Getting divorced is stressful and can be extremely emotional for everyone involved. Because the divorce agreement that the court ultimately approves can have a major impact on your life, you want to make sure you get the best terms possible. If you or your soon-to-be-ex-spouse moved out of state, the legal process can be even more complicated.
When People Move On (and Out of State)
It’s not uncommon for someone to move out of an area when a separation or divorce happens. If you moved out of state and your spouse filed a motion for a divorce, hiring a local Virginia Beach attorney who knows the ins and outs of Virginia law is paramount.
You need to find one who is well-versed in the nuances of the local jurisdiction, is familiar with strategies used by opposing attorneys who work in the area, and has strong relationships in the local court systems–all of which can go a long way to ensuring a favorable outcome.
What a Local Attorney Brings to the Table
Divorce is often emotionally and legally complex. Having the right legal representation can significantly affect how smoothly it all goes.
Virginia is a no-fault divorce state. This means that neither party must prove that their partner was at fault or that misconduct was involved. However, just because Virginia is a no-fault state doesn’t mean you don’t need an attorney.
Even in no-fault cases, a local attorney can better guide you expertly through the divorce process. When you understand what a divorce lawyer does, you’ll appreciate how a local attorney will have:
- A deep understanding of Virginia law: Laws governing divorce vary from state to state. A local attorney will have an in-depth knowledge of Virginia’s law and will handle your case according to the legal requirements of the Commonwealth of Virginia, reducing the risk of costly errors.
- Familiarity with local judicial processes: Divorce involves a substantial amount of paperwork. A Virginia attorney can help you navigate this complex process, ensuring everything is done in the proper order, and that filings are complete, correct, and done on time, reducing the chances of costly complications or delays. Local attorneys may also have access to local experts or professionals who can provide valuable testimony or assistance if needed.
- Better availability: An attorney who is located nearby should be more available to advocate for you at meetings, court appearances, and other in-person interactions.
- Established relationships: In some cases, the terms of a divorce agreement can be reached with the help of a mediator. A local attorney may be able to suggest someone in the area who can help expedite the process.
- Knowledge of matters involving children: Child custody and child support are often the most emotionally charged aspects of divorce. A local attorney can help you navigate Virginia’s child custody laws and protect the interests of your children.
- Experience with property division and alimony: In Virginia, property is divided according to the principles of equitable distribution. This does not mean that property is divided equally. A local attorney can help ensure assets and debts are divided fairly and that the amount to be paid in spousal support is adequate.
If a spouse doesn’t hold up their end of the deal in terms of child support, alimony, etc., a local attorney can also quickly file the appropriate paperwork to force them to perform.
Wrapping Up
Without legal representation, you may inadvertently make decisions or agreements that are not in your best interest. A local attorney, such as one from The Coastal Virginia Law Firm, can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure that you are fully aware of the implications of your choices.
Our expertise in Virginia’s divorce laws, experience in handling complex legal issues, and ability to navigate a complex process can increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome. All of this also holds true if you’re wondering whether it is worth getting an attorney for a car accident!
