How Long to Be Separated Before Divorce in Virginia

Introduction: Understanding Virginia’s Separation Mandate

In Virginia, the path to a no-fault divorce is uniquely tied to a mandatory period of living “separate and apart.” This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a foundational legal requirement that profoundly impacts when and how your marriage can be legally dissolved. For over two decades, I’ve guided individuals through the intricate nuances of Virginia divorce law, observing firsthand the critical importance of understanding this separation period. It’s not merely about physical distance; it’s about the demonstrated intent to end the marital relationship, a distinction the courts scrutinize meticulously. This article will delve into the specifics of Virginia’s separation laws, ensuring you comprehend the requirements, the process, and how to navigate this crucial phase effectively.

Virginia stands out among many states by requiring this period of physical and emotional separation as a prerequisite for a no-fault divorce. This means that even if both parties agree to divorce, they must first satisfy the statutory separation period. This period is designed to ensure the marriage is truly irretrievably broken before the court steps in to finalize the divorce. My experience has shown that misinterpreting or mishandling this phase can lead to significant delays and complications in the divorce proceedings. Therefore, a clear understanding of what “separate and apart” entails in the eyes of Virginia law is paramount for anyone considering divorce in the Commonwealth.

The Stakes: Why Virginia’s Separation Period Matters

The mandatory separation period in Virginia is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle; it carries significant legal and personal ramifications, impacting everything from your timeline to the division of assets and even child custody arrangements. Failing to properly establish or document this separation can lead to your divorce filing being rejected or significantly delayed. As a seasoned attorney, I’ve seen how misunderstandings regarding the duration and definition of “separate and apart” can derail an otherwise straightforward divorce process. Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9) specifically outlines the requirements for a no-fault divorce, demanding that parties live separate and apart without cohabitation and without interruption for a specified period.

For couples with minor children, or without a written marital settlement agreement, this period is one year. If there are no minor children born of the marriage and the parties have entered into a written agreement providing for the disposition of their property, the required period is six months. This distinction is critical and must be precisely met. Any misstep, such as a brief period of reconciliation or a failure to clearly establish separate residences and intent, can reset the clock on your separation period, prolonging the emotional and financial strain of the divorce process. The courts, specifically the Virginia Circuit Courts, will scrutinize whether the separation was indeed continuous and accompanied by the necessary intent to dissolve the marriage. Ignoring these legal mandates can result in prolonged legal battles, increased legal fees, and unnecessary emotional turmoil, underscoring the vital need for meticulous adherence to Virginia separation laws.

Navigating the Virginia Legal Process of Separation and Divorce

The journey through a divorce in Virginia, particularly one based on the no-fault ground of separation, follows a specific legal pathway that requires careful attention to detail and understanding of court procedures. The legal process begins with establishing the required period of living separate and apart, often followed by filing a complaint for divorce in the appropriate Virginia Circuit Court. Over the years, I’ve guided countless clients through each step, from the initial establishment of separation to the final decree. This process is not merely about ticking off dates on a calendar; it involves proving to the court that the statutory requirements for separation have been met, often requiring documentation and clear statements of intent.

Once the separation period is satisfied, one party can file a “Complaint for Divorce” with the Circuit Court in the city or county where one of the parties resides. This document formally initiates the divorce proceedings. The complaint must state the grounds for divorce (in this case, living separate and apart for the statutory period) and outline any requests regarding property division, spousal support, or child custody. The opposing party must then be served with the complaint, providing them an opportunity to respond. The involvement of various entities, particularly the Virginia Circuit Courts, is central to this process. These courts oversee all aspects, from ensuring proper service of legal documents to adjudicating disputes and approving final divorce decrees. While the Virginia Supreme Court and Court of Appeals exist for higher-level appeals, the initial and most critical phase of the divorce process unfolds within the Circuit Courts. A deep understanding of these procedural requirements, and how to effectively present your case within these court systems, is fundamental to achieving a timely and favorable outcome.

Establishing the Date of Separation

A crucial first step in any Virginia divorce predicated on separation is clearly establishing the “date of separation.” This isn’t always as straightforward as it sounds. While it often coincides with one spouse moving out of the marital home, it can also be the date when spouses begin living in separate areas of the same house with the explicit intent to end the marriage. The key elements are physical separation and the intent to permanently end the marital relationship. Evidence of this intent can include telling others you are separated, ceasing marital activities, separating finances, and establishing separate households, even if under the same roof.

The Role of a Separation Agreement

While not legally required to initiate the separation period, a carefully drafted “separation agreement” (also known as a Marital Settlement Agreement or Property Settlement Agreement) is an invaluable tool. This agreement can address critical issues such as division of property and debts, spousal support, child custody, and child support during the separation period and potentially beyond. Virginia Code § 20-107.3 governs the equitable distribution of marital property, and having these terms outlined in an agreement provides clarity and can expedite the final divorce process. Such an agreement can be presented to the Virginia Circuit Court for incorporation into the final divorce decree, streamlining the proceedings significantly.

Filing the Complaint for Divorce

After the statutory separation period (six months or one year) has been continuously met, a Complaint for Divorce can be filed with the clerk of the Virginia Circuit Court in the appropriate jurisdiction. This complaint details the grounds for divorce, which, in a no-fault divorce, will be the period of separation. It also includes requests for relief concerning property, support, and children. Proper filing and service of this complaint are critical procedural steps that must be strictly followed according to the Rules of Court governing the Virginia Circuit Courts.

Discovery and Negotiation

Following the filing and response, the “discovery” phase often begins, where parties exchange financial documents and other relevant information. This phase is crucial for ensuring full disclosure of assets and debts as outlined by Virginia Code § 20-107.3, which governs equitable distribution. Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation and mediation during this period, leading to a comprehensive settlement agreement that can be submitted to the court. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to a contested hearing before a judge in the Virginia Circuit Court.

Final Decree of Divorce

Once all issues are resolved, either by agreement or by judicial decision after a contested hearing, the Circuit Court will issue a “Final Decree of Divorce.” This decree legally dissolves the marriage and incorporates all terms regarding property, support, and child-related matters. The role of the Virginia Circuit Courts is paramount in ensuring that all terms are fair, equitable, and in the best interests of any minor children, as outlined by Virginia Code § 20-124.2 concerning child custody and visitation.

The SRIS Virginia Separation Readiness Checklist Tool

Navigating the separation period requires diligence and organization. To assist you in preparing for a Virginia no-fault divorce, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has developed the “SRIS Virginia Separation Readiness Checklist.” This tool provides a structured approach to ensure you meet the legal requirements and adequately prepare for the next steps in your divorce journey.

SRIS Virginia Separation Readiness Checklist

Use this checklist to track your separation period and address key considerations:

1. Establish Clear Date of Separation:
   • Action: Identify the exact date you and your spouse began living separate and apart with the intent to end the marriage.
   • Verification: Document this date. Consider notifying your spouse in writing, if appropriate and safe.
   • Note: Physical separation is key, even if in the same residence, as long as separate households are maintained and there is intent to end the marital relationship.
2. Confirm No Cohabitation:
   • Action: Ensure you and your spouse do not share a bedroom or engage in sexual relations.
   • Verification: Maintain separate living spaces, if possible, and avoid any appearance of reconciliation.
   • Note: Any resumption of marital cohabitation, even brief, can restart the separation clock.
3. Separate Finances (Initial Steps):
   • Action: Begin discussing or implementing separate banking, credit cards, and household budgets.
   • Verification: Monitor shared accounts and gather financial statements for all assets and debts.
   • Note: This is a complex area; consider seeking legal counsel on equitable distribution under Virginia Code § 20-107.3.
4. Address Child-Related Matters (If Applicable):
   • Action: Discuss temporary custody, visitation, and support arrangements for minor children.
   • Verification: Ensure the well-being and stability of the children are prioritized.
   • Note: Child custody decisions are always based on the “best interests of the child” as per Virginia Code § 20-124.2.
5. Gather Important Documents:
   • Action: Compile financial records (bank statements, tax returns, pay stubs), property deeds, loan documents, and insurance policies.
   • Verification: Secure copies of all essential documents in a safe place.
   • Note: Comprehensive documentation is vital for property division and spousal support calculations.
6. Seek Legal Guidance:
   • Action: Arrange a confidential case review with an attorney knowledgeable in Virginia divorce law.
   • Verification: Discuss your specific situation, rights, and obligations during separation and divorce.
   • Note: An attorney can help draft a robust separation agreement and guide you through the Virginia Circuit Court process.
7. Draft a Separation Agreement (Recommended):
   • Action: Work with your attorney to draft a comprehensive marital settlement agreement addressing all divorce-related issues.
   • Verification: Ensure the agreement covers property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support.
   • Note: A well-drafted agreement can significantly streamline the uncontested divorce process.
8. Maintain Clear Communication (Where Possible):
   • Action: Strive for respectful and clear communication with your spouse, especially regarding children or shared responsibilities.
   • Verification: Document important agreements or discussions if not formalized in an agreement.
   • Note: While emotional, maintaining civility can ease the entire process.
9. Emotional and Practical Preparation:
   • Action: Plan for your living arrangements, budget, and emotional support systems post-separation.
   • Verification: Seek counseling or support groups if needed to manage the emotional toll.
   • Note: Divorce is a significant life change; prepare holistically.
10. Track Separation Period:
    • Action: Accurately log the duration of your separate and apart living arrangement.
    • Verification: Confirm that the six-month (no children, agreement) or one-year (children or no agreement) period is fully met.
    • Note: This tracking is critical for the formal filing of your divorce complaint in the Virginia Circuit Court.

Strategic Approaches During Your Virginia Separation

Navigating the separation period requires more than just marking time; it demands strategic planning to safeguard your interests and streamline the eventual divorce. Approaching this phase proactively can significantly impact the outcome of property division, spousal support, and child custody matters in your Virginia divorce. Having practiced family law for over two decades, I’ve observed that the most successful outcomes often stem from clients who strategically utilize the separation period to their advantage. This involves making informed decisions about finances, living arrangements, and communication, all while keeping the ultimate goal of a fair and efficient divorce in mind.

Considering a Marital Settlement Agreement

One of the most potent strategies during the separation phase is to negotiate and execute a comprehensive Marital Settlement Agreement (also known as a Property Settlement Agreement or Separation Agreement). This document can resolve all issues related to the divorce—property division, debts, spousal support, child custody, and child support—before you even file the divorce complaint. Having a signed agreement can allow you to proceed with an uncontested divorce once the separation period is met, significantly reducing legal costs and emotional stress. The Virginia Circuit Courts typically incorporate such agreements into the final divorce decree, provided they are fair and reasonable.

Financial Prudence and Documentation

During separation, it’s crucial to exercise financial prudence. Begin to separate your finances where possible, but do so carefully and transparently, especially concerning marital assets. Meticulously document all financial transactions, income, and expenses. This documentation will be invaluable when addressing equitable distribution of marital property, as governed by Virginia Code § 20-107.3. Understand your assets and debts fully, and consider opening individual bank accounts and credit cards while maintaining transparency regarding shared marital accounts. This financial clarity can be a powerful asset during negotiations or litigation.

Managing Child Custody and Visitation Temporarily

If you have minor children, establishing a clear, temporary custody and visitation schedule during the separation period is vital. While these initial arrangements are not permanent, they can set a precedent and demonstrate stability for the children. Documenting these arrangements, even informally at first, can be helpful. Ultimately, decisions regarding child custody and visitation are always made in the “best interests of the child,” as articulated in Virginia Code § 20-124.2. Demonstrating a willingness to co-parent effectively during separation can positively influence future custody determinations by the Virginia Circuit Courts.

Maintaining a Clear Record of Separation

To ensure your separation period is recognized by the Virginia Circuit Courts, it’s imperative to maintain clear evidence that you have lived separate and apart with the intent to end the marriage. This means avoiding any appearance of cohabitation or reconciliation. Keep separate residences (or separate areas of the same residence), manage separate finances, and inform friends and family of your separated status. Documenting these actions can be crucial if the continuity of your separation period is ever questioned during your divorce proceedings.

Seeking Timely Legal Counsel

Perhaps the most overarching strategy is to engage with a knowledgeable legal counsel at the outset. An experienced attorney can provide guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, help you understand the nuances of Virginia separation laws, draft a robust separation agreement, and represent your interests throughout the entire process. This proactive approach can help you avoid pitfalls, protect your rights, and move efficiently toward a resolution, whether through negotiation or litigation in the Virginia Circuit Courts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Separation in Virginia

While the concept of “living separate and apart” seems simple, many individuals inadvertently make mistakes during their separation period that can complicate or delay their Virginia divorce. Avoiding these common pitfalls is crucial for a smooth and efficient legal process. Drawing from extensive experience, I’ve seen clients face unnecessary setbacks due to oversights during this critical pre-divorce phase. Understanding these common errors and taking proactive steps to avoid them can save you significant time, money, and emotional distress.

1. Misinterpreting “Separate and Apart”:

   Mistake: Believing that merely sleeping in separate rooms under the same roof automatically constitutes legal separation, without a clear intent to end the marital relationship or maintain completely separate lives.

   Correction: Virginia law requires both physical separation and the intent to end the marriage permanently. This means ceasing all marital duties and activities, maintaining separate households (even if within the same dwelling), and demonstrating this intent to others. A brief return to cohabitation, even for a single night of intimacy, can reset the entire separation clock under Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9).

2. Failing to Document the Separation Date:

   Mistake: Not clearly establishing and documenting the precise date you began living separate and apart.

   Correction: While not legally required to file formal paperwork to begin separation, having a clear start date is vital. This can be supported by records of a new lease, utility bills at a new address, or a written agreement acknowledging the separation date. This documentation helps prove the statutory period to the Virginia Circuit Court.

3. Ignoring Financial Implications:

   Mistake: Neglecting to address financial issues during separation, such as shared bank accounts, debts, and household expenses.

   Correction: Even during separation, marital assets and debts can continue to accrue. Begin the process of understanding and separating finances responsibly. Consult with an attorney regarding the equitable distribution principles of Virginia Code § 20-107.3 to avoid inadvertently damaging your financial standing or assuming additional liabilities.

4. Engaging in Reckless Behavior:

   Mistake: Believing that because you are separated, your actions (e.g., new romantic relationships, excessive spending) have no bearing on your divorce case.

   Correction: While Virginia is a no-fault state for divorce based on separation, marital misconduct (like adultery) can still impact spousal support awards and occasionally property distribution, though rarely custody. Maintaining responsible behavior throughout the separation is always advisable, as your actions can be scrutinized by the Virginia Circuit Courts.

5. Communicating Directly Without Legal Guidance:

   Mistake: Attempting to negotiate complex divorce terms directly with your spouse without the benefit of legal counsel.

   Correction: While amiable communication is positive, legal issues like property division, spousal support, and child custody are complex. An attorney can ensure your rights are protected and that any agreements made are legally sound and enforceable. This is especially true when drafting a comprehensive marital settlement agreement.

6. Failing to Protect Children’s Best Interests:

   Mistake: Allowing disputes or emotional distress to negatively impact children during the separation period.

   Correction: Virginia courts prioritize the “best interests of the child” in all custody and visitation matters (Virginia Code § 20-124.2). Establish a consistent routine for children, minimize conflict in their presence, and ensure both parents remain involved. Presenting a stable co-parenting front, even amidst separation, is crucial.

7. Delaying Legal Consultation:

   Mistake: Waiting until the last minute to seek legal advice, potentially missing opportunities or making irreversible errors.

   Correction: Engage with an attorney knowledgeable in Virginia divorce law early in the separation process. This allows you to plan strategically, understand your rights and obligations, and avoid common pitfalls from the outset, ensuring a smoother transition through the Virginia Circuit Courts.

Glossary of Key Virginia Divorce Terms

Understanding the legal terminology associated with Virginia separation and divorce is crucial for navigating the process effectively. Here are some key terms:

No-Fault Divorce

A divorce granted without either party needing to prove marital misconduct (e.g., adultery, cruelty). In Virginia, a common ground for no-fault divorce is living separate and apart for a statutory period (Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9)).

Separate and Apart

The legal requirement in Virginia for a no-fault divorce, meaning parties have lived in separate residences (or maintained separate households within the same residence) with the intent to permanently end the marital relationship, without cohabitation, for the statutory period (six months or one year).

Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA)

Also known as a Property Settlement Agreement or Separation Agreement, this is a written contract between divorcing spouses outlining the terms of their divorce, including property division, debt allocation, spousal support, child custody, and child support. It can be incorporated into the final divorce decree by the Virginia Circuit Court.

Equitable Distribution

The legal principle in Virginia (Virginia Code § 20-107.3) for dividing marital property and debt fairly, though not necessarily equally, between spouses during a divorce. This contrasts with community property states, where assets are typically divided 50/50.

Spousal Support

Financial payments made by one spouse to the other after a separation or divorce, intended to provide economic assistance. In Virginia, spousal support can be rehabilitative (temporary) or permanent, and factors for its determination are outlined in Virginia Code § 20-107.1.

Custody

Refers to the legal and physical arrangements for raising minor children after a divorce or separation. In Virginia, both legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the child lives) can be sole or joint. Virginia Code § 20-124.2 guides custody decisions, prioritizing the child’s best interests.

Circuit Court

The trial court in Virginia with jurisdiction over divorce cases, including issuing divorce decrees, deciding property division, and making child custody determinations.

Common Scenarios & Questions About Virginia Separation

Throughout my career, I’ve encountered numerous situations that highlight the complexities of Virginia’s separation requirements. These scenarios often lead to common questions that warrant clear answers. Here are a few:

Scenario 1: Living Separate Under One Roof

Question: “My spouse and I have been sleeping in separate bedrooms for over a year, stopped sharing meals, and don’t act as a couple, but we still live in the same house for financial reasons. Does this count as living ‘separate and apart’ for a Virginia divorce?”

Answer: Yes, it can, but it requires diligent proof. Virginia law acknowledges that spouses can live “separate and apart” under the same roof if they maintain separate households and demonstrate the clear intent to end the marital relationship. This means no shared meals, no intimate contact, separate finances, and often separate living spaces within the home. Documentation of this intent (e.g., telling friends/family, separate mail, separate bills, individual social lives) is crucial to satisfy the Virginia Circuit Courts that the separation is genuine and continuous under Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9).

Scenario 2: Brief Reconciliation During Separation

Question: “My spouse and I separated six months ago, and we have no children. We thought about reconciling and spent a weekend together, but it didn’t work out. Does that weekend reset my six-month separation period for divorce?”

Answer: Unfortunately, yes, it likely does. Virginia law is stringent that the period of living separate and apart must be “without cohabitation and without interruption.” Even a brief attempt at reconciliation that involves resuming marital relations or cohabiting can reset the clock on the required six-month or one-year period for a no-fault divorce. It’s a common pitfall that can significantly delay your divorce, underscoring the importance of strict adherence to the statute and clear intent.

Scenario 3: One Spouse Leaves the State

Question: “My spouse moved out of Virginia completely and now lives in another state. I want to file for divorce in Virginia based on our separation. Can I still do that?”

Answer: As long as you, the filing party, meet Virginia’s residency requirements, you can generally file for divorce in Virginia. For a no-fault divorce, you would still need to prove that you and your spouse have lived separate and apart for the statutory period (six months or one year). The fact that your spouse moved out of state helps establish the physical separation. You would file in the Virginia Circuit Court in your local jurisdiction, and your spouse would be served with the divorce papers out-of-state. Navigating out-of-state service and potential jurisdictional issues for property or support can add complexity, making legal counsel essential.

Scenario 4: Impact of a Separation Agreement

Question: “We signed a separation agreement three months into our one-year separation. Does having this agreement mean we can get divorced sooner, or do we still need to wait the full year?”

Answer: While a marital settlement agreement is highly beneficial and can pave the way for an uncontested divorce, it does not shorten the mandatory separation period itself. If you have minor children or haven’t met the criteria for the six-month period, you still must wait the full one year of living separate and apart as required by Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9). The agreement simply ensures that once the period is met, your divorce can proceed more smoothly and efficiently through the Virginia Circuit Court, as most substantive issues will already be resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia Separation and Divorce

1. What are the specific separation periods required for a no-fault divorce in Virginia?
Answer: In Virginia, the required separation period for a no-fault divorce is either six months or one year. It is six months if you have no minor children and have a written marital settlement agreement. It is one year if you have minor children or do not have a written agreement, as per Virginia Code § 20-91(A)(9).

2. What does “living separate and apart” truly mean in Virginia?
Answer: It means more than just physical distance; it requires both parties to live in separate residences (or maintain entirely separate households within the same residence) without cohabitation and with the clear intent to permanently end the marital relationship. This includes ceasing marital duties and intimate relations.

3. Do I need a formal “legal separation” document in Virginia?
Answer: Virginia does not have a formal “legal separation” status that requires court filing like some other states. The “separation” is a factual state of living separate and apart. However, a “Marital Settlement Agreement” is a highly recommended written contract that formalizes terms during the separation and can be incorporated into your divorce decree.

4. What if we try to reconcile during the separation period?
Answer: Any period of cohabitation, including attempts at reconciliation where you resume marital relations or live together as a couple, will generally “reset” the clock on your separation period. The separation must be “without interruption” to count towards the statutory requirement.

5. Can we separate while living in the same house in Virginia?
Answer: Yes, it is possible, but it is challenging to prove. You must demonstrate that you maintain entirely separate households, do not share a bedroom, do not engage in marital relations, and have a clear intent to end the marriage. Evidence such as separate finances, social lives, and communication to others about your separated status is often required by the Virginia Circuit Courts.

6. What issues can a Marital Settlement Agreement address during separation?
Answer: A Marital Settlement Agreement can comprehensively address property division (marital assets and debts), spousal support (alimony), child custody, visitation schedules, and child support. It provides clarity and can avoid future disputes, streamlining the divorce process.

7. When can I file for divorce in Virginia?
Answer: You can file your Complaint for Divorce in the Virginia Circuit Court only after you have met the full statutory period of living separate and apart (six months or one year), and you meet the residency requirements for filing in Virginia.

8. Does the separation period affect property division?
Answer: While the separation period itself doesn’t directly dictate property division, the date of separation is often a crucial factor in determining which assets and debts are considered “marital” and subject to equitable distribution under Virginia Code § 20-107.3. Assets acquired after a clear separation date are often considered separate property.

9. How do child custody and support work during the separation?
Answer: During separation, parents should establish temporary arrangements for child custody, visitation, and support. These informal agreements can become legally binding through a Marital Settlement Agreement or a temporary court order from the Virginia Circuit Court. Child support is calculated based on guidelines, and custody decisions always prioritize the child’s best interests as per Virginia Code § 20-124.2.

10. What if my spouse refuses to acknowledge the separation?
Answer: Your spouse’s refusal to acknowledge the separation does not negate it if you meet the statutory requirements of living separate and apart with the intent to end the marriage. However, it may indicate a contested divorce, requiring you to present stronger evidence to the Virginia Circuit Court regarding the duration and intent of your separation.

11. Can I move out of the marital home during separation?
Answer: Yes, moving out of the marital home is often the clearest way to establish the physical separation required. However, consider the practical implications regarding finances, property, and children before moving. It’s advisable to consult an attorney before making such a significant move.

12. What evidence do I need to prove separation to the court?
Answer: Evidence can include separate residences (leases, utility bills), separate financial accounts, testimony from friends or family confirming your separate status, and the absence of marital activities. If living under the same roof, more detailed proof of separate households and intent is needed.

13. Can I date during the separation period in Virginia?
Answer: While Virginia is a no-fault divorce state based on separation, engaging in new romantic relationships (especially if it constitutes adultery) during the separation period can still impact spousal support awards and, in rare circumstances, even property division, though it generally does not prevent the divorce itself. It’s wise to proceed cautiously and discuss this with your attorney.

14. How long does the entire divorce process take after separation?
Answer: After the separation period is met, an uncontested divorce in Virginia where a full Marital Settlement Agreement is in place can often be finalized in a matter of weeks to a few months. Contested divorces, involving court hearings and negotiations over unresolved issues, can take significantly longer, from several months to over a year.

15. Is it possible to waive the separation period?
Answer: No, Virginia law does not allow for the waiver of the mandatory separation period for a no-fault divorce. The statutory period (six months or one year) must be met before a no-fault divorce can be granted by the Virginia Circuit Court.

Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today

Navigating the complexities of divorce and separation in Virginia requires seasoned legal guidance. The consequences of missteps can be profound and long-lasting. If you are considering separation or divorce, or if you need assistance understanding Virginia’s specific requirements for dissolving your marriage, do not hesitate to reach out. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is prepared to offer you a confidential case review and provide the knowledgeable representation you need to protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome. Call us today at 888-437-7747 to discuss your situation.