm a great deal of experience in Suffolk, Smithfield, Isle of Wight, Newport News, Hampton, and York County. Having grown up in Suffolk and spent the majority of her post-law school life living in Smithfield, she has a familiarity with the courts and the judges in that area that can’t be beat.

Ashli received her undergraduate education at East Carolina University, and attended law school at Widener College of Law in Delaware. At the time, she says she was hoping to eventually practice corporate law, but then realized she absolutely hated it! She returned back home after law school, to the practice where she originally worked as a paralegal, and discovered her love of family law cases—divorce, custody, protective orders, adoptions, and more.

A child of divorce, Ashli understands the unique circumstances involved in family law cases, and brings a compassionate understanding to issues specific to women only in divorce and custody cases.

Ashli married her high school sweetheart (though she insists isn’t that romantic, even though we disagree), Brian, a lifelong Smithfield native. Brian is a co-owner of Smithfield Station, along with his brother, another prominent local business. Together, Ashli and Brian have four kids (two of the two-legged kind and two of the four-legged kind); a daughter named Lucy, a son named Turner, and two Labrador Retrievers, Sam and Abigail.

Aside from her family, Ashli’s great love is the outdoors, where she enjoys boating, paddleboarding, and spending time at the beach. She’s also incredibly athletic (and crazy competitive), and played basketball, volleyball and track in high school, and even continued to play volleyball on into her college years. These days, though, Ashli spends her time managing her active family, and you’re likely to find her shuttling kids from t-ball to soccer and piano lessons. Ashli also loves sushi, the color pink (who doesn’t?), Redskins football, and beating her husband in cornhole tournaments.

 

Lorna Rhoades

Lorna Rhoades, Attorney at Law
1604 Hilltop West Executive Center, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
757-425-5200

Meet Lorna:

Lorna Cobb Rhoades comes from a family of ten children.  The eldest of four biological children, Lorna’s parents went on to adopt six more children – one from Korea, another through Catholic Charities, and four more through the foster care system in Pennsylvania.

Lorna interned with our office back in 2008, before life took her in about a million different directions – from Florida, where she attended law school, in Georgia, and Arizona, before returning to Virginia.  After seeing firsthand what neglectful and abusive situations can come from the foster care system and working with Richard Ducote, one of the country’s leading child abuse and domestic violence litigators, Lorna knew she wanted to focus her practice on family law.  

Today, Lorna is married to Mick, a retired Navy flight officer with whom she shares two young children, Gracie and Callan.

Lorna’s experience touches on a number of issues important to Hampton Roads women – as a Navy wife, she’s intimately acquainted with the specific issues military spouses face and is comfortable navigating the tricky territory associated with military divorce law. In her work in the Pima County Attorney’s office, she worked in the mental health area (specifically authorizing involuntary commitments), which makes her particularly well-informed when it comes to husbands with unique mental health issues. Obviously, too, her personal experience with adoption and her legal experience with divorce and custody cases brings an interesting and valuable perspective.

Lorna is an experienced and confident litigator, having handled a number of fully contested trials, as well as tons of contested custody, visitation, and support hearings.  An ardent advocate for moms in the courtroom, She is also clever, quick, and comfortable in negotiations. Serving her client’s best interests is her first priority, and she does so with zeal, professionalism, and confidence while still maintaining solid relationships with other attorneys and professionals in the field, including therapists, business evaluators, financial advisors, and other experts.

Lorna, Mick, and their children live in Chesapeake, near much of her extended family.  Lorna is a passionate gardener and has built her own cut-flower garden oasis in her backyard, where she grows David Austin roses, peonies, sweet peas, tulips, dahlias, and more.  She makes beautiful floral arrangements – and has even tried her hand at a few wedding bouquets!

Lorna also volunteers with Healthy Journey, a small nonprofit for pregnant women, and works extensively with her daughter’s Girl Scout Troop.  Lorna loves flowers, British history, fancy coffee and tea, traveling, and spending time with her family.

 

 

Lorna’s Reputation:

Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Lorna is helping me through a tough time

I am a mom with two children from two dads. When I spoke to Lorna, she was realistic and patient. I am looking forward to her help in this process.

Tifani B., Virginia Beach, VA

Lorna is very kind

Lorna is making a very difficult time easier to navigate through. She’s kind, doesn’t tell me what I want to hear but what I need to hear, and was reassuring and understanding. I am a separated mom of 2 daughters and currently working on going through a divorce. She was very reassuring and kind.

 

 

Sara C., Virginia Beach, VA

I feel confident after my consult with Mrs. Rhoades

Lorna was very kind and informative. She did not make me feel uncomfortable and made me feel like she was actually addressing my concerns, needs, and my interests. Previously I met with another attorney who made me feel uncomfortable about my situation and as though I was not entitled to anything. However, Mrs. Rhoades did not make me feel uncomfortable and made me feel like she was actually addressing my concerns, needs, and my interests. She was informative and encouraging. I learned a lot during my consultation and feel confident and comfortable moving forward with my divorce.

Ashley S., Chesapeake, VA

Lorna addressed my concerns

I am a mother of two children and one grandchild. She was a great listener and very compassionate. She addressed all of my needs and concerns.

Melissa F., Chesapeake, VA

She gave me many opinions and choose what would work for my life outcome

Lorna gave me good legal advice and opinions to work with. She is very knowledgeable and seemed to understand my situation. I like women lawyers that understand women’s needs.  Everything is going well, she gave me many opinions and choose what would work for my life outcome.

Jeanne B., Virginia Beach, VA

Lorna was very easy to talk to

I was very pleased with my experience, I had a positive experience. She was very easy to talk to and made me feel at ease about my situation.

Jessica H., Virginia Beach, VA

I had a list of concerns and she addressed them all

Lorna Rhoades was very kind and understood my personal needs. She was concerned about my future and brought up things that I was not thinking about. I believe that she has my best interest at heart. All of my questions were answered, Mrs. Rhoades pointed out a lot of things that I was not aware of and was very understanding. It was not complicated to explain my situation and to be understood. I would want everyone to have the best legal representation.

Carrie M., Virginia Beach, VA

I left my appointment with all of my questions answered

Lorna was very kind, compassionate and knowledgeable. She made me feel comfortable in an obviously stressful situation and spoke to me in a professional manner but with understanding and empathy. The staff in the office were friendly and kind as well. I left my appointment with all of my questions answered and feeling as good as possible about what may happen in my situation.

Michelle P., Virginia Beach, VA

A great asset to our case

As soon as I sat down to speak with Lorna Rhoades, she listened so intently and briefly reviewed supporting documentation to my case. Immediately I felt as if she was meant to be our attorney. And, by not retaining her a great asset to our case would be lost.

Lorna is knowledgeable about the law and personable. She really makes you feel like she cares about your voice and your children's best interests. I felt, even though I had been with my attorney for 3 years, that in our current case my voice as a parent was not being accurately represented or recognized.

Your firm does a wonderful job with women. I can't think of anything that would improve what you're already doing.

Monica I., Virginia Beach, VA

Lori Michaud

Lori Michaud, Attorney at Law
1604 Hilltop West Executive Center, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
757-425-5200

Meet Lori:

Lori joined the Hofheimer Family Law after building her solo practice in Virginia Beach.  She has experience with complex custody, support, and equitable distribution matters, as well as domestic violence matters.  She is a seasoned and comfortable litigator, but will always do her best to resolve matters that can be fairly resolved because she knows that settlements allow the parties to craft a resolution that truly works for their family!  Lori is also trained to handle collaborative divorces.

Having weathered her own divorce — which rendered Lori a single mom — and relocating to Virginia to build a new life with her son, Lori understands all too well what a toll custody and divorce litigation can take on a family! She will help you to keep your head up as you walk through your own family law issues!  Being a single mother was a very demanding path, but one that helped her find the strength she didn’t know she had, as well as some great rewards along the way!  

She also brings a level of financial savvy to her practice, having handled complex commercial litigation matters before finding her niche in family law.  “I love helping women go through the process and discover their strengths!  My clients inspire me to keep doing my best — and watching them succeed is very rewarding!”

After graduating from High School at the age of sixteen, Lori earned a BA from Rutgers College, where she was a NJ Bell scholar, and her law degree from Rutgers University School of Law, where she was a Philip J. Levin Scholar.   She interned for the Honorable Maryanne Trump Barry, Judge on the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey, and then clerked for the Honorable Murry D. Brochin, Judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey.  She was associated with the law firms Greenberg Dauber & Epstein in Newark, New Jersey, and with Pitney Hardin Kipp & Szuch, a predecessor to Day, Pitney now located in Parsippany, New Jersey, before opening her own practice following the birth of her son.    

Lori’s son is now “grown and flown”, and she could not be prouder of him!  As an empty nester, Lori is finally finding time to “catch up with herself” and to re-establish hobbies that she has not had time to enjoy for years.  When she is not chained to her desk or killing it in the courtroom, Lori enjoys biking, exploring, and swimming!  She is also an avid reader and loves to cook for family and friends!

Caitlin Walters


Caitlin Walters, Attorney at Law
1604 Hilltop West Executive Center, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
757-425-5200

Meet Caitlin:

After a lengthy struggle with infertility, including IUI and IVF, Caitlin Walters and her husband, Lance, welcomed their son to the family.  Convinced that they were called to bring another child into the world, they started to look into other options to complete their family before finally settling on adoption.  They brought their daughter home in 2022 and finalized their open adoption in March 2023.

Though Caitlin would still welcome more children to the family if the opportunity presented itself, the strong likelihood is that her family – once so earnestly prayed for – is complete.  Caitlin is grateful every day for her children, husband, friends, and faith, and the role that each has played in her long and complicated journey through motherhood so far.

Professionally, too, motherhood is a central focus for Caitlin.  She joined our team in 2013 after training and practicing as a Guardian ad litem, an attorney who represents the children whose parents are involved in contested custody cases and ultimately makes recommendations regarding appropriate placement for the children based on the best interests of the child factors.  

Though she doesn’t currently do Guardian ad litem work, she brings this experience to the table in the custody cases she has handled in the past decade with our firm.  Caitlin particularly enjoys representing Virginia moms in custody cases, especially in cases where breastfeeding, relocation, drug and/or alcohol abuse, and mental illness are factors.  She has been featured in several episodes of the HofLine, the official Hofheimer Family Law Firm podcast, on issues related to custody and visitation.

Caitlin is a knowledgeable but approachable attorney who is as comfortable drafting documents regarding complicated property distribution as litigating custody arrangements in front of a judge. Caitlin is a fierce advocate for her clients and a meticulous and incredibly detail-oriented attorney.  Both her faith and her journey to build her family inform her practice every single day, and her favorite part of the job is helping women navigate this difficult time in their lives and come up with creative solutions that allow them to be the kinds of moms to their children that they always wanted to be. 

“I think it’s important that women find representation by people who know the law but also care about them as individuals and understand that there is a lot more than just the ‘legal’ stuff that goes into a divorce or custody case for our clients,” Caitlin says.

Caitlin is happily married to her high school sweetheart, Lance; a gregarious former DJ turned IT services and staffing account manager, who she met when she was just 16 years old. She and Lance live in Virginia Beach with their two kids and their Weimaraner, Carp. They are also active members in their church, First Baptist Church of Norfolk, where they run an adult life group and lead worship regularly, which they have done together since they were in high school. 

In her spare time, Caitlin enjoys reading and music. She was a member of her church choir from the age of 3 and can also play the trumpet and the piano. Caitlin loves the St. Louis Cardinals, her Kindle, swimming, traveling, being with her family, and being outdoors (except the beach/sand, which she hates).

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B. Caitlin Walters

Rated by Super Lawyers

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Caitlin’s Reputation:

Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Caitlin knows the law

I believe Caitlin knew the law and was able to put most of my concerns to rest. She really addressed things that I was worried about.

Jennifer H., Portsmouth, VA

Caitlin Walters was knowledgeable and honest

I am specifically looking for an attorney with military divorce knowledge and experience. Caitlin listened with understanding. I attended a Saturday session years ago. This helped me understand the one on one process w/moving forward. I am working on collecting the money needed for the retainer and looking forward to working with this team.

Heather G., Virginia Beach, VA

Caitlin made me feel at ease

I am a working mom with two beautiful girls. It was very easy to make an appointment with the firm. Caitlin Walters was very helpful in explaining how things would look depending on the situation and cooperation of my spouse. I have a good feeling about the firm's values.

Felicia H., Suffolk, VA

Caitlin is empathetic

I am a mom of 3 boys going through a divorce. Caitlin is a mom too and understands the baby phase. It was helpful that she listened to me.

Keisha T., Virginia Beach, VA

Caitlin remembered me

I am a previous divorce client with a child from my first marriage. I knew her from years before and she remembered me. Her kindness and support will allow me to go through this more easily.

Mary S., Newport News, VA

Caitlin was very helpful

She was wonderful. She answered lots of my questions. The consult was so helpful that I am going to retain her.

Kelly K., Portsmouth, VA

Caitlin had good attention to detail

Caitlin was very knowledgeable and was very easy to talk to. Very pleasant. I feel confident that she will take good care of my case. I left the consultation feeling like I was taken seriously, and that Caitlin cared about what I was going through.

Kyra D., Virginia Beach, VA

I wish I'd known about this firm when I was getting divorced 9 years ago...

Caitlin was very clear and efficient and understood what I was going for immediately. I loved the speed with which I was able to get her help! She was friendly and efficient and I felt immediately that we were on the same page. I am confident she will move on my issue speedily. I am confident that I am on my way to solving a longstanding issue with a very competent lawyer. I called on Monday and I was able to speak to Caitlin on Tuesday - about 24 hours later! That's amazing!

Michele M., Glen Allen, VA

She listened to my needs

Caitlin was very open and honest on what I need to do to protect myself during this difficult time.

Laura, Carrollton, VA

She is a very smart lady

Caitlin made me feel important and she took her time to explain everything to me when I had questions. She is a very smart lady, very good and detailed. I like the fact that the law firm represents females only.

Angela M., Chesapeake, VA

Caitlin put me at ease

Caitlin Walters was personable, knowledgeable, confident, and put me at ease with the situation. She was wonderful! I highly recommend her and plan on hiring.

Katherine L., Virginia Beach, VA

I feel prepared to go to my court date

Caitlin was extremely helpful! She couldn’t have been more helpful over the phone than if I had been able to be there in person. She even brought it to my attention that I needed to send in my interrogatories by a certain date or I could be penalized. I feel prepared to go to my court date and feel confident in what I need to say to the judge.

Rachel M., Virginia Beach, VA

She made me feel more confident and positive

Caitlin presented at the 2nd Saturday seminar I attended. It was very informative and helped me understand the crucial elements in divorce, what to expect and made me feel more confident & positive with representation from Hofheimer firm. Caitlin covered everything I wanted to know, she was very responsive and answered the questions I had correctly. I so appreciated the information shared.

Trinidad L., Virginia Beach, VA

I received the correct answer to my question and heard valuable facts

I attended the 2nd Saturday seminar and found Caitlin to be very informative. I had been asking questions about divorce, researching online, and I found I would hear many different answers. Coming to the seminar, I received the correct answer to my question and heard valuable facts. Caitlin was clear and she delivered the information in a personable way I related to. She also gave great examples. I may come back!

Bridget P., Virginia Beach, VA

I believe these women could help any woman succeed in her case!

Caitlin outlined many options for me and was extremely helpful. I got a lot of valuable information, including an understanding how a separation agreement works. She was very focused on my needs and rights. She listened attentively and made me feel secure in her advice.  My goal is to move out of state, which will be complicated, but she made these options easy to understand and weigh.

Maria B., Virginia Beach, VA

I felt like she really listened to my questions

There’s nothing I didn’t like about this firm. Caitlin is awesome! They offer so many services and the attorney I met with was great. I felt like she really  listened to my questions and was on my side about how I wanted to handle things going forward.

Kelly G., Virginia Beach, VA

Nice and professional

I’m a going though a separation. I met with Caitlin and she was professional and to the point. I liked the information and felt comfortable enough to hire her.

Stacy T., Virginia Beach, VA

The Husband Lies

I felt comfortable talking with Mrs. Walters and Lorna. If they had not advised me to go to the spousal support hearing I would have missed out on the small amount of support I was awarded. However, I am grateful to be awarded any amount. Mrs. Walters remembered me from the seminar, helped me put some significant points in my agreement and educated me on the next steps to take toward the divorce process. They educated me very well about what to expect. Although, he did sign the agreement I did not because my spouse HAD NOT filed his malpractice case and my attorney advised me not to sign. I was surprise he had not filed because he had been telling me that they were about to settle the case. As your book said the Husband LIES.

Tisha F., Hampton, VA

Comfortable with my plan

Caitlin listened and heard me and what I am hoping to achieve. I felt comfortable with the plan(s) I left with.

Dawn S., Chesapeake, VA

She was very knowledgeable and made me feel very welcomed

Caitlin was very welcoming and attentive to my requests and questions in regards to the divorce.  She helped me understand what was missing and what needs to be done to move forward with my divorce. She made me feel at ease with the current situation.

J. M., Virginia Beach, VA

She put my fears to rest

Caitlin immediately put my fears to rest. She listened answered my questions and gave me confidence that all was going to be right. Her quick manner at appraising the situation, checking and rechecking paperwork and confidence showed she knew what the next steps were to be. I needed quick answers and was able to get an immediate consultation. Felt there was honesty, thoroughness and confidence which I needed.

Julia C., Duck, NC

Law firm gave me hope

I left feeling like Caitlin was thoughtful and genuine in her advice responses. She gave me advice on how to carry on from this point out... with or w/o retaining her services, she helped me at least get my head in the game. There were things that I hadn't considered before, such as, I actually had to file for Custody and Visitation if I wanted to ask for time. This law firm gave me some hope and I felt like they did what they could to help me.

Karen C., Portsmouth, VA

My best interest in mind

Caitlin was an absolute joy to work with, she put me at ease and worked very hard to get all of my needs and wants written down. She was very knowledge and caring.  I felt she had my best interest in mind and was ready to do what ever needs to be done to help me in my situation.

Hope L., Chesapeake, VA

No unanswered questions!

Caitlin was considerate and knowledgeable. She was very understanding and explained everything very well, without making me feel uneducated. I didn't leave the office with any unanswered questions.

Michelle N., Norfolk, VA

Very Helpful!

Caitlin was very informative and covered all aspects of the divorce process.  She was very helpful in answering questions and providing clarity to the group.  I am very grateful this seminar was available to women.  I've tried several attempts to seek legal guidance with unanswered questions and found little to no support from other firms without paying an upfront retainer fee.

Dawn W.

This Is Information I Have Not Received From Prior Lawyers

From Custody Boot Camp: 

How you present yourself in court is important and I was never coached on that.  This also lets me know what to expect of my lawyer.  I liked that Caitlin seemed to take her cases personally and not just as number.

Rosa R.

Nothing But Pure Awesomeness!

From Custody Bootcamp:

Invaluable information!  I've had three court appointed attorneys in the past three years and never knew how much of an injustice was being done to my case and what I am actually entitled to do.

Leigh-Ann M.



Katherine Wilcox Carter


Katherine Wilcox Carter, Attorney at Law
1604 Hilltop West Executive Center, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
757-425-5200

Meet Katherine:

Two abusive relationships ultimately brought Katie to the firm back in 2011.  The first was the marriage of a member of Katie’s extended family.  As a child, Katie – like many annoying and precocious children the world over – dreamed of being an attorney, mostly so that she could preside over the divorce action between the two.  (They’re still unhappily married, and Katie is, fortunately for all, both older and wiser than this today.)

The second was an ex-boyfriend who Katie dated for several years before she met her husband, Jonathan.

Today, Katie splits her time working both as an attorney and as the firm’s Director of Marketing. In the last decade, she has helped to write, revise, and create new versions of each of our four books, written thousands of blog posts, spoken at numerous live events, delivered at least one Second Saturday seminar a month, planned and executed dozens of Girl’s Night Out events, moderated the HofLaw VIP Facebook page and recorded our podcast, the HofLine.

A lifelong resident of Hampton Roads, Katie grew up in Newport News, Virginia, where her family owns Wilcox Bait & Tackle, an outdoor sporting goods store. From there, she attended law school at West Virginia University College of Law.  A chance encounter with Charlie Hofheimer led Katie to Hofheimer Family Law, even though no one else at the firm knew she had been hired when she showed up to work one Monday in August 2011.

Katie and her husband, Jonathan, a tug boat captain, live in Newport News with their two kids, their absolutely perfect Labrador retriever, Sally Eugenie, and directly next door to Katie’s sister, brother-in-law, their three kids, and two crazy puppies.  If it sounds crazy, it is – but it’s also a dream come true, especially for Katie and her sister.  (Fortunately, the husbands are quite tolerant.)

Together, Katie and Jonathan spend a lot of time outdoors fishing, boating, and playing with their kids. Katie also loves hot tea, reading, gardening (with an emphasis on Virginia native plants), traveling (and planning to travel), and being asleep by 9 pm.           

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Katherine Wilcox Carter

Rated by Super Lawyers

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Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Katherine’s Reputation:

Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Knowledgeable and Empathetic

She was knowledgeable and empathetic to my situation. She presented the necessary information clearly for a complex situation.

Lenore M.,
Portsmouth, VA

I received detailed information that I have had difficulty getting elsewhere

Katie exceeded my expectations! She listened, she answered all my questions and provided information that didn’t know I needed. I am know more confident that I will be ok after divorce. She genuinely showed me that she cared about me and my well being. She didn’t withhold information and I am now better prepared to move forward.

R. Williams, Newport News, VA

Knowledgable in Family Law

Katie struck me as knowledgeable in family law. I appreciated her expression of empathy and am certain she will act in my best interest. I like that you only represent women.

Jennifer M., Virginia Beach, VA

One Hundred Percent Geared Towards a Woman and Her Needs

Katie was very warm. She was able to answer the questions that I had in a way that was easy for me to understand. It was almost strange to be associated with a professional entity that was 100% geared towards a woman and her needs. Even the directions to your law firm was extremely female oriented. Good job!

Lisa B., Virginia Beach, VA

Allayed my concerns

Katie listened and was supportive. The consult allayed many of my concerns and affirmed much of what I thought I already knew. She was clear, knowledgeable and advising.

Hollis W., Virginia Beach, VA

Felt at Ease

She made me feel much more at ease about the process, and spent time getting to know me as a person at the same time.

Denise M., Virginia Beach, VA

Thank You For All The Help!

I like the seminar.  The speaker was very clear and friendly.  I would like to come back to the next seminar.  I wish I could have come before.  Thank you for all the help!

Arely C.

Katie Is Terrific!

Katie is terrific!  Wonderful, helpful, knowledgeable, and answered specific questions regarding military and civilian pensions.  Huzzah to the firm and Katie's commitment to helping women!

Sherryl M.

Katie is helpful at Second Saturday Seminars

Katie Carter was open to questions and answered everything on the spot. Lots of resources and great information. I'm going to try the do-it-yourself separation agreement in the next couple months.

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Sheera Herrell
Sheera Herrell


Sheera Herrell, Attorney at Law
1604 Hilltop West Executive Center, Suite 300
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
757-425-5200

Meet Sheera:

Sheera Herrell started practicing with Hofheimer Family Law Firm back in 1999 when she was a brand new graduate of Albany Law School.  In fact, she and Kristen Hofheimer – daughter of firm founder Charlie Hofheimer – sat just a few chairs away from each other as they took the bar exam, though they were strangers at the time.

From the moment she started practicing, Sheera focused on representing women exclusively in divorce and custody cases.  Sheera and Kristen worked together for twenty years, long after Kristen took over as one of the owners of the firm.  After Kristen’s second breast cancer diagnosis, however, Sheera stepped in.

Sheera became the managing partner of the firm in 2017 and owner in January 2019, shortly before Kristen passed away.  

Though Sheera had never intended or even wanted to be the owner of a law firm, she stepped up when it became clear that there was no other way forward.  Since 2019, Sheera has navigated a pandemic and kept together the #BestTeamEver – something for which the team at Hofheimer Family Law Firm will be forever grateful to her for doing.

If there’s one thing to say about Sheera, it’s that she can handle anything, from unexpectedly taking ownership of an entire law firm to delivering a baby in the car on the way to the hospital and even handling some of the most complex and heavily litigated family law cases in Virginia.  Yes, you read that right: she delivered her second baby in the car, by herself, while her husband sped along 1-264, trying desperately to help her reach the hospital in time.  

Sheera’s clients have described her as a good listener, responsive, tough, and effective.  One client even described her as a ‘kung fu’ fighter.  Sheera’s goal is always to understand each client’s unique circumstances and provide efficient and effective representation.  

Sheera has a diverse background, both legally and personally. As a collaboratively trained attorney, Sheera works closely with Collaborative Divorce Solutions of Tidewater. She’s also a skilled litigator, even successfully taking cases on to the appellate court level.

A Certified Financial Planner™, Sheera is exceptionally skilled at handling cases with complicated equitable distribution issues. She applies her considerable skills to obtain the best financial settlements for her clients.

Sheera is a member of the Virginia State Bar, Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, Virginia Beach Bar Association, Collaborative Divorce Solutions of Tidewater, International Association of Collaborative Professionals, and Virginia Collaborative Professionals. Sheera was selected for inclusion in Virginia Super Lawyers Rising Stars Edition 2008-2014, a Super Lawyer in 2015-2023, and is committed to providing all of her clients the personal attention they deserve.

Sheera and her husband live in Virginia Beach with their two children. Sheera is also a violist and a former member of Symphonicity, the Symphony Orchestra of Virginia Beach. She spends a lot of time watching her children play, and spends a lot of time traveling with her family to attend Champions League games (Tottenham, Chelsea, and Paris Saint Germain) and USWNT.  Sheera is also learning Portuguese in her spare time, loves Peloton, collects recipes on Pinterest, volunteers with Tidewater Friends of Foster Care, and listens to true crime podcasts.

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Sheera R. Herrell

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Lawyer Sheera Herrell | Top Attorney Divorce

Sheera’s Reputation:

Though we can’t guarantee results, and every case is different, we’ve had some pretty happy clients over the years!

Sheera gave me information I never could've found

Sheera Herrell anticipated my questions almost before I could ask them. She provided thorough explanations of the process and my various options. The ease with which she presented the information and the fact that she made me feel completely comfortable. If or when I decide to proceed, I will definitely hire her. I just haven't decided yet. There's a lot to consider. I could never have found all this information on my own. She explained things rather than just presenting the facts. Although I have never sought a family law attorney, I believe I'm an excellent judge of character. To me, that is more important than some success rate.

Anna K., Virginia Beach, VA

Ms. Herrell was knowledgeable

Ms. Herrell was very kind, she listened to what I had to say, and was responsive. Her kindness and knowledge were great and I think she will fight for my interests. I liked being able to have a video conference rather than coming in person to the law office - it was much more convenient.

Katherine O., Chesapeake, VA

Sheera took time with me

I feel like she took the time to understand the issues. I have a blended family and co-parenting issues and I am positive that she can help me.

H. Miller, Virginia Beach, VA

Sheera helped answer all my questions

She helped me with a place to start as this was all new to me and never been through anything like this before. She listened to my concerns and helped me feel a little less stressed by the end of the meeting. I felt comfortable with her and I feel that she truly connected with my concerns for my children. This was all a very scary step as I was never expecting to go through this at my age. She listened to my concerns and I felt relieved just after my first consult.

Erinn D., Virginia Beach, VA

Sheera put my mind at ease

I learned some new things. She was logical and down to earth. I really felt like she listened. I am ready to get this done as quickly as possible. I was terrified and she put my mind at ease.

E. Scott, Virginia Beach, VA

I was comfortable talking to Sheera

She was very professional. As a woman, I felt very comfortable telling her my concerns. I feel she is capable of handling all of them. I'm hiring Hofheimer Family Law to represent me.

Jacqueline A., Hampton, VA

Sheera is fighting hard for me

She understood my situation and the stress imposed by the whole process. She understood the errors in my divorce process as the duration of the process has gone on for so long.

Diane T., Chesapeake, VA

She responds to my requests

Thank you for all your help over the past year and a half. You have always been so prompt to respond to my requests and so understanding. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you.

Karen M.,
Virginia Beach, VA

Sharp as a tack

Sheera understood the facts and developed a plan that I am completely happy with. I have and will continue to recommended her whenever someone needs a divorce lawyer.

Tracy O., Virginia Beach, VA

Sheera has represented me in the past

Sheera has represented me, very successfully, in the past. She is compassionate and warm in person, yet tough and effective in the courtroom. I believe in getting out ahead of potential problems, which was the purpose of this consultation. I highly recommend her!

Deborah B., Chesapeake, VA

Sheera was very informative and competent

She knew what she was talking about and showed me mistakes other legal professionals missed in my court filings. I was impressed with her knowledge and she laid out all of my options for me in a clear and concise way, which is exactly what I needed.

Bonnie H., Virginia Beach, VA

My biggest regret is that I did not find Sheera sooner

My ex-husband, also an Attorney, can manufacture more loopholes and psychological backflips than any other 100 people I know - and Sheera handled him VERY well. The fact my divorce was granted on Halloween day could not have been more poetic. My biggest regret is that I did not find her sooner and my biggest relief is that she helped rescue me from a marital nightmare. I give her my highest respect and recommendation - and so do my parents and friends.

Nicole V.
Program Support Specialist at US Navy

Knowledgeable

Sheera was very personable, empathetic, sympathetic, and knowledgeable.

Vicky B.

The Seminar Was Really Helpful

The seminar was really helpful. I gained a lot of knowledge on separation and custody. I really appreciate all of your help. Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to inform women on their rights in divorce and separation.

Lavonda A. Virginia Beach, VA

With the help of Charles Hofheimer and Sheera Herrell, a client was able to finally feel "represented and protected" after past "fruitless" efforts.

My daughter and I have spent much time trying to obtain financial assistance for her and her twins. It was fruitless until we were recommended to your firm. Our initial consultation with you sparked hope. You seemed to be a man capable of getting a job done. You turned our case over to Sheera Herrell who reflected your reputation and firm in a most commendable way. She was accessible, knowledgeable of our case and quick to act. We felt represented and protected in a most fundamental way. Our family sends your firm a boquet of gratefulness.

Carolyn, Rock Hill, South Carolina