Dividing Inheritance in Divorce You probably already know (or at least suspect) that things that you earned or purchased during the marriage are marital property, and will be divided in the divorce. For most people, that means we’re talking about dividing the big ticket items – real property (houses and land), retirement and investment accounts, bank accounts, and bigger items of personal property, like cars, boats, and airplanes. How is an inheritance divided in divorce? If you’ve received … [Read more...]
Divorce Disabled Wife
Divorce is scary at the best of times, but if you’re suffering from a disability, it can be even worse. Everyone is worried about how, after divorce, they’ll be able to afford a lifestyle that is even remotely similar to the one they’ve been enjoying. When we’re talking less about paying for a house and more about extensive medical expenses, it’s even scarier. When you’re a disabled wife, your financial concerns are even bigger than most wives, because you’re worried about your ability to … [Read more...]
His, Hers, Ours: Classifying Property in Divorce
When you’re happily married, everything is “ours”. But as soon as one of you starts talking about a potential separation, it’s funny how many things suddenly become “mine” – especially from a man’s perspective. I’ve only ever represented women only in divorce and custody cases, so I can speak most easily and comfortably about a woman’s mindset. For the most part, women aren’t the ones saying, “That’s mine.” Women, in general, are much more giving and understanding of the fact that what was … [Read more...]
Alcoholism in Divorce and Custody Cases
Alcoholism is a widespread issue in the United States, and it’s no small wonder that we see it pretty often in divorce and custody cases. Whether it’s your alleged alcoholism, or whether you’re worrying about your husband’s consumption of alcoholic beverages (and, of course, whether it’s a divorce or a custody case we’re talking about), there are some things you should know as you prepare to face a family law case in the Virginia courts. Alcoholism in Divorce Cases The first thing you should … [Read more...]
How is debt divided in Virginia divorce?
Everything gets divided in divorce---including the debt. If you really think about it, it’s not all that surprising. If you get half the dishes and he takes half the dish towels, certainly at some point you’re going to start talking about that Sears card. Or the line of credit that helped you renovate your kitchen. Or the loans on the cars—that you refinanced to help pay for the downstairs guest bathroom remodel. The average American carries a staggering amount of debt. From student loans to … [Read more...]
What are my Virginia divorce rights?
Probably the question we get the most often, both in our initial consultations and at our Second Saturday seminars is this one: What exactly are my rights? It’s a vague question, and it isn’t one that has a simple answer, but I’m going to do my best to provide you as good of an answer as I can. I think the question most women are really getting at is “what am I entitled to receive?” or “what will I get in my divorce?” which is a little bit different. Still, I’m going to try to answer all … [Read more...]
