Virginia Divorce Lawyer Blog | Hofheimer/Ferrebee, P.C.

Getting Divorced in Virginia? Unearthing Your Authentic Self

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Divorce can cause your whole world to crumble, rocking your personal foundation and your identity in the process. If you’re getting divorced in Virginia, it may be time to assess who you really are, and begin to unearth your authentic self.

Norfolk divorce attorneys witness scores of women struggling to find their new identity after a divorce. It’s hard to let go of your past and to uncover your genuine self, which can be buried deep under years of repressed emotions and heavy societal roles and responsibilities.

You can start the journey to the “true you” and redesign your life by:

listening to your intuition – there’s a reason humans developed that sense back in the stone age;
evaluating whether or not your public persona resonates with your true passions and desires;
asking yourself, “will this bring me happiness, peace, and fulfillment?” before making any decisions; and
talking about your new life journey with a Norfolk life coach.

You deserve to live your life in a way that makes your soul sing. Isn’t it about time to release self-imposed limitations and beliefs that no longer serve you, and to befriend your authentic self, especially after getting divorced? In Virginia, if you need help with any legal aspects of your divorce, contact a Norfolk divorce attorney for a consultation.

Contacting a Norfolk Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

A Norfolk divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

5 Damaging Online Faux Pas to Avoid after a Divorce in Virginia Beach

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

You may not realize just how important your online networking and social activity becomes after getting divorced in Virginia. Virginia Beach divorce attorneys warn those in the midst of divorce of the dangers of online activity, and how opposing attorneys can use what you post online against you in court.

Tread lightly online, and be wary of what would arise if someone did a search on you or dug through your profiles.

Avoid negative talk – some people make the mistake of ranting about the judge’s decisions. Try to remain neutral about the situation.
Keep kids out of It – in custody battles, you don’t want to post anything negative about your ex or the kids. The courts look unfavorably on bringing kids into the parent problems..
Be careful with photos – a picture tells a thousand words and attorneys know how to use your pictures to cast a not-so-favorable light on you.
Don’t brag – in the middle of a divorce, posting pictures of big purchases could make you seem uncaring about the severity of the divorce, especially if alimony is up for debate.
Know who your friends are (or aren’t) – if your friends tag you in photos or posts, it can spell trouble for you. You may need to close down your social media accounts until after your divorce in Virginia.

For any questions about how your online activity could thwart your divorce or custody case, seek assistance from a Virginia Beach divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

3 Things to Remember When Parenting After Divorce in Virginia

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Are you going through a divorce and facing Virginia child custody wars? There are many important details to remember when parenting after divorce, but if you can remember and practice a few basic rules, you'll be off to a good start.

Be realistic about scheduling. Some parents with shared custody insist on splitting the child's time 50/50 between the two households. This isn't always the most practical idea. If, for example, you find that the child's stability is disrupted by spending half the week at 1 parent’s house and the other half of the week at the other, it might be advisable to go with a weekday/weekend split instead.
Keep the lines of communication open. You and your ex should discuss your scheduling, discipline methods, spending and other details of your parenting plans. Also, be sure to talk with your child about any changes taking place after the divorce. This way your child can feel secure, and you and your ex can present a united parenting front and avoid unnecessary disagreements.
Keep it friendly. Even if you and your ex still have issues, don't air them in front of the kids. Calling each other names or being intentionally cruel and disparaging when speaking about (or to) your ex in front of the children isn't healthy and will serve only to make your Virginia child custody arrangement unpleasant.

Even though you are divorced, you are still part of a family, and with some time and patience you and your children can settle into a satisfying new life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

The Power of the Virginia Post-Divorce Makeover

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

After your Virginia divorce, your appearance might be reflecting the stressful, difficult event you just went through. But you survived, and now is a great time for a post-divorce makeover!

Even if you're not ready to tackle the dating scene, your makeover can help give you a boost in self-confidence that will be useful when you want to make new friends or succeed in your career.

Your wardrobe says a lot about you, so why not give it an update? Set aside a day to do a complete closet cleaning. Get rid of anything that doesn’t fit you or is out of style and you don’t like anymore. Reorganizing a closet can be surprisingly therapeutic.

Now it is time to go shopping for some new items! Get some practical, classic wardrobe staples like a pea coat, a little black dress and some button-up shirts that can be mixed and matched. You can throw in a couple fun accessories as well. Bring a friend for an honest review and do some research yourself using fashion sites for inspiration

A new haircut can create a dramatic change the fastest. After your Virginia divorce, a trip to the salon may be just the thing to perk up your look.

A post-divorce makeover doesn’t have to break the bank. Little touches like some new makeup or a few pieces of jewelry can go a long way toward helping you feel refreshed and ready to start your new life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there’s also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

3 Ways to Use Your Lunch Break as a Way to Improve Your Health

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Fitting in fitness throughout your day can not only give you a break from work to refresh your mind but also to help your heart.

Use the first or last 30 minutes of your lunch hour to go for a walk. Whether it’s in a circle around the building or up and down the hallways, get moving. You can even recruit co-workers to stroll with you.
Look for a gym or exercise studio near your work that offers lunchtime classes. Many gyms offer classes in the 12-1 p.m. time slot. By forcing yourself to leave the office it will be easier to commit.

Incorporate moves you can do at your desk to your daily routine. Take a call standing up and shuffling from side to side, do criss-crosses with your legs while checking email. Every little bit can help.

Activities for Valentine's Day in Virginia Beach

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Whether you have been kissed or cursed with Virginia love, there is no shortage of fun and creative ways to spend your Valentine’s Day. Virginia Beach is full of activities for singles, couples, and growing families.

Singles – use this day to gather up the rest of your single friends and spend an evening putt-putting it up at Jungle Golf, a long-time Virginia Beach landmark.
Couples – make a reservation at Mannino’s Italian Bistro for a cozy and romantic Italian dinner.

Families – treat your little ones to some sweet treats and rides to get their hearts pumping at the Virginia Beach boardwalk and even you and the hubby could squeeze in a romantic walk on the beach.

3 Ideas to Set a Romantic Vibe in the Bedroom

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

During a busy week your bedroom can seem more like an office, a dining room table, or just a place to pass out, but with Valentine’s Day on the horizon there are few things you can do to make your abode a bit more inviting.

Declutter – put away the stacks of paper, the dirty laundry or the kid’s toys; nothing kills the mood like being reminded of your everyday stresses.
Spruce up the Place – invest in new linens, candles, or a new piece of art. Small changes can make the room seem like new and make you want to spend more time in it.

Turn off the TV – consider removing the TV from your room altogether or covering it up with a decorative cloth or scarf. Focus on each other rather than turning into a zombie before bed.

Foods to Improve Your Mood for Valentine's Day

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Making dinner for your significant other can be a wonderful Valentine’s Day gesture and there are some key foods you should include to boost your mood.

Asparagus has been rumored to increase histamine production, which is an essential hormone for enjoying time in the bedroom.
Almonds have long been a symbol of fertility and some studies have shown that their aroma has arousal effects in females.
Bananas contain the libido-enhancing chelating minerals and bromeliad enzymes.
Chocolate has long reigned as the top aphrodisiac by not only tasting great but also releasing the “feel good” chemical of phenylethylamine into the brain after ingesting it.

4 Quick and Easy Ways to Trim Your Budget

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Everyone is trying to cut costs these days and there are simple ways to trim your budget that you might not notice except for when making your wallet a little fuller.

Use reward programs –take advantage of the coupons and points stores allot you, saving a little at each store you visit regularly can add up throughout the course of the year.
Finish all the food – be creative and find ways to clean out your pantry and refrigerator before buying more food.
Clean up your online accounts – having your credit card information stored on shopping sites can make it easier to spend without thinking about it. If you have to reach for your card, you might think twice.
Go generic – using the generic brand of everything from prescriptions to toilet paper can save money and you’ll probably never notice the difference.

Meeting Your Child's Emotional Needs After Your Virginia Divorce

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

It's common for parents going through Virginia divorce to have concerns about how the experience will affect their child's emotional health. Divorce is a stressful time for a child, but you can help lessen the strain by following some important tips for parenting after divorce.

Communication is important. You need to stay in communication with your child, making sure they know it's OK to talk with you about their feelings. Also, learn effective ways of communicating with your ex so you can co-parent efficiently.
Avoid trash talking your ex. When you speak badly about your ex, your child can take it personally and also feel that they have to choose between the two of you. This isn't fair to any child, so try and say only positive or neutral things when discussing your former spouse in front of your kids.
Be reasonable when it comes to visitation. You may have some difficult feelings when it comes to your children going to see your ex after your Virginia divorce, but it's best to encourage them to enjoy the time with their father.

Remember that when you're parenting after divorce, cooperation between you and your ex- spouse is important. Your child's security and happiness depends on it. You may have your disagreements on discipline issues or other matters but you should try to be open to compromise. Seek the help of a family therapist if necessary.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Misconceptions about Dating After Divorce in Virginia

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

When you're ready, dating after divorce can be a fun, positive step to take. It's not always easy getting back on the dating scene after years of marriage, but knowing what pitfalls to avoid can help you have a better experience after Virginia divorce.

Some of the common misconceptions about post-divorce dating include:

It will give you more self-confidence. Are you looking to make your ex jealous? Do you feel very lonely and vulnerable and simply want someone's attention? Then it's probably best to wait. Take some time to heal and feel more secure so that you can approach relationships as a fully healed soul.
You need to find someone with more money/social skills/hobbies, etc. than your ex. This is a very common idea, particularly when someone was married for a long time. You may find yourself judging every new man you meet against your ex's traits...both the traits you loved and those you hated. It's best to get over this habit. Your ex-husband is a unique person and whoever you meet, you should enjoy spending time with them for their own special qualities.
Ignore your anxieties because you have to get over them sometime. No matter the situation, dating can cause some anxiety. When dating after divorce, your best bet is to go slowly; try casual lunch dates at first. Go at your own pace.

Allow yourself to heal and to feel ready before you put yourself out there. With time, you can move on and have a full life and rewarding relationships after Virginia divorce.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there’s also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Looking for romance this year? Dating After Divorcing in Virginia

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Have you gone through a Virginia divorce and are ready to meet someone new? Dating after divorce has its rewards and challenges. You have a better chance of success if you begin by improving your own life and confidence.

Sort through your “stuff”. If you have a large amount of items from your marriage, go through them and decide what to keep and what to let go.

Dating after divorce can be easier when you have had some closure. Be mindful of your health. The months following divorce can be rough on your diet, sleep schedule, and general health. Take steps to get your self-care back on track so you can go back on the dating scene feeling great.

Mind your money. It's common to have financial concerns after divorce. Take the time to learn financial management skills so that you can have your independence whether you're single or attached.

Invest in family time. You and your kids have been through a lot emotionally. Take the time to maintain your relationships so that you can build a healthy family base.

Build a support system. After your Virginia divorce, your friendships might change. Before you head back onto the dating scene, take time cultivating friendships with those who will support you and cheer you on.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. – 757-425-5200.

Turning Over a New Leaf After Divorce - 4 Tips to Get Healthy & Happy

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you recently got divorced in Virginia, a lot has changed in your life. When building your new post-divorce life, you should be aware of the health effects of divorce as well as ways to enhance your happiness and well-being.

Get adequate sleep. The stress of divorce can lead to changes in sleep habits. Take control of your sleep schedule by setting a bedtime for yourself and using relaxation techniques to encourage z's.

Overhaul your diet. Even if you're not looking to lose weight, most of us can use a few improvements in the eating department. When you're making dietary changes don't forget the essential fatty acids that are found in things like:

fish;
eggs; and
nuts.

Your mom was right; breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Opt for quick, fiber-filled options.

You may not think much about your teeth everyday, but medical experts know that oral health is tied to overall health because the bacteria in the mouth can lead to various health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Just one more reason to brush and floss daily!

Getting divorced in Virginia can make your life chaotic. You might find yourself grabbing soda and coffee throughout the day to keep you going, and your hydration levels suffer as a result. Make a commitment to drink more water, and don't forget about tea; there are some promising evidence that it can prevent a variety of health problems.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there’s also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

New Year, New Plan: Reinventing Yourself After a Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you've recently gone through a Virginia divorce you're probably still feeling the effects as you enter the new year. Coping after divorce can be particularly difficult during the holidays, but afterward you may be looking for ways to make a fresh start.

Look after yourself. Physical health can affect emotional health, and vice versa. If you've been depressed and upset following your breakup, and that has influenced your eating and sleeping habits, now is the time to try and get them back on track. Also, you can look into new exercise plans, vitamins...whatever will help you feel your best.

Rediscover your passion. Sometimes in a relationship, you can lose your distinct identity as you conform to the likes and dislikes of your partner. After your Virginia divorce, you can do some soul-searching to find out who you really are and what you really love. Maybe you can re-adopt an old hobby or start a new one; volunteer or look into changing or enhancing your career.

Changing your look can be a fun way of coping after divorce. Even if you don't feel like making a big change, or spending a lot of cash, you can still brighten and freshen your look in small ways like hair color, a few new flattering clothing items, or some new makeup.

Be social. Take a break from your old scene and begin exploring new places. Try new bars and clubs, or join a club to connect with others who share your interests. Don't let anyone pressure you into dating again until you're ready.

Contacting a Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Taking Control of Your Virginia Divorce

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you're a woman faced with a Virginia divorce, you should have a Hampton divorce attorney on your side. News that your spouse is filing for divorce can sometimes come as a surprise and, when it does, you need to stand up for what's rightfully yours.

Take for instance, the case of Pilar Sanders, wife of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Pilar found out about her husband's decision to end their marriage one day when she was checking the popular celebrity news site, TMZ.

In a news story, Deion told a reporter that he and his wife had decided to divorce based on a decision that would be in their best interests.

Despite being shocked and hurt by her husband's unilateral decision and careless announcement, Pilar is now ready to face whatever her future holds. She has hired an attorney and says she is prepared to “protect herself and her children.” The couple had been married since 1999 and have 3 children together, which could cause a lengthy divorce and child custody battle.

While you and your husband's split probably won’t make the tabloids, your Virginia divorce is an important event that may have long-standing effects in your life. Having a Hampton divorce lawyer to help guide you through the intricacies of the divorce process can make all the difference in the way your divorce plays out.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

The Connection Between Weight Gain after a Divorce in VA

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

After divorce in Virginia, your life changes in many ways. You may have challenges in your finances, your emotions and your physical health. Weight changes are among the common health effects of divorce.

A recent study shows that both marriage and divorce can cause “weight shocks” that can lead to small weight gains. Researchers found that females tend to gain weight in the first 2 years of marriage while divorce is the weight gain time for men.

Women's weight gain following marriage can be related to childbearing as well as to household responsibilities. Women tend to have a less predictable, more varied schedule than men do, which can keep them from getting into a regular workout routine.

The weight gain risk following divorce is slightly higher for men. Marriage tends to be beneficial to men's health; after a divorce men lose that health benefit, and might pick up unhealthy lifestyle habits as they settle into single life.

Those who are getting a divorce in Virginia can recover from any weight changes by eating healthy and working some physical movement into their schedule. You might not be ready to take control of your weight in the stressful time immediately following divorce, but managing the health effects of divorce can be a part of your overall recovery plan.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney for Women

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there’s also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

When Leaving an Abusive Husband and Heading Toward a Virginia Divorce

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Leaving an abusive husband is a courageous act. If you're a woman facing Virginia divorce from an abusive spouse, take steps to protect yourself and your children as you make your exit.

Unfortunately, it's not unusual to hear of violent acts committed by one ex-spouse against another. Recently, a Grapevine, Texas man allegedly opened fire on his estranged wife and 7 others during a Christmas celebration. The details of the case are still unclear, but this tragedy is one many incidents that calls attention to the seriousness of domestic violence.

If you're escaping a dangerous relationship, your top priority should be remaining as safe as possible after your departure:

obtain a restraining order against your ex-husband before the divorce;
change your locks;
change your phone number, and your important passwords to protect your privacy;
switch the routes you normally take to work and school.
change jobs or alter your work hours (if possible);
install secure locks on doors ;
replace light wood doors with heavier wood or metal;
install a security system and/or motion sensor lights;
keep your cell phone on or near you at all times; and
build a support system of caring people who are aware of your situation. For example, your children's school should be informed and given a copy of your restraining orde

While leaving an abusive husband might initially be stressful, with the right help and support you should be able to move on and start a safe secure new future.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Be a Katy Perry, Not a Kim Kardashian, in Your Divorce

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Katy Perry met media inquiries about her divorce from Russell Brand with a dignified silence, which she finall broke by tweeting gratitude to her supporters and stating that she had no comments to make on her divorce, and that others did not speak for her in their comments to media sources. Smart girl!

On the other hand, Kim Kardashian has very publicly broadcast private details about the breakdown of her brief marriage, and has even tweeted insults about her husband, Kris Humphries.

While I am a fan of Kim Kardashian, I am glad I'm not her divorce lawyer!

Often, spouses going through a divorce to try to save face by telling too much to too many. Some divorcing spouses have even made the mistake of wanting to "puff" to their exes and telling them, in detail, the strategy that they and their lawyers plan to use in their divorce! It is important to protect yourself by being a Katy and not a Kim:

1. Never discuss your divorce strategy with anyone other than your divorce attorney without your lawyer's permission. In addition to ruining the strategy, you can also waive your right to attorney/client confidentiality by sharing your discussions with your attorney with other people.

2. Never tweet about your divorce.

3. DO NOT post status updates or other information about your divorce, your ex, or anyone new in your life on Facebook or other social media sites.

4. Do not text, email, or post photos unless you would be proud for the judge in your divorce trial to see them.

As tempting as it may be to tell everyone you know (and everyone you don't know) your side of the story and to show your ex how you are living it up now that he is out of your life, do yourself and your divorce attorney a favor and don't do it. Be discreet. Your silence can never hurt and can only help your divorce case. You will thank me later!

Healing a Broken Heart after a Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

Coping after divorce isn't always easy. Even if the practical aspects of your life are in order following your Virginia divorce, your emotions may still need much more time to heal.

Oscar-winning actress Sandra Bullock might seem to have an enviable life, but when her marriage to husband Jesse James fell apart after the revelation of his multiple affairs, she experienced intense emotional pain.

Bullock recently revealed that she felt “permanently broken” in the aftermath of her divorce, and that it affected her acting career. She felt content to stay out of the public eye, until she was offered a script that inspired her to start working again. The new opportunity helped her to get back on her feet doing what she loves and has been a big part of her process of coping after divorce.

Many divorcees find that enjoyable work and hobbies provide relief from the emotional hurt of divorce. They can provide comfort and give you goals for the future.

It doesn’t matter who you are. Divorce can deal a serious blow that has lasting effects on your life. Grieving and building a new life after your divorce in Virginia can be a long and challenging process. Even if it seems difficult at times, you can find healing, be happy again and thrive in your new life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Divorce Anxiety May Cause Some Couples to Postpone Marriage

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 EST

If you're getting divorced in Virginia, you're not alone. The social effects of divorce are far-reaching. While the stigma of divorce has lessened over the years, the prevalence of divorce in society can change people’s attitudes about marriage and relationships.

A study published in the journal Family Relations shows that an overwhelming number of men and women between the ages of 18 and 36 are anxious about the prospect of divorce.

This apprehension about divorce can affect relationships, causing some couples to put off marriage for fear of “failure”. While personal experience with divorce (i.e. having experienced parental divorce growing up) can cause a person to be more anxious about their own ability to maintain a long-lasting marriage, one doesn’t have to have a personal experience in order to have divorce anxiety.

Researchers say that while the social effects of divorce are very real, they don't have to stand in the way of a couple having a healthy relationship. Premarital counseling can be a way to address anxiety and fear about marriage and give a couple strategies for handling some common relationship problems.

Your Virginia divorce may be due in part of social climate, but the power to protect yourself and what belongs to you is in your hands. Take control by knowing your legal rights and facing your post-divorce future with courage.

Contacting a Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. – 757-425-5200.

Burden of Virginia Divorce on Pets

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

It's not uncommon for a couple's pets to become objects of a dispute over division of property in a Virginia divorce, but it's the pets' emotional well-being that should be the first concern.

Though technically pets are considered “property” and the laws of division of property usually apply to them, many pet owners see them as much more than that. In many ways, pets are a part of the family. They bring fun, love and emotional comfort to their owners and are greatly missed when they're gone. This is why ownership of pets can be such a source of contention.

Many divorce lawyers report that they have seen couples with no children fight over a dog or cat much in the same way as divorcing parents fight over custody of a child. It can be difficult for both pet and owner to face the realities of custody during a Virginia divorce. Although your pet won't know exactly what's happening, he or she may very well pick up on your stress and tension and sense that something is amiss.

No matter which partner ends up being granted ownership of your furry friends, you can help provide them with love and stability. For example, you can share “parenting” responsibilities with your ex, such as taking the dog to vet visits. If you'll be sharing custody of the animal, you might also want to make sure that your pet has toys and other comfort objects at both homes.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Divorced in Virginia: What to do with Marriage Stuff

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you’re divorced in Virginia, you may feel the need to deal with the material reminders of your marriage. Sorting out memorabilia can be a way of coping after divorce, because it brings closure to the painful event and allows you to look to the future.

Some divorcees keep all or most of the physical items from their marriage, while others prefer to let these items go. Your approach to change and your grieving style will dictate the way you handle these choices. Sometimes, it's not very easy to decide what's best.

One possible approach involves finding a happy medium, keeping some items and sending others on their way. For example, you can choose 2 special items to hold on to. These can be wedding souvenirs or other items. One of these will be the “keeper”, or, in other words, a souvenir of your married life.

Next, choose an item that you can use to symbolically let go of your marriage. You can do this by burning or burying the item. Some women choose to do this as part of their divorce party or as a personal ritual used as a means of coping after divorce.

Finally, take the remaining items and dispose of them however you want. You don't have to throw everything away; some items can be donated to thrift stores where they can bring happiness to others, while you move on to your new life after a Virginia divorce.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney for Women

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

When the Courts Re-Review Your Virginia Child Custody Order

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you’re getting a divorce in Virginia, custody will naturally be one of your biggest concerns. If you’re not comfortable with the court’s Virginia child custody order because circumstances have changed, you can file a petition and have the courts re-review your case.

To begin with, you should know that if you want to change the custody arrangement, you’ll have the burden of proving to the courts that there’s a significant reason it should be altered. Considering the complexity of proving that there is a significant reason your custody arrangement should be altered, you should talk the matter over with your Virginia child custody lawyer to discuss your petition and best present your case.

When you decide to seek a custody change, the general chain of events includes:

consulting with your attorney;
gathering all necessarily paperwork;
filing your petition; and
waiting for the court’s ruling.

Remember, after getting a divorce, the Virginia court that made the original custody order retains jurisdiction over your case, and you’ll need to provide them with compelling reasons the order should be altered, such as drug abuse or physical abuse.

Before you petition the courts, make sure to run your situation by your attorney to make sure your case is substantial and thoroughly prepared, and to ask specific questions about your parenting plan or custody agreement.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Lawyer

Throughout your child custody proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

A Virginia child custody lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

VA Child Custody Lawyer Explains What Constitutes as Material Changes

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When something significant has happened and you want to change your Virginia child custody order, you’ll have to work with your Virginia child custody lawyer to discuss how to demonstrate what’s known as “material changes.”

Just because the courts made a final judgment about the custody, doesn’t mean that you can’t seek to change it. The courts have a “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” mentality, though. You’ll have to prove that substantial changes have transpired that warrant a change to their original order.

There are numerous circumstances that the courts deem as important enough to necessitate change in a custody agreement:

a parent violates the original agreement;
drug abuse becomes a factor;
there has been evidence of child abuse (something the Child Protective Services division of the Virginia Beach Department of Social Services (DSS) should be immediately notified of);
a parent becomes involved with an abusive partner;
one or both parents remarry;
a parent’s ability to raise or provide for the children changes;
one or both parents relocate;
there have been crucial employment or economic changes;
illness or disability has become a factor; or
the noncustodial parent’s relationship with the children becomes threatened.

If you’re trying to regain custody of your children, or simply change the Virginia child custody agreement you and your ex created, the first step you’ll need to take is to speak with a Virginia child custody lawyer who can help you prepare your petition.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Lawyer

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Avoid the April Crunch: Filing Your 2011 Taxes Early

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Filing your taxes can be a long and complicated process, which can lead to putting it off until the very last minute. Avoid rushing around this year and follow a few simple tips to get your 2011 taxes filed early:

Gather all the documents you need to file early and keep them together in an easy to access location.
E-file online, depending on your tax situation. The IRS allows you to do this to speed up the process and cut down the paperwork. You can have records and important information e-mailed to you or mailed to your home as a backup.
Find and hire an accountant early if you are using one to file your taxes, before they are overbooked and more expensive.

Filing your taxes early and accurately not only helps alleviate stress but it can mean an early refund if you’ve got one coming to you, and who wouldn’t like that?

4 Health Resolutions to Make in the New Year

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

“Lose weight” and “eat better” are tops among health-related New Year’s resolutions, but they’re not the only body-conscious choices you can make as you head into 2012. Here are 4 healthy resolutions to consider as you get ready to toast the New Year:

Think outside of the gym – instead of joining the masses at an expensive health club, think of other ways to sneak exercise into your routine. Starters include walking a few laps around the building on your lunch break, taking a dance break when you get home from work or mowing your own lawn.
Take care of your bones – osteoporosis is a major health issue for 80 percent of women ages 50 and older. Add more calcium to your diet by eating salmon, dark green veggies and beans.
Go to the doctor – being up-to-date on health screenings can save your life. Take a day to set up all of your appointments for the entire year so you can’t put it off. These include the gynecologist, dentist, and your primary care physician.
Quit smoking – if you’re still hooked, break the habit for good in 2012. Don’t let past failures discourage you; it can be done! Talk to your doctor about new techniques and medications that could be the ticket to success. Never quit quitting.

Keeping Kids Busy in Winter Weather

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are your kids cooped up in the house now that the chilly weather has settled in? Keep them occupied and keep your sanity by coming up with fun indoor activities until it warms up. Below are 3 fun ideas that are fit for the family:

Have a movie theater day complete with popcorn, candy and special chairs. You can even have the kids draw up movie posters and then later give a review.
Give them a few chores to do around the house – reap the benefits of having them inside! Not only will it give them something to do, it can take a few things off of your list.
Put on some upbeat music and have a dance party. They’ll get some exercise and burn off some energy.

These ideas should help to get the ball rolling, but don’t forget to ask your kids if they’ve got any bright ideas and then help them to make those a reality. An investment of a few minutes of brainstorming could buy you a few hours of peace around the house.

Eat Up! 7 Foods to bring you Luck in 2012

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Wishing for some luck in the New Year? There are some dishes rumored to bring good fortune to those who eat them on New Year’s Day. And if a New Year’s resolution is to shed a few pounds or eat better these 7 dishes will fit perfectly into your plan:

greens like spinach and collard greens – symbol for money;
black-eyed peas – another symbol for money and coins;
salmon – fish swim in schools symbolizing abundance;
fruit – for a “sweet” New Year;
noodles and grains – symbols of long life;
pork – pigs are known symbols of luck; and
cake – ring-shaped cakes are a symbol of coming full circle.

Grab a fork and bite into prosperity for 2012!

Clear the Clutter: 4 Ways to a Cleaner Closet in 2012

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Does your closet look like something out of Hoarders? Don’t fret; with these 4 tips, you’ll be well on your way to an organized 2012:

Start small – don’t try to tackle an entire closet in one day. You’ll get overwhelmed and quit. Schedule 1 hour a day to make it more manageable.
Be realistic – can you talk yourself into saving almost anything? If you haven’t worn it in years, it’s broken or you don’t know what it is – sell it, give it away, or trash it.
Don’t buy organizational products…yet – it’s tempting to buy all sorts of containers and baskets before you start. Wait to find out what you really need before wasting money on something that doesn’t work in the space.
Commit to keeping it up – once you’ve got a clean and organized closet, prevent another clutter meltdown by committing to putting things back where they belong. It takes only few seconds and can save you hours of organizing later. For everything new you bring into the closet, commit to purging an item that’s simply taking up space.

Protecting Your Kids from the Effects of Divorce in Virginia

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

For parents facing divorce in Virginia, the well-being of their children is at the top of their list of concerns. Kids deal with their parents' breakup in a variety of ways, but some basic guidelines for parenting after divorce can help make the experience go more smoothly.

Three Tips to Protect Your Children through Divorce in Virginia

First, children handle difficult situations better when they're prepared beforehand. While you may find it difficult to talk with your children about your divorce, it's better than springing it on them at the last minute. You don't have to give your kids all the details about your divorce; just let them know the basics so they won't be shocked when the changes begin.

Second, children will probably want to know how your divorce will affect their lives. Let them know how things will be changing, for example, if you’ll be moving, or if they’ll be spending weekends with their dad at his new home. Parenting during divorce means reassuring your kids of the primacy of family even though the family is going through transition.

Third, take your kids' wishes into consideration. There's a lot about divorce that your children can't control, and this can make them feel anxious and afraid. If they can have some input about some of the arrangements and changes that come with the divorce (i.e., if a child has reasons to want to spend a certain day or holiday with a particular parent) it can help them cope better.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar –.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. – 757-425-5200.

Creating New Holiday Family Traditions after Your Separation in VA

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Approaching the holidays while going through a separation in VA can be especially difficult when you’ve got children; they rely on their parents as the foundation for their sense of happiness and security, a need that seems to magnify during the holidays.

The key to helping your children through the difficult transition time is to temporarily put aside your own negative emotions, and instead focus on creating new, positive traditions for you and your children to embrace.

Here are 3 fun and festive activities to try:

Holiday Lights – why not make it a tradition to go driving around to admire all the holiday lights and decorations together? You could start at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which has an awesome display of lights sure to bring about plenty of “ooohs” and “ahhhs.”
Take in a Show – you could make it a new tradition to get dressed up and venture out to see a show together. The Sandler Center, for example, often has holiday performances where you and your children can go and simply enjoy each other’s company.
Volunteer –make a difference and keep the true spirit of the holidays in the forefront of your minds by helping those less fortunate. Why not make it a new tradition to donate your time and efforts at a local ministry such as Union Mission Ministries or For Kids?

The holidays are steeped in tradition, and you should feel free to release the ones that no longer serve you or your children after your separation in VA. For any questions regarding your divorce or for help with handling your holiday visitation schedule, speak to your Virginia child custody lawyer.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Lawyer

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you’ll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

A Virginia child custody lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

A Quick Refresher on Virginia Child Custody Laws

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you’re going through a divorce and there are children involved, it’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with Virginia child custody laws; the more prepared you are, the better you’ll be able to handle any rough waters ahead.

Consider working with a Norfolk child custody lawyer who can help familiarize you with important laws that may affect your case. One of the most common questions about custody that parents have is, “How do the courts make custody decisions?”

In a nutshell, the courts make “the best interests of the child” their priority. They consider a number of factors when determining how to assign custody, including:

the age and needs of the child;
the child’s relationships to siblings, peers, and extended family;
the age and health of the parents;
how involved each parent is with the child and the nature of the existing relationships;
each parent’s current and future role in the child’s life;
the willingness of each parent to support the child’s relationship with the other parent and when dealing with parenting issues;
the child’s preferences (if at a reasonable developmental level); and
any family history of abuse.

For an excellent overview of divorce and Virginia child custody laws, and to hear other women’s stories who are dealing with similar custody issues, consider attending a divorce seminar in Virginia Beach, Newport News, or Chesapeake. In Norfolk, a child custody lawyer will be your primary source of information and counsel when you have specific questions regarding your custody arrangement.

Contacting a Norfolk Child Custody Lawyer

Our Norfolk divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Norfolk divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

5 Tips for Handling a Virginia Beach Divorce during the Holidays

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The holidays are meant to be a happy time but a divorce can throw all your plans into a tailspin. It's not easy dealing with a Virginia Beach divorce at this sentimental time of year, but with some planning and strategy, you might find ways of coping during divorce that work for you:

Plan ahead. Divorce is stressful enough without having to suffer the effects of a chaotic schedule. Use a planner to write down what you need to buy and where you need to be. Be realistic and don't take on more responsibilities or events than you can.
Think of the children. Your kids are going through a lot and may express their emotional pain in surprising ways. When making holiday plans, take this into consideration.
Don't overdo it. It might be best to avoid events that run late when taking your children with you. That way you can keep the whining and crankiness to a minimum.
Create new family traditions. Face the changes in your life head-on by making some positive changes of your own. You can devise your own meaningful holiday traditions if the old ones are no longer possible or desirable.
Reach out. Loneliness is a common emotion for women facing the holidays during a Virginia Beach divorce. Your social circle may look different than it did just a short time ago, but you should reach out to the family and friends you trust. You may also find it helpful to talk with a licensed therapist.

Contacting a Woman Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Protecting Your Business During A Separation in VA

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

Women business owners going through a separation in VA need to think about protecting their assets. A Virginia Beach divorce attorney can advise you on the best steps to take to secure your business.

Forbes.com suggests women business owners going through a separation in VA or elsewhere keep the following in mind:

What do you want to do with your business? Think about whether you’d like to do a total buyout of your husband’s portion of the business, or sell it and divide the profit, or form a trust, or transition roles or maybe just keep the status quo.
Is the business separate or martial property? Separate property usually is that which was owned prior to the marriage, an inheritance, a gift or payment received in a personal injury judgment. All other property acquired during the marriage is usually marital property.
Is your state an equitable distribution or a community property state? A separation in Virginia falls under equitable distribution where the length of marriage, the age and health of the parties, the income and future-earning capacity are considered when determining a settlement.
What is the value of your business? Analyzing your business’ value throughout its existence, including since your separation, may help negotiate your position.

With a separation in VA, women business owners owe it to themselves to consult with a Virginia Beach divorce attorney who can help them find the answers to these questions and lead them toward a just settlement.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and those of your family.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

3 Tips to Help with Separation in VA During the Holidays

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 EST

The holidays can present some unique challenges when you're getting separated in Virginia. This is an emotional time of year, but taking some simple steps now can help you get on the road to coping with separation.

Three Useful Tips to Help You through Separation in VA during the Holiday Season

First, self care is important but often falls by the wayside when we're stressed and busy, and if you're going through a separation during the holidays, you’re likely feeling both of those. Be sure you're getting adequate rest, nutrition, and downtime.

Second, plan ahead. Make a schedule and stick with it, and be sure not to overburden yourself with too many tasks to do or events to attend.

Third, creating new holiday traditions can be a good way of coping with separation. It may not be possible to go forward with your usual family routine, but you can embrace the change as something positive and put your own unique spin on the holiday season.

There are specific rules for separation in Virginia. You and your spouse generally have to live apart and not act like a couple for 6 months to a year. If you reconcile with your spouse according to the rules the “separation clock” will be set back to the beginning. Be sure you continue adhering to the guidelines during the holiday season, even though it's a sentimental time that might temporarily make you emotional about your ex.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Prenups: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, after a Separation in VA

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you’re going through a separation in VA you need to revisit your prenuptial agreement to see if your assets have been well-protected. A divorce lawyer in Virginia Beach may be able to determine whether you have a solid prenuptial agreement.

A prenuptial agreement is defined as a contract between two people who are about to marry regarding their respective property and support rights upon termination of the marriage by divorce or death. It also may cover the property rights during the marriage.

Differences between Good and Bad Prenups

What are the differences between a good and a bad prenuptial agreement? A prenuptial agreement where one party is pressured into signing the paperwork is usually highly suspect. This is true particularly if one party is asked to sign it close to the wedding day without time for legal consultation. Additionally, a prenup that is unfair and obviously one-sided is not recommended for anyone.

A good prenuptial agreement will:

be between two consenting adults;
be entered into voluntarily by both parties;
have legal representation for both parties;
have full disclosure of assets and liabilities; and
be fair.

A separation in VA calls for a divorce lawyer in Virginia Beach to review your situation and applicable prenuptial agreement to help you proceed.

Contacting a Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and those of your family.

The Virginia Beach divorce lawyers at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Virginia Divorce Statutes and Pendente Lite

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

You've decided to end your marriage and have hired a Chesapeake divorce lawyer, now it's time for the first hearing. Virginia pendente lite hearings are designed to address the pressing matters in the divorce.

Separating couples go into a divorce with their lives intertwined. It can take a year or more for a divorce to be finalized, but there are issues that need immediate attention. Virginia statutes dictate that pendente lite orders can be issued regarding these important matters.

For example, it's not practical to wait until the divorce is finalized to have legal arrangements in place for the children of the marriage, so there may need to be temporary orders issued regarding:

health coverage for the children;
child custody; and
child support.

Divorce can be a major financial burden for the spouse with the lower income, so the court may issue temporary orders of financial support for the lower-earning spouse. There may also be decisions made regarding which spouse is responsible for the couple's debt.

The family home is also a major issue in a divorce that may be dealt with during a pendente lite hearing. While no final decisions about property division will be made, the court can issue a temporary order stating who has access to and use of the marital dwelling.

It's wise to have your Chesapeake divorce lawyer with you at the pendente lite hearing and throughout the entire divorce process since it can become complex.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Divorce in Virginia and your Friends: How to Avoid a Meltdown

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

As hard as it is for you, it can be equally difficult for your friends to learn you’re getting a divorce. In Virginia, like any major life change, divorce can change the dynamic between you and the important people in your life. A Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women may be able to help provide you with local resources to ease this transition time for you and your friends.

Where have all my friends gone?

If you are finding it hard to make contact with your friends since your choice to go solo, know that you are not alone. Many women find their friends do a disappearing act as they process a divorce.

Some reasons your friends might seem distant:

they don’t know what to say, which can be especially true when your friend knows both you and your husband. He or she may feel caught in the middle of the issues.
they fear they could be next. It's human nature to worry that whatever is happening to someone else might happen to you. Your friends may start to doubt the stability of their own relationships.
the conversation is one-sided. Your confidant may start to feel overloaded with divorce talk, and may miss sharing with you all the things going on in his or her life.

Try not to lose yourself in the divorce. In Virginia, you have the option of getting support from a Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women who can help get you back into your life.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney for Women

At this vulnerable time, it’s critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and those of your family.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.

Understanding Pendente Lite in a Virginia Divorce

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

A divorce can take quite some time from start to finish, and it wouldn't be practical to let these issues go unaddressed until the divorce is finalized. In this instance, a Virginia pendente lite hearing is important because its purpose is to temporarily settle the pressing issues of the divorce, like child support, child custody, and the rights to the marital home.

The decisions made at a Virginia pendente lite hearing aren't final, but they can remain in effect for an extended period of time if the trial drags on. This can be a frustrating situation for you if the judgments aren't what you expected or wanted.

This is especially true when it comes to child custody arrangements. The court is not quick to change a child's living situation if it seems stable and acceptable, so the arrangement decided on during the pendente lite hearing could end up being kept in the final order. However, this may not happen in every case.

If you're facing a Virginia divorce, be sure to have your divorce attorney when you appear at your pendente lite hearing so that your rights and interests can be represented and you can have a better chance of a favorable outcome.

Contacting a Newport News Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200

Introduction of a Virginia Pendente Lite Hearing

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you and your spouse are ending your marriage, you should become familiar with the terminology associated with divorce in Virginia. Pendente lite is one of the terms you may hear from your Hampton divorce attorney.

Pendente lite translates to "pending litigation." At a pendente lite hearing, the judge addresses the pressing matters in the divorce and makes temporary decisions regarding them. These temporary judgments often stay in effect until the final decisions are made during divorce litigation.

In a divorce, there are many important matters like the court needs to decide:

whether there will be spousal support;
how much child support needs to be paid;
which parent will have custody of the children; and
which spouse will be living in the marital home.

The court looks at much financial information along with your child's progression and happiness to make the decisions about support in pendente lite hearings. The decisions may be changed at a later time as the case goes on and further information is obtained.

Often, the date for the pendente lite hearing is sent along with the Complaint for Divorce. It's important that you appear at this hearing, and that you have your Hampton divorce attorney with you.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

4 Ways to Fight Holiday Weight Gain

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

You know the routine; the holidays approach and our best intentions - "I'll exercise everyday!" or "No processed foods or sugary sweets for me!" - fly out the window.

The New York Times says the average American gains 1 pound during the winter holiday season, but for many of us, that may seem a conservative estimate. It doesn't have to be that way!

Want to fight holiday weight gain and the reciprocal negative health effects? We've got 4 easy tips on how to keep off the extra pounds as you enjoy a happy and healthy holiday season.

Plan ahead - Got a full itinerary of holiday parties that you know will be filled with glorious dessert tables and free-flowing rivers of champagne? Before you head out to each event, picture yourself there and how you will interact with any temptation that will come your way. Come up with a plan to cope with multiple scenarios. It may be as simple as thinking "As soon as I walk in the door, I'll get a glass of sparkling water and a lime wedge so that I won't get off track by drinking all those cocktails."
Keep track of your calories - Even if you don't "journal" your eating choices the rest of the year, by committing to logging everything you ingest at all of your holiday gatherings, you're more likely to skip that extra Christmas cookie or second dollop of mashed potatoes.
Never go hungry - Before a big party or dinner event, eat a bowl of vegetable soup, an apple, or a handful of almonds. Showing up at a party famished can lead to overindulgence.
Sneak in physical activity wherever you can - The holidays can be a stressful time for many, and exercise can help you to take care of your physical and mental health. Whether it's a 20-minute walk after dinner or a morning routine of yoga, treat yourself to some daily activity.

5 Fun and Festive Holiday Ideas for the Home

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Not in the mood to drag out those dusty, musty boxes of outdated holiday decorations from the attic this year? If your holiday décor could use a serious update - but you're not looking to blow your entire holiday budget on tinsel and trimmings - we've got 5 easy and economical ideas on fun and festive holiday ideas for the home:

Keep it simple and sophisticated - You don't need to transform your house from top to bottom to affect the holiday look. A few tasteful items in a limited color palette, say, silver and red, will go a long way to creating a cohesive holiday look.
Light it up! - Use candles and votives to lend a romantic, soft feel to any room. Got little ones or pets that make open flames a serious hazard? Get a similar effect with battery-operated candles or by subbing out your regular light bulbs for a lower watt.
The nose has it - Use scented candles, potpourri, or cinnamon brooms (available at many specialty grocers) to give your home an instant holiday scent. Company coming over? Pop some cookies in the oven a few minutes before their arrival.
Switch things up - Giving your space a new feel can be as simple as rearranging the furniture in the room where you'll be spending most of your time. Move the couch to face the fireplace or the Christmas tree. Bring in more cozy chairs from another room; anything to lend that comfy vibe that says "holidays."
Spread the love - Leave a touch of the holidays in every room like seasonal towels in the kitchen or a pine-scented candle in the guest bathroom. Those little touches throughout the house can have a big impact.

Holiday Feast Makeover: 5 Healthy Recipe Substitutions

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Getting ready to host a holiday feast, but you or one of your guests is facing dietary restrictions? There's no reason a low-fat, low-sugar, or low-sodium holiday dish has to be any less inviting than the traditional preparation.

Below, we've got 5 easy swaps - as recommended by the Mayo Clinic - that you can make in your favorite holiday recipes. The results will be healthier, but just as tasty as the original!

Dry bread crumbs - a popular ingredient in casseroles and breaded meat dishes, you can kick up the flavor and trim the empty carbs by subbing in rolled oats or crushed bran cereal instead.
Iceberg lettuce - this dull leaf is low on flavor and practically non-existent when it comes to nutritional value. Try your favorite holiday salad with spinach, or for a real hearty taste, kale or arugula.
Seasoning salt - instead of sprinkling your potatoes with salt, try a mix of freshly ground pepper and dried rosemary instead. And pass on the garlic salt; choose garlic powder as an alternative.
Butter - applesauce is the go-to substitution for butter in many baked dishes, but feel free to experiment with prune puree as well!
Sugar - avoid a sugar overload in your baked goods by halving the sugar in your recipes and augmenting the flavor with a touch more vanilla extract, nutmeg, or cinnamon.

Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Virginia Beach

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are lots of ways to celebrate the season in and around Virginia Beach and now's the time to solidify your holiday 2011 plans. With that in mind, below are 3 Virginia Beach holiday events:

Founders Illumination - The Founders Inn & Spa, 5641 Indian River Rd., Virginia Beach will hold its tree-lighting ceremony on Sunday, Nov. 27. Can't make it that day? Not to worry, the Inn will host tons of holiday events throughout the season with plenty of opportunities to gape at the huge holiday displays. Call 757-424-5511 for details.
Holiday Parade at the Beach - Head to Virginia Beach's gorgeous resort area for the holiday parade on Atlantic Avenue. The shindig kicks off at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 with giant balloons, marching bands, and all kinds of floats. Of course, Santa will be on hand to wish his loyal fans a happy holiday. Call 757-491-7866 for any questions.
McDonalds Holiday Lights at the Beach - This beachside lighting display is a playful nod to our community's nautical roots. Dolphins and fish are side by side with holiday favorites like Santa and his merry elves. Find the festive display in the resort area of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The display is open 5:30 to 10 p.m. nightly and continues through Jan. 1, 2012. Call 757-491-7866 for details and ticket prices.

Don't Blow Your Budget This Holiday Season! 3 Ways to Save Money

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When the Christmas music is blasting on the radio well before Thanksgiving and you feel the warm embrace of the fireside at a friend's holiday get-together, it's easy to be sucked into the holiday spirit. Unfortunately, it's also easy to get sucked into the spending frenzy that can accompany the holidays.

An extra Christmas gift here - "I know I already bought her that sweater, but Susan would love this knit scarf, too!" - and a few last-minute events there - "What the heck - let's go to ‘The Nutcracker'!" - and you may soon find yourself overspending the holiday budget you set back in September.

Whether you actually established a holiday budget or you're flying by the seat of your pants, there are easy ways to save cash this holiday season without feeling like a Scrooge.

Here are 3 easy strategies to enter into the New Year without feeling like you're already in the red:

Find creative alternatives to costly endeavors - Do you usually host a huge blowout with all of your friends, family, and neighbors, complete with an ice sculpture and hired carolers? Scale down with a festive but financially sound shindig, like a holiday potluck and a screening of holiday classics. Ask everyone to bring the one dish that best represents the respective holiday, plus a print out of the recipe for everyone to share.
Go green and save big - Sad to say, but the traditional Christmas cards are going by the wayside; and for a reason. A well-designed e-card is a more affordable and green way to send your holiday wishes. Bonus: procrastinators don't have to fret about missing the United States Post Service's mailing deadlines.
Give the gift of your time - Can't afford to get a gift for everyone on your list of usual suspects? Donate your time or talents, instead. Know a friend who needs help repainting her living room? Give her a card with a Photoshopped image of the two of you in overalls and a thought bubble saying "Good for 5 hours of my painting services! Happy holidays!" So much better than another bottle of lotion or a cookbook!

Child Custody in Virginia: Helping Child Cope after Divorce

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Handling a divorce when you have kids is a difficult experience. Your Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women will help you through the legal aspects of your case, but parenting after divorce is up to you.

Your children need you more than ever during this trying time, and with a solid strategy in place, you can work through the tough times together:

Encourage open, honest communication. You may be surprised at some of the things your children may say to you, but try to remain non-judgmental and give them the comfort and support they need.
Manage your money. Studies show that economic conditions play a large role in how children adjust emotionally after divorce. While you may not be able to avoid the financial setbacks divorce often brings, you can create and abide by a realistic budget, and explain your money-saving choices to your kids in a positive way.
Stay involved. It is best if both parents remain involved in the children's lives to whatever extent they're able. Parenting after divorce isn't easy and co-parenting can be even trickier, but it's worth it in the scheme of things.
See a professional if necessary. A licensed family therapist can help you and your children work through difficult issues. Check online, ask a friend, or ask your Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women for a reference.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Understanding the Grounds for Annulment in Virginia

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

What are the grounds for annulment in Virginia? In Virginia, annulment has a strict set of rules. Most marriages don't meet the qualifications to be annulled, and will have to be ended through divorce. If you're considering annulment, it's a good idea to learn about the guidelines that apply to it.

The first type of marriage that qualifies for annulment is one in which there was a problem or defect in the ceremony itself, making it illegal from the start:

if the person who performed the ceremony wasn't a licensed officiate;
if the partners were close blood relatives; and
if one of the partners was married to someone else at the time of the wedding ceremony.

The second kind of marriage that can be dissolved by Virginia annulment is one where a partner withheld an important piece of information from the other. The most common examples would be cases in which a partner fails to mention his or her infertility, a previous sex change operation or some other major issue that would have an affect on the marriage.

Fraud is the third ground for annulment in Virginia. Fraud is when one partner intentionally tries to trick the other for financial gain or other reasons. This can happen in "green card" marriages and scams and well as other situations.

These annulment grounds can sometimes be difficult to prove. If you want to know whether an annulment is possible in your case, speak with an attorney right away.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Defining Annulment in Virginia

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're considering annulment in Virginia, you should be familiar with what Virginia annulment is and how Virginia family law handles this method of dissolving a marriage. By speaking with a Virginia family law attorney you can avoid any cases of mistaken filing for annulment or otherwise.

If you watch TV, movies, or read tabloids, you might think that annulment is reasonably common and not very difficult to obtain. A celebrity might get married in Las Vegas and then, upon realizing her decision was the result of alcohol-fueled impulsiveness, have the marriage annulled the following day.

There are plenty of misconceptions about what annulment really is and how it works. Annulment isn't just a divorce that's granted when the couple has been married for only a short time; it's the legal act of erasing a marriage entirely. Couples are eligible for annulment only if their marriage is found to have been null and void in the first place.

For example, take a look at actress Renee Zellweger and country star Kenny Chesney. After a speedy courtship, the pair married on a beach in the Virgin Islands. Four months later, Zellweger filed for an annulment on the grounds of fraud.

Neither Zellweger nor Chesney ever publicly discussed the details of their marriage's demise, but fraud would indeed be a valid legal ground for annulment in Virginia and many other jurisdictions.

For answers to further questions about annulment, you should speak with a Virginia family law attorney right away.

Contacting a Virginia Family Law Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar -.

The Virginia family law attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. - 757-425-5200.

Choosing the Best Time to Get a Divorce in Virginia

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Life is full of surprises, and unfortunately they're not always pleasant ones. If you're getting a divorce in Virginia, you may not have that much say in scheduling your split, but if you do have the choice, choose wisely. Your timing can greatly affect your post-divorce finances.

While there's no perfect time for divorce, there are certain conditions in life that can make the transition easier, and it's all about timing:

Before receiving an inheritance. If you're expecting to inherit money or assets, you should divorce before the inheritance comes into your possession. That way, it'll be all yours and not end up being considered marital property.
When your children are in high school. When it comes to finances, divorcing while the kids are older may have some benefits. The child support payer may only have to fulfill that obligation for a few years. Also, if a child is applying to colleges, living with a single parent may help him or her receive financial aid.
When housing prices are strong. If you and your ex are looking to sell the house, you may benefit from divorcing in a sellers market that may allow you to cover your mortgage and walk away with some money left over.
When your credit is good. It's best to go into a divorce with credit that's good enough to weather the storm and allow you to obtain the things you will need in order to start your new single life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Overview of Virginia Annulment Due to Marital Defect

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are several reasons why a couple may be granted an annulment in Virginia. Under Virginia family law, a marriage may be annulled due to marital defect as well as other grounds.

What is marital defect? It's a legal problem with the marriage that made it null and void at its inception. It means that the marriage didn't legally happen or shouldn't have taken place.

There are several scenarios to which this can apply:

if one or both partners were underage at the time of the marriage and didn't have proper parental permission to legally marry;
in cases of consanguinity (the partners are close relatives) which applies whether or not they knew they were related at the time of marriage; and
if one of the spouses was married before and never legally got divorced from him or her.

If your marriage falls into one of these categories, you're likely eligible for an annulment; however, you should seek the advice of an attorney. Even if a marriage was considered invalid from the start, it's still a good idea to have legal counsel on your side to help you separate your life from that of your ex-partner. This is especially true if you have children or own joint property. A Virginia family law attorney can get you on the road to recovering from your annulment and getting on with your life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Virginia Child Custody: Child Coping with Absentee Father

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your marriage is over, you and your children may be facing changes that come with divorce and Virginia child custody arrangements. If you're the custodial parent, your kids may need time to adjust to the loss of their father from the home.

While parenting after divorce can be a challenging experience, it can also be one that brings your family closer.

Be honest with your children. Talk to them about the changes that are taking place in your lives and what they can expect. Kids are often upset by a change in routine, but preparation and reassurance can help ease the transition.
Encourage your children to talk to you. Communication is an essential part of successful parenting after divorce. Your kids may be going through some heavy emotions and need a loving, non-judgmental and supportive parent to hear them out.
Avoid insulting talk about the ex in front of the kids. It can be hard to control your emotions during such a challenging time, but it's best to explain their father's absence in a neutral way so that you don't inadvertently put them in the middle of the drama.
Take care of yourself, too. Find a support system of trusted friends and family you can vent your feelings. You can also seek the services of a licensed family therapist who can help you and your children through the challenges of Virginia child custody arrangements and other emotional aspects of divorce.

Contacting Virginia Child Support Lawyers

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Truth about Annulment in Virginia: What Circumstances Qualify

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 08:00:00 EST

Due to some popular misconceptions surrounding annulment, it can be hard to know just what exactly qualifies as grounds for annulment in Virginia. Once you know the guidelines you can decide whether your marriage can be annulled or whether you should seek a Virginia divorce instead.

The grounds for annulment in Virginia are:

Marital defect. This is when the marriage was not legal to begin with for whatever reason. For example, if one of the partners was still married to someone else at the time.
Fraud. This is when the marriage is a sham designed for monetary gain or another dishonest reason; and
Failure to inform the other of an important piece of information. This is usually information that is likely to have an effect on the marriage.

The following are NOT grounds for annulment:

you've ceased to be attracted to your spouse;
you changed your mind about the marriage; and
your partner decides he or she no longer wants to live with you, or moves to a different state.

The question of whether you are eligible for annulment or if you should seek a Virginia divorce is best answered by an attorney. You don't want to waste your time pursuing a course of law that is not applicable to your situation.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Getting a Divorce in Virginia: Choosing Your Child Custody Attorney

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a parent getting a divorce in Virginia, child custody issues are among the most pressing and emotionally charged matters you may encounter. You should decide wisely when choosing the Virginia child custody attorney who can handle your case:

You can seek out an attorney by doing research online and checking with your local Bar Association. You can also ask family and friends for referrals.
Be sure that you and your lawyer can get along. A custody case can take time, and you probably will be spending lots of time with the attorney you choose. Of course you should seek a lawyer who exudes honesty and trustworthiness, and who is sympathetic to what you are going through.
You will want an attorney who is neatly dressed, well spoken, and respectful. Appearance and presentation matter in court.
When choosing a Virginia child custody attorney, it's important to ask questions. How does this lawyer charge (hourly rate, flat fee, etc.)? What is his or her experience with child custody cases? Will the lawyer be delegating your case to someone else at the firm?

By choosing the right lawyer, you can go into your custody case with confidence and look forward to building a new life for yourself and your children after getting divorced in Virginia.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The "Ins" and "Outs" of Living Together While Separated in Virginia

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're facing a Virginia divorce, you may be wondering if living together while separated is an option for you. The answer varies from couple to couple. In general, the courts don't look kindly on in-home separation, but in some cases it may be allowed.

Virginia requires that a couple be separated for 6 months to 1 year before being granted a divorce and normally the couple lives at separate addresses during this period; however, in some cases, the court may accept a couple being separated but are living in the same house.

There are very detailed guidelines for living together while separated. This is necessary to make sure the separation is genuine.

The couple needs to prove to the court that they're living their lives as 2 single people rather than as a married unit including:

ceasing sexual intimacy;
getting separate bank accounts;
no longer sharing meals; and
many other stipulations.

It's also important that the couple no longer present themselves as a married couple to their friends, family and community. They need to be up-front about their separated status.

When you're considering Virginia divorce, you should take time to look at all your options and discuss them with your divorce attorney. Doing so can give you a better picture of what lies ahead for you and make better educated decisions.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar .

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. - 757-425-5200.

Surviving Virginia Separation under the Same Roof

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can you be separated and live in the same house? This question is sometimes asked by couples who are divorcing. Normally, you and your spouse should be living apart when separated, but in some cases there may be exceptions that allow you to pursue Virginia separation under the same roof.

Couples may choose to live together during separation for several reasons, financial reasons being the most common. While separation under the same roof may seem more convenient than supporting separate households, couples should be aware of the realities of this arrangement.

Judges generally disapprove of a couple cohabiting during separation, simply because it's so difficult to prove that they're actually separated, which is why very detailed guidelines are set such as some of the following:

keep separate checking accounts;
try their best to maintain separate living spaces within the same house;
prepare and eat meals separately;
cease presenting themselves as a couple;
explain, in writing, why they chose to have VA separation under the same roof; and
have a 3rd party observe them at home to see that they're not living as a couple.

So, if you're asking the question "Can you be separated and live under the same roof?" the answer is technically yes, but with many stipulations. Speak with your divorce attorney about your separation options.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Pat Robertson's Controversial Advice on Alzheimer's Disease & Divorce

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Televangelist Pat Robertson caused quite a stir with his controversial comments on Alzheimer's disease and divorce. With early onset Alzheimer's on the rise, it's vital for couples to prepare themselves early on with long-term health directives, something a Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women can help you create.

Robertson sparked a lot of unsettling emotions and comments from the religious community when he made statements that justified a divorce when one spouse has Alzheimer's disease. Divorce, especially in cases where there's an ailing spouse, is a heated topic amongst the Christian community.

He made comments that Alzheimer's was, in itself, is a "walking death," and that he wouldn't put people "on a guilt trip" if they wanted a divorce, according to ABC News. This put other religious leaders, as well as medical and social workers who work with families affected by Alzheimer's, in an uproar.

Regardless of a person's marital or religious beliefs, it's devastating when a spouse is diagnosed with Alzheimer's. It's a hard journey that each couple will react differently to, and no one can foresee the future.

It's important to have a living will in place in the event that such a tragedy occurs. If rough waters lay ahead, it's much better to be prepared if one spouse becomes incapacitated. A Virginia Beach divorce attorney for women can help lay out a long-term health plan that provides a feeling of security and actionable steps for spouses.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney for Women

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Virginia Beach divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

4 Ways to Create a More Colorful Home

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

In an eggshell/oatmeal/beige/cream funk? Adding some pops of color to your decorating scheme can really liven up a living space, which is not a terrible idea considering you'll likely be spending more time indoors in the coming months. If your last foray into home décor still gives you shivers - that eggplant wall seemed like a great idea at the time! - we've got 4 tips to help you master color use in the home:

Follow the 60-30-10 rule - Give 60% (wall space) to a dominant color, 30% (upholstery) to the second-tier color and the remaining 10% to the room's accessories.
Balance is everything - You don't want one side of the room to dominate the other, so consider a power flow wherein the darkest colors live on the floor (for instance, a dark stain on a wood floor), with medium shades existing on the walls and the lighter paint shade used for the ceiling.
Transition from one room to the next - Use one color to help transition from one room to the next. Say, for instance, your kitchen opens directly into your dining room. You could use a bold Cardinal red vase on the dining room table and match it to the hand towels used in the kitchen to create a nice cross reference.
Think locally - Try referencing a locale or season when choosing a color scheme. For instance, maybe give a nod to our gorgeous Virginia coastline with soothing shades of blues, browns and green.

7 Autumnal Virginia Crops that Belong On Your Dinner Table

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Fall means harvest time and locavores (those who love to shop for and consume local foods and drink) can fill the pantry with fresh, locally grown produce. Those of us in Virginia Beach are fortunate to have resources like the City of Virginia Beach Farmers Market open on a year-round basis, but it certainly pays to stock up while fall classics are fresh and in abundant supply.

Below are 7 crops that are at their peak in Virginia during fall and yummy ways to use them:

Apples - sweeten a curried sweet potato stew with diced apples or applesauce;
Escarole - throw a pound of chopped escarole into a pot of white bean soup and don't forget the freshly chopped garlic;
Fennel - try roasting fennel bulbs in the oven topped with olive oil, fresh pepper and shaved parmesan;
Parsnips - roast in the oven with other root veggies, like turnips;
Pumpkins - puree pumpkin and add it to your pasta dishes, like lasagna;
Winter squash (acorn, butternut) - perfect for hearty soups or chopped and oven roasted; and
Turnips - roast in the oven with mushroom caps for a hearty vegetable side.

Enjoy these fall flavors with your family and experience the health benefits of consuming fresh, local produce!

Divorce Etiquette Guide: Handling 4 Uncomfortable Situations

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Divorces have a ripple effect; they don't just affect the couple going through the divorce, but their friends and family, too. Understanding divorce etiquette can help you in these uncomfortable situations. If you're the one that's contemplating divorce, you'll need a good divorce attorney in Virginia Beach.

Divorce Etiquette for Uncomfortable Situations

There are basic guidelines that can help navigate 4 common uncomfortable social situations surrounding a divorce:

First Response - upon hearing the news of your friend's divorce plans, it can be difficult to know how to react. Try simply saying "I'm here for you" and then offer her the support and friendship she needs.
Money Issues - after a divorce, if your friend shies away from outings with you due to money difficulties, try dreaming up ways to go out that doesn't cost money.
Choosing Sides - when you have friends that are divorcing, avoid the temptation to choose sides; keep the peace by simply being supportive and understanding to both parties.
Big News - if you have a new relationship or engagement on your hands, you can share the news with your divorced friend, provided you don't rub it in. Be gentle and sensitive when sharing good news and back off if she becomes noticeably upset.

Also, if your friend is in need of a good divorce attorney in Virginia Beach, you can help her scout one out and support her throughout her journey.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

6 Steps to Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With that in mind, below are 6 steps-based on findings from the Mayo Clinic and Susan G. Komen for the Cure-you can take to protect your health and possibly reduce your chances of having breast cancer:

Get moving! - We know - you hear it again and again, but physical activity really is the key to fighting numerous health hazards, from obesity to diabetes and certainly breast cancer.
Watch those cocktails - One small (emphasis on the small, here) glass of red wine daily may provide important antioxidants to protect your heart from disease, but consuming more than 1 drink daily for women/2 drinks for men seriously increases a person's breast cancer risk.
Get screened - Perform monthly self-exams and do not wait to talk to your doctor about when you should begin receiving mammography. Women who are high risk may need to begin much earlier than those who are not, and they may require special screening methods.
Practice healthy eating habits - While some may claim that certain foods will reduce your risk of cancer, there is no definitive connection between, say, fresh fruits and veggies, and fighting cancer. That being said, maintaining a healthy weight through diet is integral to managing risk.
Seek alternatives to HRT - Hormone replacement therapy has been shown to increase a woman's risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about your own risk and what alternatives exist to HRT.
Do some digging into your family tree - Be sure you know your family medical history as far back as possible, and share this info with your OB/GYN.

Breast cancer can't always be prevented, but by managing certain risk factors, you will take big steps to protecting your overall health.

4 Tips to Fix Your Credit Score

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

You know your personal value can't be measured with a number, but to banks, lenders, landlords, car dealerships and the like, your worth is tied to that all-important figure in the personal finances world; the credit score.

Whether your score has taken a beating with the economic downturn or you're looking to pump up your number before you try to secure a mortgage, here are 4 ways you can improve your credit score:

1. Investigate - Request a free copy of your credit report and go over it with a fine-toothed comb, looking for errors and inconsistencies. Don't let a clerical mistake-or worse, identity theft-wreak havoc on your good credit.

2. Automate - Even the most organized woman can let the due date for a cell phone or insurance payment slip by once in awhile. Unfortunately, being a few days late on a bill can impact your score. Set up auto-pay on as many bills as you are able.

3. Maintain - Excited that you paid off a credit card that has been hanging around for months or years? You should be, but don't close the account just yet. The powers-that-be like to see that you've maintained accounts over a span of time, so as tempting as it may be, don't cut and run.

4. Act - Be conscious and take action to improve your credit score. This means proving that you can be responsible with your financial commitments, but it also means knowing when to pull the trigger. When you are applying for a loan, be wary of shopping around for too long, as multiple credit checks performed by lenders actually damage your report.

There is no quick or easy fix for a damaged credit score, but with these few tips you'll be on your way to bouncing back to solid financial footing!

3 Ideas for Fall Travel in Virginia

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Can't swing an exotic getaway this fall? No problem! Who needs a passport and the hassle of airline travel when Virginia is home to some of the most gorgeous vistas imaginable? Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway for two, a weekend with the gals, or a quick trip for the whole fam, you can find plenty of options that are close to home and easy on the pocketbook.

Below are 3 of your fun options for fall travel in Virginia:

Girls Weekend - October is Virginia Wine Month and what better excuse to tour the countryside than visiting local wineries and vineyards? The tourism site of the Commonwealth of Virginia offers a full run-down of all Wine Month activities broken down by region, from Central Virginia to Chesapeake Bay, to the Blue Ridge Highlands, so you can plan your road trip accordingly.
Romantic Getaway - There's a reason they say Virginia is for lovers. Head to lake country in Southern Virginia, where you can view the last of the fall colors, go for a hike, and relax by the fireside in a historic hotel while sipping a glass of locally made wine. Doesn't get more simple or romantic than that!
Family Fun - Fall is a great time to show the kids around the many historic districts in Virginia, like Fredericksburg. Not only can you peep at the leaves, but you'll get to indulge in Halloween activities and other seasonal fun.

Take some time to explore your home state - you might just be surprised what adventure you can find!

Losing hair during your Virginia divorce? Let's Examine the Link

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Everyone who has been through a divorce knows just how much stress can pile up during a divorce. In Virginia, many women have experienced hair loss or thinning hair during this time and researchers have finally made a connection. For help in dealing with stress and new responsibilities as a resident of Hampton, a divorce attorney can help.

A study conducted at Case Western Reserve University found that the strongest predictor of hair loss in woman was marital status. It's been understood for decades that stress is a major factor in hair loss, and there's no doubt that going through a divorce can be one of the most stressful times of a woman's life.

Thinning hair, especially in a society that overemphasizes outer beauty, can be extremely painful and embarrassing for a woman; however, because stress is a lifestyle factor, it can be controlled.

In other words, when you take steps to alleviate or reduce your stress, your body can begin to return to its natural healthy state, which includes your hair. You may not be able to change your divorce, but you can change how you deal with it.

To stop hair loss you can try stress-management techniques like:

mediation;
counseling;
exercising; and
reducing the number of stress-inducing responsibilities you have, such as dealing with the legal hassles of divorce.

Virginia residents living in Hampton, call a divorce attorney to discuss your case and get the help you need in handling the burden of divorce.

Contacting a Hampton Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Virginia Beach divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Red Sox's Lackey Files for Divorce from Wife Battling Cancer

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Despite Red Sox pitcher John Lackey's wife's battle with cancer, divorce was recently filed, making a tough situation even more stressful for the couple. If you're getting divorced in Virginia, especially if one partner is dealing with a serious illness in Norfolk, a divorce attorney is the next person with whom you should speak.

Complications of Divorce in Virginia

A sudden and serious illness can affect a number of aspects of a person's life, which might affect the overall health of their marriage too:

intimacy - personal identity, fertility, and physical intimacy may be affected;
finances - medical bills and the loss of income that can come with a long-term illness can wreak havoc on a couple's financial stability; and
strain - the physical, emotional, and psychological effects of cancer can have an adverse effect on marital health, including each spouse's roles and responsibilities.

It's likely that for couples struggling with an illness such as cancer, divorce is attributed to a number of factors and martial problems, not just ill-health. John Lackey, who was already struggling with his career, filed for divorce on August 30, claiming, "The marriage has become insupportable because of discord or conflict of personalities."

For couples in which one spouse is battling long-term health problems and getting divorced in Norfolk, a divorce attorney can discuss some important factors that maybe weren't taken into consideration. Since health insurance and long-term care are essential in these divorce cases in Virginia, legal advice from a divorce attorney can be invaluable.

Getting a divorce in Norfolk? A Divorce Attorney Help

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Virginia Beach divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

What Kind of Attorney Should Handle My Virginia Military Divorce?

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Your Virginia military divorce differs in many ways from civilian divorce. If you or your husband served time in the armed forces and you are considering ending your marriage, you should speak to a Chesapeake divorce lawyer who understands military divorce law.

Many women going through divorce while serving or married to someone serving in the military find that they run into many difficulties during the divorce process.

Military divorcées have to deal with:

military benefits;
filing jurisdiction; and
delays that result from the military member's career obligations.

A Judge Advocate General (JAG) can't represent someone in court for a divorce case, and while they can give basic advice, they often can't offer much in the way of detailed guidance. You should seek the advice of your Chesapeake divorce lawyer.

Unfortunately, not all lawyers have experience handling cases that involve military couples. They may not be well versed in the state and federal laws involved or be sympathetic to the unique experience of getting divorced while in the military community.

It's important to have a knowledgeable, experienced divorce attorney on your side when you're facing a Virginia military divorce, so that he or she can address all the aspects of the process and help you get the best possible outcome.

Contacting a Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Free Military Divorce Book for Virginia Women Contemplating Divorce

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a woman facing the end of your marriage, knowledge is power. The free military divorce book from your Virginia Beach divorce attorney can help by giving you practical tips and information on many aspects of this legal process.

While life in the Armed Forces offers many benefits, it can also be quite challenging for a couple. Relationships can face major stressors like overseas deployment, long work hours, and trauma resulting from battle. Sometimes these difficulties can push a couple's relationship to the point where they feel divorce is the only answer.

Military divorce can be trickier than civilian divorce in many ways. This is because it's governed by both state and federal laws. There are issues like military housing, retired pay and other matters that fall under very specific government rules.

It's not always easy for military wives to find thorough, dependable legal advice when they're facing a divorce. The military's Judge Advocate General (JAG) can give general information, but many military spouses don't find the advice as complete as they would like it to be.

Getting your free military divorce book from our law firm will help you better understand the military divorce process. Your Virginia Beach divorce attorney has the tools necessary to face this challenging time in your life with confidence knowing that your case is in the hands of experienced professionals that know the law.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

5 Rules to Remember for Child Custody during Virginia Military Divorce

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're in the military and you're facing a Virginia child custody case, you should get acquainted with the rules and regulations involved. Our Free Virginia Military Divorce Book can help you learn more about the upcoming process.

Child Custody Case in Your Virginia Military Divorce

Divorce for military members differs in many ways from any other divorce, but the child custody aspect is very much the same:

The best interests of the child will be top priority. You and your attorney will need to provide the evidence that supports your case. Your free Virginia Military Divorce Book will provide you with more detailed information.
Don't try to alienate the children from their father. The courts take parental alienation behavior seriously, so try to be friendly and co-operative.
It's not about who is at "fault" in the divorce.Custody is meant to be for the good of the children.
Don't move out temporarily and leave the children with your husband if you are having trouble at home, unless you want the court to award him custody.
You should consider seeing a family therapist to help you with co-parenting after divorce if you and your spouse are having ongoing disagreements about discipline or other matters. The court will try not to favor one parenting style over another unless the parenting practices endanger the child in some way.

Throwing a Divorce Shower: A Therapeutic Virginia Divorce Trend

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Upon first hearing about a divorce party, it may seem somewhat odd or tasteless, but many women actually find that having closure can be therapeutic after their divorce. In Virginia, if you're going through a separation or divorce, you can contact a Virginia Beach divorce attorney who can guide you through each step of the process.

The emotional turmoil and stress that comes with divorce weighs heavily on almost everyone who goes through a divorce. And everyone deals with the impact of these changes in their own ways.

For many women, throwing a divorce shower can help put a positive spin on the transition, which can instill a sense of sisterhood among friends and help them feel like they're moving forward with their lives.

If you're thinking of hosting a divorce party, feel free to use your creativity and let your lighter, happier side shine.

You might consider:

planning a guest list that consists of divorced or happily separated women;
holding the party in a setting that's neither romantic (dark, cozy restaurants) nor terribly crowded (karaoke bars);
decorating in a humorous theme and keeping the atmosphere light; and
serving fun, tasty foods (it's OK to be indulgent sometimes).

Having a divorce shower may not be for everyone, but it can serve as a great way for women to pull themselves out of the doldrums and to mark their journey into a new, happier life.

If you are going through a divorce in Virginia and have questions specific to your case, you'll want to consult a Virginia Beach divorce attorney with experience helping women through this transitory time of their lives.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 1-757-425-5200.

Dangers of Non-Professional Advice for Your Separation in VA

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're going through a separation in VA, your friends and family will likely try to offer you divorce advice, oftentimes unsolicited. While their intentions may be good, you run the risk of making costly mistakes if you adhere to divorce advice from non-professionals instead of consulting with an experienced Norfolk divorce lawyer.

Divorce law is specialized and complex. Unless the advice comes from a divorce lawyer or certified divorce financial analyst, your friend might not fully understand the situation and could unintentionally give you bogus advice.

Think about it: you wouldn't take diet and nutrition advice from your auto mechanic, nor would you take financial investment advice from your restaurant server.

A divorce is no different. There are highly complicated areas of divorce law that non-professionals are likely not familiar.

An experienced attorney can teach you about:

pension divisions;
QDROs;
distribution laws; and
military divorce regulations like the USFSPA.

Each divorce is unique and what may have worked well for your friends or family won't necessarily apply to your case. Even if the advice you've received comes from a professional of sorts, if he or she isn't experienced in Virginia divorce law, it's generally wise to avoid blindly following the counsel.

It's far wiser and safer to take your case to a Norfolk divorce lawyer who knows all the fine print involved in divorces and can help you make informed decisions during your separation in VA.

Contacting a Norfolk Divorce Lawyer

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Norfolk divorce lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, helping you with divorce details, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Divorce Hotel: Couples Undergo Divorce Mediation in the Lap of Luxury

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

In the Netherlands, a new way to settle divorce is rising: the divorce hotel. It's a way for couples to end their marriage via mediation and in luxury. The trend hasn't yet spread to America, though, and those getting a divorce in Virginia will likely still need to speak to a Virginia divorce lawyer before finalizing their separation.

For some Dutch couples, settling a divorce in style at a luxury hotel of choice is actually now a possibility. With the aid of mediators, couples can spend three days at the hotel and settle their differences much more quickly than traditional methods.

Most of these divorce hotel experiences are sans attorneys but do have other professionals available to assist the mediation process, such as notaries and psychologists.

This 5-star divorce hotel experience may cost several thousand dollars but is typically cheaper than traditional or contested divorces. Currently, this practice is available only in the Netherlands but may begin in Germany soon. Will America be next?

This new luxury mediation option may help ease pain and simplify divorce for some couples, but naturally, it's not for everyone. If you're getting a divorce in Virginia, learning how world views on marriage are changing may help bring a larger and welcome perspective during this time of your life.

For couples in Virginia, a divorce lawyer will be an invaluable resource in helping things run smoothly and creating a workable plan that protects your best interests. It may not be a Dutch divorce hotel experience, but you'll certainly appreciate having a knowledgeable legal advocate on your side.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Lawyer

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 1-757-425-5200.

Broken Heart Divorce Rings: Latest Vogue Virginia Divorce Trend

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

It may seem impolite or outrageous to some, but divorce rings are now being marketed to people going through a divorce. If you're working with a Virginia Beach divorce attorney and getting divorced in Virginia, you might be fascinated to learn that divorce rings are the new divorce trend, marking couples' transition to single life.

Several jewelry dealers are now offering lavish gold divorce rings with a broken heart design and a diamond positioned in the center. As opposed to a wedding ring that symbolizes commitment, the divorce ring is a symbol of the severing of ties.

Some people may see the divorce ring as insensitive or extravagant, but it's akin to the divorce party and "divorcemoon" trend that many women find comforting.

If you're getting divorced in Virginia, you may find that having something to mark the beginning of your new life, such as divorce ring or a party, can be very instrumental and cathartic. It can also serve as a visual clue to friends about your new identity.

It's definitely not for everyone, though, and might even act as a painful reminder of your heartbreak.

It's a good idea to work through your emotional issues surrounding your divorce with a licensed therapist and devise a healthy plan for moving on with your new life. Speak to your Virginia Beach divorce attorney and ask for referrals to local counselors who can help you through this significant time.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Virginia Beach divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Avoiding 401(k) Division Mistakes When Getting Divorced in Virginia

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a couple decides to get divorced in Virginia, they oftentimes think they have all the major issues smoothed out, such as their 401(k) division. Unfortunately, due to simple errors, many couples wind up making huge retirement division mistakes, but consulting with a divorce attorney in Virginia Beach can help prevent these 401(k) mishaps.

Even in the cases where a couple agrees to divide the 401(k) assets fairly, matters can still go astray. Most mistakes are made during the settlement phase of divorce, specifically with the way the Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is handled.

The QDRO is the order that allows employers to pay retirement benefits to an employee's former spouse. If the wording isn't precise and crystal clear, the couple could wind up agreeing to a deal they don't completely understand, which may have disastrous results.

For example, if a couple agrees to split the husband's 401(k) down the middle, and the separation agreement only says that the wife gets $25,000 from the balance, that's exactly what she'll get, even if the 401(k) balance later goes down due to stock market fluctuations.

If that 401(k) suffered losses by payout time, the wife would still get her $25,000, and the husband would have to take the brunt of the financial loss.

These types of incidences happen all too frequently when couples get divorced in Virginia but can be avoided with careful planning and by hiring a professional to handle the important financial matters in the divorce. An attorney in Virginia Beach can help couples throughout Virginia with the entire divorce process.

Contacting a Divorce Attorney in Virginia Beach

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 1-757-425-5200.

A Virginia Beach divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

4 Rules to Follow When Texting Your Ex After Getting Divorced in Virginia

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 EST

Texting, albeit a quick and convenient form of communicating with someone, can actually wind up getting you into trouble after getting divorced in Virginia. If you're going through a divorce in Hampton, a divorce lawyer can explain how to use texting and email appropriately with your ex and how to avoid common texting catastrophes.

Texting your ex can be beneficial sometimes, such as when you need to give quick, factual information ("I'm right on schedule and will be there to pick up Lucy at 6:00) or when trying to filter out anger and other emotions that may cause unnecessary strain.

It's a good idea to set a few ground rules before hitting the "send" button on your next text to your ex, such as:

Don't send out messages too frequently so that you don't appear to be a bully or a pest;
Don't use a text message to discuss heated or sensitive issues when a face-to-face discussion would be more appropriate;
Don't use it to give bad or unpleasant news to your ex; and
Don't type anything that you wouldn't want a judge or your children to see.

Words really can cause harm, so it's prudent to be careful with how you use them. When getting divorced in Virginia, it's best to avoid doing or saying anything that could come back to hurt you or your children in the future.

If you're in the midst of a separation in Hampton, a divorce lawyer is a good resource not only for handling all the legalities, but also for helping you understand your rights and entitlements and alleviating some of your worries.

Contacting a Hampton Divorce Lawyer

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 1-757-425-5200.

If you're undergoing a marital separation in Hampton, a divorce lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

10 Steps to Prepare to File a for a Military Divorce in Virginia

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The military divorce process involves many steps and can be a bit confusing for someone not familiar with the laws. Our free Virginia military divorce guide can help you get acquainted with the legal aspects of ending your marriage.

Before you start the divorce process you can prepare by completing these 10 steps:

Consult an attorney. This should be done before you take any other steps.
Write a brief history of your marriage for your attorney, citing all vital information like the date of your marriage, birth dates of children, any prior separations, etc.
Gather all the documentation you need to show what you own and what you owe, including marital and separate property.
Create a list that includes the assets you'd like to keep and those you could let go. Consult a financial professional to determine your best options.
Transfer your share of any joint accounts into a separate account under your name.
Set aside some money to use during the beginning of your separation.
Pay bills and credit debt from money in joint accounts before you separate. That way you won't be saddled with them yourself afterward.
After separating, notify creditors that you'll no longer be liable for your spouse's debts.
Before separating, open a post office box in your name.
Look into various career options and begin to imagine your life after divorce. This can be a scary time, but it can also be a time of great opportunities.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Virginia Spousal Support Calculation Basics

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Divorce can bring many financial challenges for a woman. Virginia spousal support can help you make the transition from 2 incomes to 1 as you begin your new life as a single person. Your Newport News divorce attorney will work toward getting you a fair support settlement.

One of the most common questions about spousal support is, "how much will I get?" Understand that each case is unique and a Virginia family court will determine the amount of spousal support that's appropriate for your situation.

Virginia Spousal Support Guidelines

There are guidelines to help calculate Virginia spousal support, but there are often other factors that go into the judge's decisions:

age and health of the parties;
duration of the marriage;
monetary and non-monetary contributions of both parties;
earning capacity of both parties (including skills, education, and training);
property interests of the parties; and
as well as other factors.

If no child support is involved, the higher-paid spouse pays the recipient 30% of gross income minus 50% of the lower earning spouse's income. If child support is involved, the payer pays the recipient 28% of his gross income less 58% of the recipient's gross income.

If you're facing a divorce case and are concerned about spousal support, you should speak with a Newport News divorce attorney as soon as possible.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Don't Undersell Your Value During a Virginia Divorce

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're going through a divorce, you should be aware of the non-monetary contributions you made to your marriage. Referring to your attorney's free Virginia divorce booklet can help you put it all in order.

Listing non-monetary contributions can play a role in helping a family court judge decide on spousal support. This is especially important to women who have left the workforce to raise their children, and may have a difficult time finding work after the divorce.

Wives and mothers are some of the busiest people in the world. Whether or not they work outside the home, they perform a wide variety of jobs that are vitally important in the everyday scheme of life.

Some examples of non-monetary contributions that mothers do daily:

Cooking;
cleaning;
laundry;
repairs;
homework help;
driving the family to and from various appointments;
planning/organizing the schedule; and
moral/religious instruction.

These are only some of the many things you can list as your contributions to your marriage. Take your time and be thorough when making your list.

You may have been performing these tasks for years without ever really thinking much about them, but now is the time to give yourself some recognition. Your divorce will be a pivotal event in your life. You and your attorney should do whatever you can to make sure you're treated fairly. Your free Virginia divorce booklet can be a useful tool in helping you through this challenging time.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

The Timeline of Spousal Support in Virginia

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The spousal support in Virginia system is designed to help the lower-earning spouse make ends meet following the divorce. Divorce is a financially difficult time for many people, but your Norfolk divorce attorney will work toward getting you the best outcome possible.

It is especially important for women who made the decisions to stay home and raise their children rather than pursuing careers, because it can be difficult to find work after having been out of the work force for some time.

Factors that can Affect Virginia Spousal Support

Many of the same factors that affect the amount of support will also affect how long you'll receive Virginia spousal support:

duration of the marriage;
monetary and non-monetary contributions both parties made to the marriage;
age of the parties;
physical and mental health of the parties;
both parties' earning capacity; and
many other factors.

Based on the details of the case, a family court judge might issue a lump sum payment or periodic payments. Rehabilitative support is another option or the judge may even grant you the right to ask for support at a future time.

Consult a Norfolk divorce attorney to find out how the guidelines surrounding spousal support will affect your particular case.

Contacting a Norfolk Divorce Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

How In-Home Virginia Separation Happens & How to Make it a Success

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In-home separation is one of the options when getting a Virginia divorce. In this type of separation in Virginia, you and your ex live under the same roof, but you live "separately" rather than as a couple.

Why would couples choose in-home separation?

It's not always possible to make the move to separate locations, but the couple still wants to set the wheels of divorce in motion by initiating your separation in Virginia. Money issues may play a role in a couple's choice to share a house during their separation.

Maintaining 2 households can be expensive, especially during the financially challenging time of divorce. Family matters, such as a child's education, may also be a reason for both parents to feel the need to remain under the same roof.

What makes in-home separation successful?

If you and your spouse choose an in-home separation when getting divorced in Virginia, you'll need to follow a strict set of guidelines.

The list is a long one, but in general it includes you and your spouse:

avoiding physical intimacy with each other;
keeping your food separate;
different bank accounts;
starting different, separate, social lives; and
telling friends, family and close acquaintances that you're separated.

You and your spouse can work through the details of your divorce by getting your decisions in writing in a separation agreement and seeking help from a Norfolk divorce attorney.

Contacting a Norfolk Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Starting New After a Painful or Messy Divorce in Virginia

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're getting a divorce in Virginia, you already know that ending your marriage can be a painful, messy event. Despite the difficult feelings between you and your ex, and your own anxiety about the future, there's life after divorce.

Divorce can hit you hard emotionally. You'll likely go through the stages of grief. You might also be dealing with regrets, negative self-talk, and other issues. It's best to address these feelings as soon as possible. You can address these issues with the support of friends and family or with the help of a licensed therapist.

Financial matters can be a major source of stress during and after your divorce in Virginia. You may also be returning to work for the first time in a while. If this is the case, you should focus on the positive aspects of starting a new career. Learn the secrets to creating an effective resume and market your skills and talents with confidence.

Socially, you may be dealing with tense relations between you and your friends and family, particularly if your divorce was messy and the people close to you took sides. You'll also be looking at starting a new post-divorce co-parent relationship with your ex.

Life after divorce may not be easy, but with the right support and learning resources, and of course the right Virginia divorce attorney to assist in your legal needs, you can face your future with courage.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

How Will the Judge View Your In-Home Separation in Virginia? Not Well

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In-home separation in Virginia might be an option for some divorcing couples but it's not a choice that's recommended in most cases. It's not something that most family court judges view favorably and a divorcing couple should be aware of the guidelines and drawbacks involved.

A traditional separation is when partners move into separate living quarters and begin to prepare for single life as they work out the conditions of their divorce. Things are a lot trickier when the separated couple is living under the same roof and this blurry line between "together" and "apart" is the primary reason that judges, in general, view in-home separation in an unfavorable light.

Dealing with In-Home Separation in Virginia

If it turns out that in-home separation is an option for a couple, there are some very specific guidelines they will need to follow:

make sure that friends, family and associates know you are no longer a couple;
maintain separate bank accounts;
have their own telephones for personal and business use;
avoid sexual intimacy with each other;
manage their own respective living areas;
cease sharing meals together, except for on holidays and children's birthdays; and
have an objective third party occasionally visit to observe your living arrangements to confirm you're living separately.

It's clear that in-home separation in Virginia isn't for everyone. You should seek the advice of your Virginia Beach divorce attorney to decide whether it's an option for you.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

3 Tips for Preparing Your Virginia Separation Agreement

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a Virginia divorce, the couple needs to work out the details of their separation. A separation agreement is the most common way to record the decisions made about the important matters involved in dissolving a marriage. A Chesapeake divorce attorney can help you create one.

It's not always easy resolving the complicated issues of child custody, division of property, spousal support and other matters that need to be addressed when a marriage is ending. Having your decisions on paper is going to be part of your divorce, whether the decisions are made by a Virginia divorce court or by the divorcing partners themselves.

3 Helpful Tips For A Virginia Separation Agreement

When it comes to negotiating a separation agreement, one partner can present the other partner with a written offer detailing their desired terms for the separation. The other spouse may or may not accept the offer as is. If not, the couple can continue negotiating with each other until an agreement can be reached.
Try to keep your expectations realistic. Giving ultimatums or refusing to consider reasonable offers will only harm your chances of coming to an acceptable resolution.
Divorce mediation can be helpful when a couple is facing these kinds of negotiations. It can make it easier for the couple to communicate in a productive way, and for them to find creative solutions to their problems.

You'll probably have many questions about separation agreements. Speak with your Chesapeake divorce attorney for more information.

Contacting a Chesapeake Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Tips on How to Approach Parenting After a Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

When a marriage breaks down, it's natural to be concerned about how the new situation will affect your children. When you're going through a divorce in Virginia, especially when you're trying to work through child custody in Virginia, being a proactive parent and making a concerted effort to meet your children's needs is vital to their well-being.

Divorces can drain emotions and bring out the worst in people if they're not mindful. But you have the choice to not allow any negativity between you and your ex-husband to interfere with your parenting.

As you're working through your divorce and getting used to your new life, you might wonder how to approach parenting. The key to raising well-adjusted, happy children is a loving, secure environment. This fact never changes, even after your divorce in Virginia.

Your focus should be on providing a stable, positive environment for your children:

avoid blaming the children or using them for your own social support;
don't express anger or bitterness toward the other parent in your children's presence;
encourage a relationship between your children and the other parent; and
try to create a stable, loving home, being attentive to your children's needs and concerns.

Divorce is hard on everyone involved, especially when you're dealing with child support in Virginia. However, concentrating on being an attentive parent and creating new, healthy family dynamics will set you and your children on the right path to a happier future.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional and financial turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

On the Bright Side: 3 Ways a Separation in Virginia Improves Your Life

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many people suffer through a marriage that no longer works for them for the "sake of the children." What they don't realize, though, is that there is a positive side to getting a separation in Virginia. If you're considering a divorce, divorce attorneys in Virginia can address your concerns and help develop a separation agreement and parenting plan.

A separation may improve your life and your relationship with your children by:

Making happier parents. Without the pressing weight of an irreconcilable marriage, you and your spouse become happier individuals, and this translates into a happier, more secure environment for your children.
Allowing for time alone. A separation and a parenting plan that allows for short periods of time without your children can give you much-needed time alone to recharge your batteries and come back a better, more adjusted parent.
Create attentive parenting. When you spend a little time away from your children, you naturally begin to cherish the time you spend with them, making those moments together count.

If your marriage is past the point of reconciliation, getting a separation can improve your overall well-being and help put you on the path to wholeness. Happier parents equal happier children, a good mantra to keep in mind if you're concerned about how a separation in Virginia will affect your family.

If you feel like you're ready to take the next step in getting a separation, you'll want to contact divorce attorneys in Virginia to begin discussing your options.

Contacting Divorce Attorneys in Virginia

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The divorce attorneys in Virginia at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Dividing Military & Federal Government Benefits After Divorce in Virginia

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

Under the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA), each state is allowed to divide military and federal government benefits between spouses after a divorce in Virginia. If you're facing divorce, especially a military divorce involving complicated fine print, you'll want to speak with a divorce lawyer in Virginia Beach about any benefits you may be entitled.

Based on the USFSPA, military and government benefits can be issued as marital property in a military divorce in Virginia. How the benefits are distributed is unique to each case, and is something which will be stipulated in your separation agreement or court order.

Military Benefits You May be Eligible for After Your Virginia Divorce

There are multiple benefits to which you may be entitled:

retirement pay;
survivor benefits;
health care benefits; and
commissary and exchange benefits.

You should understand that the division of military or government benefits is not automatic, nor is it government-mandated. The USFSPA simply allows the states to treat certain military benefits as they would any civilian benefits in a divorce settlement.

Since military divorces are more complex than civilian divorces, you'll want to enlist in the help of a divorce lawyer in Virginia Beach to make sure you don't miss out on the benefits for which you might be eligible.

Contacting a Woman Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A woman divorce lawyer in Virginia Beach at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will be committed to fighting for your rights, helping you with military divorce in Virginia Beach, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Getting Important Info to Your Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

The Virginia divorce process includes a portion called the interrogatories, in which your Chesapeake divorce attorney will be asking your husband a battery of questions related to the family finances and assets, and to matters that are pertinent to your child custody case. You will also be asked a set of questions and be expected to produce documentation.

These questions can be very detailed, but this type of information gathering is necessary in order for the attorney to build the divorce case and help make sure that you get a fair and equitable settlement and a child custody decision that is in the best interests of your children.

For example, to properly gather information, the attorney may ask for information about:

401(k) plans;
Stocks;
profit sharing; and
other financial plans.

They will need all the vital information about these accounts and the documentation for them. Regarding child custody, there may be questions about parental fitness and whether one parent has any documented proof to support their claims that the other parent isn't fit to have custody.

Divorce requires a large amount of paperwork, so it's best to have a system that helps you keep everything organized. 3-ring binders, labeled folders and the like will be a great help to you during this time. It's essential that you cooperate with your Chesapeake divorce attorney so that your case goes as smoothly as possible.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

How a Collaborative Divorce in Virginia Beach May Benefit You

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're contemplating a divorce in Virginia Beach, and still have open communication with your spouse, a collaborative divorce may be the right option for you. Working with a Virginia Beach collaborative divorce firm and developing an agreement that takes everyone's needs into consideration is one of the healthiest, least painful ways to handle a divorce.

During a collaborative divorce, a team of professionals work together to devise an agreement that takes a lot of areas into consideration, including:

emotional needs;
financial situations and future financial needs;
children's needs and parenting plans; and
parental communication skills.

Collaborative divorces don't drag the family through the court system, and are generally quicker and less expensive with a much more positive outcome than a contested divorce. In addition to your lawyer and your spouse's lawyer, you'll have a team of professionals ready to help everyone reach a workable plan.

Some members that will be a part of your Virginia Beach collaborative divorce firm team include:

divorce coaches;
children's mental health specialist;
a financial specialist; and
a case manager.

Collaborative divorces aren't for every couple, though. You should speak to an attorney about your divorce in Virginia Beach to make sure it's the right choice for you.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Collaborative Divorce Firm

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The attorneys at the Virginia Beach collaborative divorce firm Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, helping you with collaborative divorce in Virginia Beach, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

3 Ways Your Virginia Divorce Can Impact Your Credit Score

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're considering a Virginia divorce, be aware that both you and your spouse are responsible for any mutual financial accounts and debts. No matter what your specific situation, you'll want to assess your financial situation and contact a Chesapeake divorce lawyer to protect your finances and your credit score.

A Virginia divorce can leave a lasting, negative imprint on your credit score. Even before you go through the divorce process, you'll want to take steps to protect your financial future with which a Chesapeake divorce lawyer can help.

Without precautionary, proactive measures, divorces can negatively impact your credit with:

Unpaid bills - creditors will hold both spouses responsible for debt and will actively pursue their due payments. They will quickly report outstanding credit card debt or car payments to the credit bureau.
Foreclosure - if you inadvertently remain on the mortgage deed after giving the house to your spouse, it may result in a mark on your credit report if your spouse later lets the house go to foreclosure.
Unknown responsibilities - if you don't familiarize yourself with all your accounts and debts, and sever all financial ties with your spouse, you'll be held liable for his future financial actions, which could wind up hurting your credit score.

The best thing you can do is try to become completely knowledgeable about your and your spouse's financial status and responsibilities before your Virginia divorce, and to separate yourself financially from him.

Contacting a Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances, including questions about your financial responsibilities and credit score. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

A Chesapeake divorce Lawyer in Virginia at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will commit to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

3 Things to Straighten Out Before Calling a Norfolk Divorce Attorney

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you are currently considering a divorce in Virginia, there are a few things you should do before you and your spouse begin divorce discussions or divorce proceedings. After you have completed these things, speak with a Norfolk divorce attorney, who can help you with the process.

Speak with a marriage counselor who may be able to provide insight on resolving your marital differences. Even if you think the marriage is lost, divorce counseling might help you determine what went wrong and how to move forward.
Do not move out of your marital home until after proceedings have begun, as this may adversely impact your ability to collect alimony, or you may be unable to return to the house until after the courts have divided property.
Safeguard your assets before the divorce process begins, including those that you want to use, such as furniture or vehicles, and those that might be liquidated.

If you are considering getting a divorce in Virginia, remember before you speak with a Norfolk divorce attorney to prepare yourself for the divorce proceedings by following these 3 simple recommendations. You will be able to begin your new life with more ease if you have made preparations for the process.

Contacting a Norfolk Divorce Attorney

Our Norfolk divorce attorney team cares about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about getting a divorce in Virginia, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

3 Myths about Male Children of a Virginia Divorce

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're going through a Virginia divorce, you can take steps to help your child adjust to this difficult time healthy ways. If you have a son, you know that there are unique joys and challenges involved in raising a boy. Boys also react differently to life changes once they become children of divorce.

The following are some common myths about male children of divorce:

Myth 1: If your child is upset, he'll let you know. Reality: Many times, male children express feelings in different ways than girls. You may need to work hard to get your son to open up to you, and be sensitive to any behavioral cues that hint at his feelings.
Myth 2: Boys don't cry. Reality: If your son is more like the strong silent type mentioned above, it may seem that this isn't a myth at all; however, not all boys hold in their feelings, and they shouldn't be made to feel bad for expressing their grief.
Myth 3: Male children of divorce will go on to have relationship problems as adults. Reality: This is one of the most troubling myths about kids and divorce, and it sparks guilt in many parents. It's true that boys can suffer some set backs due to the loss of a father figure from the home, but a University of Michigan study shows that children of divorce are just as likely to have happy, fulfilling relationships.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Family Mediation May be a Good Choice During Your Virginia Divorce

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many couples who've decided to get a Virginia divorce may still be able to work together and come up with solutions without going through a painful litigation process in court. After going over your situation with a Virginia divorce and child custody lawyer, you might consider family mediation as a viable option.

Mediation is a process where both spouses retain their attorneys but work with a third-party mediator. The goal is to help parents come to a mutual agreement on big issues for the sake of the children.

Benefits of Family Mediation in Virginia Divorce

prevents difficult court battles;
helps both parties better understand the issues at hand;
reduces the pain and struggle for both spouses and the children; and
protects the children from getting caught in the crosshairs.

When a couple gets divorced in Virginia, emotional struggle is a natural part of the equation. It's wise to take a step back and try to work together to ease the hurt and avoid prolonging the pain, especially if children are involved. Family mediation services can help couples achieve this.

If you think family mediation may be an option, discuss your divorce with a Virginia divorce and child custody lawyer who can guide you and work with you throughout a collaborative divorce.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances, many of which can be handled in family mediation. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.he Virginia divorce and child custody attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

What to Do When a Friend Picks Sides in Your Virginia Divorce

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your marriage ends in Virginia divorce, you're not just losing your husband; you may also be losing important people in your social circle. While ideally a friend (particularly if they were a friend of both spouses) will remain neutral in the divorce, this is usually not the case. It's natural to pick sides and form opinions the divorcing couple's reasons and motives for divorce.

Dealing with Friends Picking Sides in Your Virginia Divorce

If you're feeling the social repercussions of Virginia divorce and it's adding to the overall stress of the experience, there are some things you can do:

It's not uncommon for women to lose themselves in their identity as wife and mother during a divorce. You can use this time of social upheaval to get more in touch with yourself and learn to be self-sufficient again.
Everyone craves interaction and emotional support, especially during a rough time in life. You should surround yourself with the people who love you and have shown themselves loyal to you.
If you have children you should try, if possible, to salvage the relationships that benefit them the most. If necessary, seek guidance from a professional counselor to help you sort through your feelings and create a positive plan for the future.

Who is the Guardian ad Litem in Your Child Custody Case in Virginia?

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a Virginia child custody case, children may be caught in a tug-of-war between their parents. To ensure the best outcome for the child, a Virginia court might appoint a guardian ad litem. This person will be different than the Virginia child custody attorney that you have hired but you will all be working toward the same goal.

A guardian ad litem is an attorney who represents the child's best interests during the course of the case. The guardian reports their findings to the court. A guardian ad litem is always appointed in cases in which child abuse or neglect is an issue, but the court can also appoint one in cases where abuse is not a factor.

While this professional's job is to advocate for your child, that doesn't mean that he or she will always make suggestions based on what the child wants. Rather, the suggestions will be based according to the child's best interests.

Your interaction with your child's guardian ad litem is important. He or she will be watching and evaluating you, your lifestyle, and the way you relate to your child. Also keep in mind that while your attorney must keep your conversations in confidence under attorney-client privilege, a guardian ad litem is under no such obligation to you.

You should not underestimate the power the guardian ad litem has in your Virginia child custody case. The observations he or she makes can have a major effect on the outcome of your case.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

4 Ways to Prepare for a Divorce in Virginia

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Divorce in Virginia can turn your world upside down. While ending your marriage won't be easy, you may find the experience more tolerable by preparing for it with a Virginia divorce attorney.

4 Steps in Preparation Toward Divorce in Virginia

To best prepare yourself for the upcoming life changes, check to make sure you:

Know what you own....and what you owe. Make a list of all your assets and gather the necessary documents such as paperwork for your mortgage, insurance, and taxes. Get a credit report to find out what you owe, both jointly and separately.
Make an effort to establish your own credit to be ready for life on your own. You and your husband probably have joint credit cards and bank accounts you'll need to untangle during your divorce in Virginia.
Surround yourself with friends. Preparing for divorce isn't all about financial paperwork; there's a lot of emotional work to do when you're facing divorce in Virginia. Many women define themselves based on their role in the home, and the prospect of being single again can be daunting. Be sure you have a strong support system of friends and/or a professional counselor to comfort you.
Be ready for a fight. This doesn't mean being angry and bitter; it simply means that you should be ready to stand up for what you need in your divorce in Virginia. It's best to have an experienced Virginia divorce attorney on your side to help make sure that you're being treated fairly.

request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia

reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Rights for a Stepparent Adoption in Virginia

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Your family has come a long way and now you are ready to take the next step: stepparent adoption. A stepparent adoption can be one of the most positive and enjoyable cases a Virginia family law attorney can undertake. The road to adopting a stepchild begins when you put in your adoption paperwork. Your Virginia family law attorney will help you with all the details.

Stepparent adoption helps build families by giving stepparents the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents. Children who are legally adopted can benefit socially and financially being in a 2-parent family.

Before you start the process, you need to consider whether there will be any issues regarding parental consent. Both biological parents, if alive and still possessing parental rights, need to agree to the adoption. This means that if your spouse wants to adopt your child, your child's biological father will have to agree.

There may be cases where the absent biological parent has abandoned the child, or where the parent may be hard to track down. Home studies may be required by the judge too. Your Virginia family law attorney will help you navigate through any complications that might arise in your adoption case.

Contacting a Virginia Family Law Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Mind Your Ps and Qs: Your Behavior in Virginia Child Custody Court

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Virginia child custody can be a very emotional topic. It's important to remember some simple tips on how to behave in court so that you can give yourself the chance at a positive outcome. Your Virginia divorce attorney will be doing most of the talking but you need to project a tolerant, respectful countenance.

First, consider your appearance. While this may seem like a superficial thing to think about during such a difficult time, it can have an impact on your case. No matter what your daily personal style happens to be, your best bet for court is an understated, feminine, conservative look. A knee length skirt and a blouse in a pastel color, for example.

Next you'll want to focus on how to behave in court. "Respect" is the key word to keep in mind whenever you're before a judge. It is the same goes for the guardian ad litem, custody evaluator, and any other professionals involved.

This is no doubt a trying time in your life, and being under stress can give you a short fuse. It may be especially hard to maintain your composure if you feel that your ex and his legal team are misrepresenting you.

However, in Virginia divorce court you should never:

interrupt anyone speaking (you will be given a chance to speak);
argue with anyone there (only state the facts as they pertain to you); and
display disrespectful body language (avoid crossing your arms, making faces, or tapping your toe).

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

3 Things to Know About Collaborative Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Virginia divorce is a legal procedure and emotional event that involves all areas of your life. Some people find that something as multi-faceted as divorce is best handled in a way that addresses specific areas of concern. For them, a Virginia collaborative divorce facilitated by a Virginia divorce attorney might be a good option.

Collaborative divorce involves a team of professionals who meet with the divorcing spouses to work out the details of their separation.

The collaborative divorce team generally consists of:

a divorce lawyer for each spouse;
a divorce coach for each spouse;
a financial specialist; and
a child specialist.

This group of qualified professionals is designed to address all the areas that might cause conflict between couples as they go their separate ways.

Traditional courtroom divorce in Virginia is an adversarial process, meaning that the partners are expected to oppose each other at every step of the way. When a couple decides to approach their divorce in a collaborative way, they agree to cooperate and work with the divorce team toward mutually agreeable solutions.

Alternative litigation doesn't work for everyone, so it's wise to evaluate your situation and speak with a Virginia divorce attorney to determine the best way to go with your Virginia divorce. The alternative litigation route is best for partners who are still on good terms and who are willing to compromise in some areas.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

While we know that a collaborative divorce can't eliminate the pain associated with the dissolution of a marriage, the Virginia women's divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee want to help you to achieve a peaceful and successful resolution that will enable you and your children to move on with your lives and look ahead to the future.

Learn more about collaborative divorce and get closer to starting your new life with peace of mind - request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

VA Beach Divorce Attorney Understands Overseas Service and Divorce

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Military service, particularly overseas service, which takes soldiers to far-off destinations for prolonged periods of time, can wreak havoc on marriage. If you are considering a military divorce in Virginia, contact a Virginia Beach divorce attorney to discuss your options in pursuing a military divorce to see if doing so is the best option for you and your future.

It is difficult to balance the commitments of family and the obligations of a military career. The responsibilities of each can have an impact on the satisfaction with the other.

Factors That Can Lead to a Military Divorce in Virginia

The divorce rate for military couples has historically been significantly higher than the average divorce rate. High divorce rates for soldiers has been cited and even studied by the government following large-scale military operations as far back as the Civil War.

Struggles that military couples often face include the following:

men and women in the service are often required to move frequently;
military couples are forced to spend extended periods of time separated from one another; and
combat service members may suffer psychological consequences such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

If you are considering a military divorce in Virginia, it's important for you to realize that you are not alone.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia Beach divorce attorney team cares about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about a military divorce in Virginia, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

What the Heck is "Recrimination" in a Virginia Divorce?

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

Recrimination is a legal term in Virginia divorce law that describes an instance in which both you and your spouse accuse one another of similar or identical transgressions. For example, if you accuse your husband of adultery and he replies by accusing you of the same, that is recrimination. A Newport News divorce attorney can assist you with arguing against these accusations.

How Recrimination Impacts a Virginia Divorce

Divorces are usually based on fault, so when 1 spouse files for divorce against the other, he or she is alleging that some wrongdoing occurred on the part of the other that necessitated the divorce. If you and your ex are parting on unhappy terms, the possibility of recrimination increases.

Recrimination is a defense against the "fault" grounds of a divorce. In certain instances, recrimination can prevent a spouse from successfully obtaining a divorce from the other. While some states have eliminated recrimination as a defense against divorce, Virginia has not.

Recrimination is not advised as a line of argument because of the complicating effect it has on divorce proceedings. You should speak with a Newport News divorce attorney before you make up your mind on whether to proceed with, or how to react to, recrimination in your Virginia divorce proceedings.

Contacting a Newport News Divorce Attorney

Our Newport News divorce attorney team cares about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about a Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Getting Rid of Your Ex's Last Name after a Divorce in Virginia

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 08:00:00 EST

After a divorce in Virginia, you may want to remove your ex-husband's last name from your own. This practice is common, and while you may be hesitant to do so, there are a number of reasons to make the final transition towards your new life. A Virginia Beach divorce attorney may be able to further guide you through the processes after your divorce.

Steps to Change Your Name after Divorce in Virginia

The first thing you should do in order to affect your legal name change following a divorce is determine to what you will change your name. It's common to take back your maiden name, in which case, you should notify your Virginia Beach divorce attorney so that he or she can indicate both names on your official divorce decree.

Once you've obtained your decree, you must notify the Social Security Administration to get a new Social Security card. You'll be required to supply your divorce decree, a proof of identity, and separate proof of U.S. citizenship.

After you receive your new Social Security card, the next step is to notify the Department of Motor Vehicles. You'll need your Social Security card, your divorce decree, and your driver's license.

After these steps, the remaining notifications are significantly simpler, notify your:

bank;
employers;
any mortgage or car lenders;
insurance providers;
credit cards;
investment accounts; and
doctors.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia Beach divorce attorney team cares about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about a divorce in Virginia, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When a Virginia Divorce "Spreads" in a Social Circle

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're considering a Virginia divorce, you might want to ask yourself how many of your friends and family have used a Virginia divorce attorney to "untie the knot". The effects of divorce go beyond you and your spouse. It can affect the people in your social circle.

Studies by social scientists from Harvard and other well-known universities have found that couples that have friends and family who are divorced are at a greater risk for having their own marriages end. This study supports the concept of divorce as something that can spread through a group of friends and family much like a virus.

When a couple decides to call it quits, other couples around them might begin to have doubts about their own relationships. This is especially true if the first divorcing couple's relationship had been considered strong.

Nobody wants to be the first in their group to divorce, and some couples might hold on, whether consciously or unconsciously, for the sake of appearances. A couple's Virginia divorce can make their friends and family who have been having marital problems feel that divorce is a more acceptable option.

These studies have also shown an interesting, more optimistic fact about the social effects of divorce. Couples who support their friends and loved ones through divorce actually end up strengthening their own marriages.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Young Couples Seeking a Virginia Divorce

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

When people think of a marriage on the rocks, they often imagine a middle-aged couple that has been together for years. In reality, young couples file for Virginia divorce just as often as anyone else, and their relationship problems can lead to separation.

Ending a marriage at a young age can be difficult in many ways. Young divorcees may find themselves feeling alienated from their group of friends, many of whom may be planning weddings or in the honeymoon stages of their relationships. Being a divorcee can also be a concern for people as they start dating after divorce.

While all these social challenges are real, young people considering Virginia divorce face the same legal realities as people of any age. If you find yourself in this situation, you should seek the counsel of a Virginia divorce attorney. Your attorney can help you understand the process of Virginia divorce and separation. You can also find out how a separation agreement may benefit you.

A separation agreement is a contract between you and your spouse that details the conditions of your separation. It's a very important document to have if you have children or shared property with your spouse.

While Virginia separation can be emotionally difficult for a young couple, there is help and guidance available that can make it easier to get through it and survive your life after divorce.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Young couples seeking Virginia divorce will have the same needs as those who have been married longer and would benefit from the services of an experienced Virginia divorce attorney.

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Saying Goodbye to Anger After Your Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

During your Virginia divorce, you may find you have a difficult time managing anger. Anger can sometimes be hard to handle and you may find that it stays around for much longer than you would like. If you hire an experienced Virginia divorce attorney they will be familiar with this situation and can direct you as to how to overcome your problem.

It's understandable that you would feel angry following a divorce. Many times, a divorce happens because the trust between the couple has been irreparably broken due to negative events and behaviors. It's normal to be hurt and angry when someone has wronged you and the future isn't turning out as planned.

Anger is natural and can even feel good during the early stages of your Virginia divorce. It can be a defense mechanism against the pain and anxiety you're experiencing during this difficult time; however, anger can turn to bitterness and affect your life and relationships.

Managing anger is an important part of rebuilding your life after a divorce. Being friends with your ex isn't always possible, but you should try and be on polite terms, especially if you have children together.

Some women may find that professional counseling helps them get past persistent feelings of anger, jealousy and bitterness following divorce. Having supportive friends and family to vent to can also be a big part of the emotional recovery process.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Getting Divorced in Virginia: Common Reasons for Marital Breakdown

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Women who are getting divorced in Virginia are often looking for answers. They look for legal answers to help them determine their best course of action when it comes to peacefully ending their marriage and protecting their children and property.

They may also examine their relationship to seek answers about why their marriage ended in the first place. While each couple is unique and faces their own set of problems, there are some basic reasons why marital breakdown occurs.

Most couples have specific things they can point to that led to them getting divorced in Virginia, whether it was a major event like an affair, ongoing disagreements over finances, or other issues.

While certain events can definitely pack a punch, the basis for marital breakdown is usually something much more subtle. It's known as "turning", and it happens when, for a variety of reasons, the partners in a relationship begin to turn from each other and seek fulfillment outside of the marriage.

They may begin by feeling disillusioned with each other. In time, this feeling gives way to arguing, which can freeze into detached silence. By this time divorce may very well be their only option.

Marital breakdown isn't always the fault of one spouse or the other, but when you're getting divorced in Virginia, you need to look out for your own best interests and those of your children.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When Complications Arise With Division of Property in Virginia Divorce

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Division of property isn't always an emotionally easy part of Virginia divorce. Many people are attached to certain items and feel bad about having to let them go to their ex. Sometimes legal matters, not emotional matters, complicate the division of property.

Many people think of dividing assets as splitting them straight down the middle, but it's not always that simple. While Virginia law dictates that assets should be divided in a fair and equitable fashion, some cases require more thought on how this is to be accomplished.

For example, one of the partners bought a home during the marriage, but used proceeds from the sale of a home that was acquired prior to the marriage. Normally, anything bought while the couple was married is considered marital property, but in this case it was purchased with funds from the sale of the real estate that was owned prior to the marriage, which would be separate property.

It can also be difficult to put a value on some items like businesses, medical practices, works of art and other things. Your Virginia divorce attorney may need to sort through complicated cases by bringing in other professionals like appraisers and forensic accountants.

If you're facing a divorce, in which you may run into complications with dividing assets, you should speak with an experienced divorce lawyer as soon as possible.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When One Party Wants a Virginia Divorce and the Other Doesn't

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Partners aren't always on the same page when it comes to seeking a Virginia divorce. Sometimes, one partner may want to leave the marriage while the other wants to try to work things out. In these cases, deciding on divorce is painful for everyone involved.

Adultery is a common scenario that often leads to one partner deciding on divorce, while the other isn't as sure. The unfaithful partner might choose to leave, to start a new life with his or her lover, or the partner, who's been cheated on might feel unable to remain in a marriage after the trust has been shattered.

A major event like a death in the family or a financial crisis can affect an individual's outlook on life and their ability to fulfill their duties as a spouse. One partner's major change in religious or political conviction can also shake up the balance in the marriage and drive a couple apart.

Whatever the reasons you or your spouse chose to seek a Virginia divorce, you will need good legal counsel. If you're the partner who wanted to keep the relationship alive, you might feel shocked, confused, and upset when you're served with the divorce papers. Still, it's important for you to have a Virginia divorce attorney of your own to help you get a fair settlement, negotiate child custody and move on with your life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Want to Avoid Virginia Divorce? "Love Expert" Warns Against Marriage Altogether

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're facing divorce in Virginia, you might be looking back at the history of your relationship, wondering what went wrong. There are many reasons for divorce, but one relationship expert says that avoiding marriage, at least for a time, might be the best way to create your own "happily ever after".

Dr. Neil Clark Warren, founder of the matchmaking website e-harmony, knows enough about relationships to know that they take time, work, and patience. He says that to avoid a painful divorce, people need to give plenty of thought to practical matters before popping the question.

When you meet someone you find attractive and exciting, it can be quite a thrill. Unfortunately, attraction doesn't always mean love. The chemistry might be good, but the relationship may not have the basic compatibility necessary to create a lasting bond.

Too many couples get wrapped up in the romance and drama of their love, and begin planning for marriage way earlier in the relationship than they should. As a result they begin their married life unprepared, and once the honeymoon phase is over, disillusionment sets in.

Many common reasons for divorce could be avoided if couples set marriage aside until they're emotionally and financially prepared to commit.

If you're already considering divorce, all is not lost. You can't turn back time but you do still have options, like choosing an experienced Virginia divorce attorney who can make a real difference in your divorce and future.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Custody Evaluators Unfamiliar with Issues of Domestic Abuse

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

A custody evaluator is a qualified person who analyzes parents involved in Virginia child custody cases. These evaluators can be very useful when courts are determining the best interests of the child, but they may not always know how to address domestic abuse issues.

Domestic violence can be a difficult thing to evaluate and measure, because there are different types of abuse dynamics. For example, violence may be situational, happening as a result of the offender being under an unusual amount of stress at a given time, or it can be an ongoing form of terrorism.

When making decisions about the best custody arrangement, the evaluator needs to determine the type and severity of the abuse that has been in play in a particular family and then make a suggestion regarding what type of parenting plan would be safest and most practical for the children.

Some evaluators may have a hard time differentiating between the types of domestic abuse, and may at times underestimate the severity of the abuse situation. This misunderstanding is usually the result of insufficient training and education.

It's important for custody evaluators to possess up-to date knowledge about domestic abuse, so that they can make responsible decisions and serve the needs of children in Virginia child custody cases.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

4 Ways to Avoid Ruining Virginia Child Custody Case on Facebook

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a Virginia child custody case, the court needs to determine the living arrangement that's in the best interests of the child. Sometimes, information on a parent's social networking page can affect their image in court. A Virginia child custody attorney is on your side in court and can counsel you on how to manage your online presence.

Unfortunately, your ex's attorneys can use this information against you during you Virginia child custody case. They'll be looking for things that can make you look like the less competent parent.

Steps to Protect Against Having Your Social Media Page Used Against You in Court:

Keep your settings private. Sites like Facebook will not do this automatically; you have to go into your settings and do it yourself.
Avoid angry posts. It's understandable that during your divorce you will feel upset with your ex, but it's best to avoid lashing out against him in your status updates. That kind of ranting will make you look bitter and vengeful.
Beware of your "friends". Don't accept friend requests from strangers and don't assume that just because someone is your friend, that they won't report your personal info to anyone.
A picture is worth 1000 words. What do your Facebook photos say? Take a good look through them to determine whether they show you in a positive light. If not, it is best to delete them.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

4 Things to Expect in a Virginia Divorce Court

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're considering ending your marriage, you should seek the guidance of a divorce attorney in Virginia Beach and become familiar with the Virginia divorce process, including what to expect in divorce court.

Nervousness - Many people are nervous about going to divorce court. The Virginia divorce process can seem complicated and can cause some stress. Fortunately, you don't have to face this challenging time alone; you should seek a divorce attorney in Virginia Beach who can help guide you through your divorce.
Legalities - One of the most important things to remember about divorce is that everything goes forward according to legal procedure. There's plenty of paperwork that needs to be filed with the court, and documentation to hand to your attorney. Try keeping it all in order
Behavior - When you're in the courtroom, you're expected to remain in order and be respectful to the judge. It's unwise to try to argue with the judge, with your ex, or with his attorney.
Fairness - A tough, no-nonsense judge isn't necessarily a "mean" or unfair judge. As long as you present yourself well and cooperate with the process, there's no reason to believe you're in trouble.

If you understand the basics of the legal procedure, and follow the advice of your divorce attorney in Virginia Beach, you'll have a better chance of having a positive experience in divorce court and with your divorce in general.

Contacting a Divorce Attorney in Virginia Beach

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A divorce attorney in Virginia Beach at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

What to Do When Your Loved Ones Are Upset About Your Divorce in Virginia

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you and your spouse are getting a divorce in Virginia, you'll probably be focused on your own relationship, and the challenges you'll face while ending it; however, it's important to realize the social impact of divorce, and how to address it, so that you can avoid some of the painful conflicts it can cause.

First of all, let go of guilt. Your decision to seek a divorce is entirely up to you and/or your spouse. Only the two of you truly know the state of your relationship, and it's up to you to decide if and when to end it. It's also up to you how you're going to handle the aftermath of divorce.

In some cases, it can be awkward to remain on good terms with your ex's friends if you aren't friendly with him. Sometimes the friends may take sides and be the ones who back off despite your efforts to remain in their lives.

Your family may have their own opinions about your decision to seek a divorce in Virginia, and your relationships with family -particularly in-laws - might suffer. If you have children, it's best to try and keep things amicable at the very least.

The social impact of divorce varies from case to case. You don't always have full control of the outcome of these situations, but you can minimize the blow by keeping a positive outlook and sticking with the people in your life who are supportive.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

3 Reasons to Assert Financial Freedom after a Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're divorcing in Virginia, it's wise to make a commitment to manage your money. Some women, despite how difficult their divorces may have been, continue to rely on their exes for financial advice. While a Virginia divorce attorney is not a money manager, you can still consult a lawyer to get advice on how to move forward.

It's not uncommon for there to be a primary money manager in a relationship. Many times, the male partner is the one who ends up in this position, and some women are okay with their ex handling their finances even after they have divorced.

Why you may be the better candidate to handle your money:

Your husband may not have your best interests at heart. While your ex might act as though all is well, it's possible that his motives for handling your money aren't the best.
You should have privacy. Ask yourself whether you're okay with your ex knowing how much you have and the changes that may occur in your financial situation.
Money management is a skill you should learn. Nobody is born with inherent investment information stored in their heads. Now that you are on your own, you can find out all the options available to you and take control of your own money.

If you're getting divorced in Virginia, seek out a Virginia divorce attorney who can help you find a money management team or financial counselor to help you reach financial freedom.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Facing Each Stage of Your Separation in a Virginia Divorce

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Virginia divorce usually comes after you and your spouse have gone through the stages of separation in VA. These stages are part of the process of marital breakdown. You should be aware of the emotional aspects of this process as you seek a VA separation.

disillusionment - partners no longer idealize each other and they begin to see and be annoyed by each other's faults.
erosion - partners begin to express their disappointment with each other. This can often be a time of hurtful, critical words.
detachment - often characterized by coldness and distance between the spouses.
physical separation - when most couples go forward with filing for Virginia divorce, and go through the process of ending the marriage.
mourning - similar to mourning for a loved one who's passed on. Everyone mourns in his or her own way.
second adolescence - during this time, hope and excitement for life returns.
exploration and hard work - at this point, you have come to terms with your divorce and can begin to see your new life take root.

If you are just now considering a divorce in Virginia, it might be difficult for you to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but with the help of an experienced Virginia divorce attorney, you can have a successful divorce and be able to move on.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Every Minute with Your Virginia Divorce Attorney is Valuable!

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

Many people going through the Virginia divorce process are handling stress and upheaval in their lives, making it difficult to focus on the tasks at hand.

When you're meeting with your Virginia divorce attorney, you want to make the most of your time, even if it takes some forethought and planning. A Chesapeake divorce can be a rather involved process, so it's important to stay organized for your Virginia divorce and discuss the vital issues with your attorney.

There are some duties your Virginia divorce attorney owes you. But real-life law practice rarely resembles television legal dramas. Your case won't be wrapped up in an hour, and your attorney can't change any laws to suit your case. Lawyers aren't superheroes, but they can be extremely helpful to you throughout your Virginia divorce.

Virginia divorce can be a painful time, but it's best to avoid intense emotional discussions with your attorney. He or she is a professional trained to help you work through the legal aspects of divorce, and wouldn't be the best person to address your mental health needs. In short, you should approach your time with your lawyer as you would any business relationship.

Your Virginia divorce attorney should, in turn, be willing and able to guide you through the Virginia divorce process, represent your best interests, and be fair when charging fees.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Every minute counts in a Chesapeake divorce so make sure you maximize the time you get with your Virginia divorce attorney. There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia.

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Contact a Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer if You Suspect Desertion

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If your husband has left you and you have reason to believe this is a case of desertion you should contact a Chesapeake divorce lawyer as soon as possible. Your husband may have expressed his intent to desert you verbally, in writing, or by his actions.

Desertion is one of the most difficult things a woman can go through. It can negatively affect your children and threaten your financial security, and you're left to handle all the fallout on your own.

Even if your relationship with your husband has been rocky and you were considering ending the marriage, you may still feel shocked, hurt, and afraid when he leaves you with no intention of returning.

There are cases in which a husband leaves home with no intention of going back, but finds out from an attorney that his actions constitute desertion, so he returns to the family home. When the husband leaves but then decides to come back, the wife may understandably be upset and want him gone, but there is little she can do.

With the exception of domestic abuse cases, Virginia law is not quick to order a person out of the home. A wife's best bet is to take a deep breath, consult with her Chesapeake divorce lawyer, and commit to dealing with her husband being in the home until an alternative plan can be worked out.

Contacting a Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer

Desertion is a scary situation to find yourself in, not to mention angering, so contact a Chesapeake divorce lawyer to take control of your situation. The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey.

In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Chesapeake divorce lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200

Considering a DIY Divorce in Virginia? 3 Risks You Need to Understand

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're first considering divorce in Virginia, a do-it-yourself divorce might seem like an appealing option. You may have heard that going this route is cheaper, quicker, easier, and it saves you the trouble of dealing with a lawyer.

The truth is that do-it-yourself divorce has turned out to be a mistake for many people. The main reason? Divorce isn't always simple. There may very well be factors in your marriage that would make a divorce complicated, but you can't determine this if you're not familiar with the laws surrounding a divorce in Virginia

Conflicts in Your Virginia Divorce

Division of property can be a hassle if you have assets that are difficult to value or if you and spouse cannot agree on how the property is to be divided. You don't want to get cheated out of assets that rightfully belong to you.

If you have children, you and your spouse will have to deal with arranging acceptable custody/parenting plans as well as child support. For parents, this is a very difficult part of a divorce.

It's not easy to address all these issues along with handling the considerable amount of paperwork involved in the divorce process.

It's smart to have a professional on your side to stand up for your best interests. Even if you're still considering handling your own divorce, you should consult with a qualified attorney to learn about all your options.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When Servicewomen Initiate Divorce in Virginia

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a servicewoman who is going through a divorce in Virginia, a Hampton divorce attorney can help you through the process. Serving in the armed forces is a noble calling, but it can put a strain on any relationship and holds the potential to put marriages at risk. The typical challenges of any marriage are exacerbated when you factor in the physical separation, extreme stress and lack of regular communication that comes with life in the military.

Pentagon statistics have shown that women in the military end up in divorce twice as often as men in the military. Many divorces result in a sense of loss and can be financially troubling, particularly for military women. In fact, divorce puts them at great risk for homelessness down the road.

Researchers have attempted to pinpoint why women are more often in divorce and results are unclear. One theory is that women who are attracted to participate in the military are less conventional and could be less willing to stay in a dysfunctional marriage. To combat this, many married women in the military are married to another service member who can understand the balancing act between military duty and family responsibility.

As a military woman you are under a lot of pressure and you need the proper support and space after serving to transition back into your role at home. With a shaky relationship this transition is made even more difficult and you may find yourself in a divorce in Virginia. Do not feel overwhelmed because a Hampton divorce attorney can answer all of your questions about your divorce in Virginia.

Contacting a Hampton Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The military divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Understanding Grandparents' Rights in Virginia

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Are you seeking information about grandparents' rights in Virginia? Grandparents' rights simply mean that grandparents and other persons of interest can file for visitation rights during Virginia child custody cases.

Grandparents are important people in children's lives. They provide a special kind of love that differs from the parental connection. Traditionally, grandparents have been seen as the relatives who spoil children with sweets and gifts, but they also pass down family traditions and give youngsters a link to the past.

When a couple gets a divorce and faces a Virginia child custody case, the custody arrangement's focus is primarily on the parents. However, it makes sense that the child's grandparents would have the opportunity to pursue legal rights to visitation.

In many cases, the grandparents who apply for visitation are the parents of the non-custodial parent in the Virginia child custody arrangement and are rightfully concerned about how the new situation will affect them.

Virginia family law determines grandparents' rights to visitation as it would any child custody request. The best interests of the child are considered, and basically, if the grandparent-grandchild relationship is deemed a safe and healthy one, visitation may be granted.

The success of grandparents' rights issues depends on many details. It's best to have a Virginia child custody attorney on your side.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When Your Military Husband is Behind on Virginia Child Support

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Virginia military divorce has its own unique set of rules and regulations that can make it seem more complicated than civilian divorce.

If your ex-spouse is in the military and he's behind on his child support payments, there's a specific procedure you need to go through to collect what's owed to you.

First, you will need to fill out a document called an "Income Withholding Order." On this form, you will need to put all your ex's personal information such as name, address, Social Security number and employment information. You need this form in order to collect back child support from your ex after a military divorce. Your divorce decree alone is not sufficient.

The form needs to be sent to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) Cleveland Garnishment Operation. You can send the order by fax or paper mail. Once the DFAS has received the form, they will begin the process of helping you collect Virginia child support after your Virginia military divorce.

The amount of Virginia child support you can expect to receive after your military divorce depends on what amount is in your divorce decree or separation agreement. It's possible to collect an arrearage of child support (back child support), but your withholding order needs to include directions regarding this.

The U.S armed forces takes child support orders very seriously and the military structure will help you to collect child support that's due you after your military divorce.

Contacting a Family Law Divorce Lawyer in Virginia

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Contemplating Later Life Divorce in Virginia? Here Are 3 Things to Think About!

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're contemplating a later life divorce, you'll understandably have some concerns. Many older couples have had quite a few years together, and it's by no means easy to break a long-standing bond.

There are a number of things to think about as you approach your Virginia divorce.

Reactions of your adult children. You may not have to worry about child custody, but don't underestimate how hard your later-life divorce may hit your adult children and your grandchildren. They may react emotionally when they get the news.
Dividing Assets. If you and your spouse own a home, cars, and other holdings at the time of your later life divorce, you will have the job of dividing your assets. This isn't always easy, and you may find it to your advantage to seek out divorce mediation and write up a separation agreement to set out the terms of your divorce.
Making ends meet. For some women, dividing assets isn't the biggest concern in a Virginia divorce. The simple question of how to make ends meet is a very difficult reality for many seniors. Spousal support can help you with your new life after a later life divorce. There are guidelines for spousal support in Virginia. Your Virginia divorce attorney will advocate for you to help you get what's due to you.

A later life divorce can be a challenging time in a woman's life, but with the help of a divorce attorney with your best interests in mind, you can come through it with dignity and move on with the rest of your life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

6 Questions to Ask Before You Hire Your Newport News Divorce Lawyer

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

You should take special care when choosing an attorney to handle your Virginia divorce case. There are some questions you should ask yourself when you're looking for a lawyer to represent you.

Does the lawyer focus specifically on family law? Divorce involves the most important parts of your life: your children, your home, and your finances. Choose an attorney who's experienced these types of cases.
Who will be handling your case? Sometimes, an attorney will delegate a case (or parts of a case) to a paralegal or associate. Ask to meet these individuals to be sure that you're comfortable with the arrangement.
Is the lawyer attentive and on task? An attorney should listen to the details of your case and be prepared to guide you through the divorce process.
Is the attorney willing to negotiate a settlement? Divorce shouldn't be all about who wins and who loses, but about reaching a fair settlement.
Is the lawyer a good communicator? Look for someone who takes the time to educate you about the divorce process and is willing to answer your questions.
Is the lawyer a person of good character? An attorney should be respectful, compassionate, and honest not detached, rude, or make any unrealistic promises.

Choosing an attorney is the first and most important part of your Virginia divorce case. Be sure to do your homework and go with an attorney you feel comfortable with.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When Career/Success is Blamed for Your Virginia Divorce

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

When most couples marry, they hope to be successful in their careers so that they can build stable homes. Unfortunately, career success can put a strain on a marriage, sometimes resulting in Virginia divorce.

Changes in career affect marriage and family life, even positive ones, like promotions and raises, for several reasons:

Schedule changes can cause tension in the home, particularly when one partner is occupied with work and the other has to shoulder more domestic responsibilities.
Financial disagreements can lead to Virginia divorce. Even a positive career change can cause a power imbalance and arguments over money.
Jealousy and competition between spouses is not unheard of. When one partner has more career success than the other, it can lead to feelings of inadequacy, fear of abandonment and other issues.
Career success doesn't always turn out as planned, and a couple has to face the emotional and financial realities that setbacks can bring. In some cases, this can put a great deal of stress on the marriage and contribute to the decision to seek a Virginia divorce.

If career success issues cause problems between you and your spouse and you're considering ending your marriage, you should contact a Virginia divorce attorney as soon as possible.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

What is no-fault divorce in Virginia?

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're considering divorce in Virginia, no-fault divorce may be one of your options. Most states offer no-fault divorce, either on its own or in addition to fault grounds.

What is no-fault divorce in Virginia?

In fault divorce, the partners have to state a reason or "grounds" for their divorce. Usually these grounds consist of adultery, cruelty, abandonment and more. No-fault divorce means you don't have to state a specific reason for deciding to end your marriage.

Usually, in a no-fault divorce, the reason for divorce is listed as "irreconcilable differences" or "irreparable breakdown of the marriage." People can choose no-fault divorce if their marital breakdown didn't involve fault grounds for divorce or if they prefer to proceed with the divorce without placing blame.

Guidelines for No-Fault Divorce in Virginia

In order to be able to obtain a no-fault divorce in Virginia, you and your spouse need to have lived apart for a period of one year. While Virginia has no legal separation, this period of living apart exists to help you understand the seriousness of divorce and to prepare for your future.

In some cases, the waiting period can be reduced to 6 months if the couple has no children and they've drawn up a separation agreement detailing the divorce's conditions, like division of property and spousal support.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

What You Should Know About How VA Child Support is Calculated

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you and your spouse end your marriage, you will have the responsibility of supporting your children together even though you are no longer a couple. Virginia child support guidelines exist to make sure that children of divorced parents receive a fair and livable amount of monthly financial support.

Many divorcing parents have questions about how VA child support is calculated. Even if you have looked at the charts, it can still be a bit confusing.

In general, Virginia child support is calculated by looking at the monthly incomes of both the custodial and non-custodial parents. The court then compares each parent's monthly gross income to the combined gross income.

To determine the monthly obligation, each party's percentage of combined income is multiplied by the total monthly child support costs.

This example of how VA child support is calculated is based on a situation in which one parent has sole custody. In case of other child custody arrangements, or changes in the parent's circumstances, the Virginia child support will be adjusted accordingly.

There are many factors that influence how VA child support is calculated. If you are getting a divorce, you should have a knowledgeable divorce attorney on your side to represent you.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

U.S. Divorce Rates Have Declined

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're getting divorced in Virginia, you're probably more concerned about your own personal struggle than you are about statistics, but knowing some basic information about divorce rates can help you put things in perspective and plan for your future.

In the 1970s, it seemed the institution of marriage was in serious trouble. Traditional gender roles were re-examined, and women entered the workforce in record numbers. These social and economic changes, along with more relaxed divorce laws, led to skyrocketing divorce rates among American couples.

Fast forward to today. Marriage is alive and well, and the U.S. divorce rate has actually dropped steadily since 1996 for multiple reasons. The social upheaval of the '70s has simmered down; couples have many more resources to help them learn effective partnership skills; and people are waiting longer to tie the knot.

While the U.S. divorce rate is decreasing, some couples will find themselves in circumstances that warrant a divorce. If you're getting a Virginia divorce, you should know that you are not alone. You should also know that your divorce is likely to go much more smoothly when you have an experienced attorney on your side to stand up for your best interests.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Understanding Virginia Separation Agreement Forms

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

Embarking on a divorce is difficult for anyone. Even for those partners who have no doubts about their incompatibility and are eager to end their marriage, the act of separation can be difficult for both practical and emotional reasons.

As you begin the process of officially ending your marriage, you should consider a separation agreement. Virginia separation agreements are legal documents that contain the conditions of your separation and divorce.

A separation agreement contains the basic legal language that appears in most types of agreements or contracts. In the opening lines of a Virginia separation agreement, it states that you and your spouse mutually agree to settle your property, custody, and financial issues.

The main portion of the Virginia separation agreement will include the decisions you and your spouse have made regarding issues like child custody and child support, division of property, and spousal support.

It's not always easy to come to agreements about such important matters, but having a separation agreement can make your divorce process go more smoothly. Remember that a separation agreement is binding, and a judge usually takes the agreement as your final decisions regarding all these issues.

It's best not to attempt to execute a separation agreement on your own. Be sure to have a Virginia divorce attorney on your side to make sure that the document is fair and legal.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The 5 Grounds for Divorce in Virginia

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

People decide to seek a divorce for a variety of reasons. If you're considering ending your marriage, you should become familiar with the grounds for divorce in Virginia.

Grounds for divorce give reason to why your marriage ended. The 5 grounds for divorce in Virginia are the following:

If the couple has been living apart for a period of 1 year, the law will consider them separated long enough to file for divorce.
The separation period can be reduced to 6 months if the partners have executed a separation agreement and have no minor children.
For adultery (sexual relations outside of the marriage), or for sodomy or buggery.
In situations where one of the partners has been sentenced to a prison term of 1 year or more, and the other spouse ceased co-habiting with him or her after learning of the conviction.
In cases of abuse, where one spouse reasonably fears bodily harm from the other, or in cases of desertion.

If you have questions about any of the grounds for divorce in Virginia, you should speak with an experienced divorce attorney.

An attorney can advise you about the details of the grounds for divorce in Virginia and can help you understand the more complicated areas of Virginia divorce law.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Our Virginia divorce attorneys care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Prepare Yourself for the Emotional Challenges of Ending a Marriage in Virginia

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're ending a marriage in Virginia, you will likely run the gamut of emotions during the divorce process. Even if you're relieved and glad the marriage is over, you will likely have some difficult feelings to resolve.

Ending a marriage in Virginia involves dividing property, creating custody and visitation plans for children, and very often moving to a new home. All these things can be stressful. In addition, you have the reality that a once-loving relationship has now come to an end.

Marriages rarely die immediately; they usually erode slowly, going through several stages of breakdown. Every stage of the process has its own distinct emotional challenges.

The early stages usually involve a general sense of disappointment and unhappiness. Partners may say hurtful and critical things about each other and blame each other for anything that goes wrong.

Soon, the partners withdraw from each other and become cold. They may no longer fight, but they won't have much positive interaction, either. They avoid spending time together.

Ending a marriage isn't emotionally easy, but in some cases, it is the best option. If you're considering divorce, you should contact a Virginia divorce attorney. Having an attorney on your side to deal with the legal aspects can allow you more time to work on your own emotional healing.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Is He Hiding Something from You During Your Virginia Divorce?

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

In a Virginia divorce, both spouses are required to be open and honest regarding all their financial holdings and property. Unfortunately, not everyone is truthful when it comes to his or her assets. Hiding assets is not an uncommon behavior.

It can be painful to think your husband would be dishonest with you during an already difficult time for both of you, but you need to be aware of the possibility.

People hide assets for many reasons, but usually because they want to leave the marriage with as much money as possible, and because, out of spite, they want to deny their spouse their fair share. In some cases, the secrecy around finances and assets was a part of the marriage for a long time, and contributed to marital breakdown.

If you think your husband may be hiding assets during your Virginia divorce, it's a serious matter that needs to be looked into. If he has more assets than he's showing and he's not found out, you can end up being cheated out of what is rightfully yours in the Virginia divorce.

When it comes to hiding assets, people can use various strategies. They may transfer money to a family member's name, have secret accounts of their own, or falsify information on financial documents. These methods are not always easy to detect.

During your divorce, your attorney can help you determine whether your husband is hiding assets. He or she can examine important financial documents and keep an eye out for any clues that might point to suspicious activity.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Protect Your Credit Score After a Messy Virginia Divorce!

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you and your spouse are facing divorce, you need to think about preserving or repairing your credit. While you may already feel overwhelmed by the other things you have to deal with at this difficult time, taking the necessary steps to protect yourself will save you more heartache after Virginia divorce.

Before your divorce proceedings begin, you should close all joint accounts. This is an essential step when you're trying to resolve credit problems. Most couples share their money, and while this can be seen as a sign of love and trust in a relationship, it can complicate matters quite a bit when a marriage comes to an end.

Throughout your Virginia divorce, be sure your bills are being paid to the best of your ability. If your soon-to-be-ex is not paying bills that he is responsible for, that can be addressed in court when the time comes.

During your divorce you should contact your creditors and try to work out a plan to pay off or settle your debt. Dealing with creditors can be nerve-wracking, but sometimes negotiating with them can help you resolve your credit issues.

If your attempts to pay off or settle your debts are unsuccessful, you can freeze your accounts. While this won't resolve your credit issues entirely it can help prevent further damage.

When accounts are frozen, neither you nor your ex can use them, so no more debt will be accrued. During your divorce the court will decide who is responsible for the debt, and will transfer responsibility for it to the appropriate party.

Contacting a Divorce Attorney in Virginia

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life

The Issue of Separation in Virginia

Thu, 26 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you and your spouse are having serious problems in your relationship and feel that ending your marriage is the only option, your first step is separation.

A Virginia separation gives you and your spouse time to experience the reality of being apart and prepare for the life you will lead after divorce. In Virginia, the period of separation necessary before filing for divorce is 6 months to a year.

Unlike separation in some other states, separation in Virginia does not require you to file any specific paperwork or receive any document that declares you legally separated.

You and your spouse simply agree to stop living together as a couple. This usually means that one or both of you must physically move out of the marital home, but in some cases, the court will accept what is known as "in-home separation".

While you don't need any special documents to separate from your spouse, it's very wise to execute a Virginia separation agreement. Separation agreements help set out the conditions of your separation and they usually make a Virginia divorce quicker and easier.

In a Virginia separation agreement, you and your ex put all your important separation decisions in writing. For example, you can include your decisions about dividing your assets, child support, access and ownership of the family home, and many more vital issues.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Virginia Women: What to Know About Leaving an Addict

Mon, 23 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're seeking a Virginia divorce from a husband who has an addiction to alcohol, drugs, gambling or sex, you should be aware of the unique, sometimes-complicated dynamics that are often at work in an addict's relationships.

Leaving an addict can be challenging. Many times, there are co-dependency issues between partners that aren't always easy to see. This can lead the addicted partner to try and control and manipulate his spouse into remaining in the relationship.

If you're ready to end your relationship and you're seeking a Virginia divorce, you should stand by your decision and not allow yourself to be affected by your husband's emotional strategies.

Guilt is a common feeling for many people when leaving an addict. You may feel that you are walking away from him when he needs you most, or that staying with him a little longer and giving him another chance would help him recover.

In reality, the choice to seek help for an addiction is ultimately up to the addicted individual. Staying locked in an unhealthy, dysfunctional relationship with an addict doesn't do either of you any good, so you should not feel guilty about seeking a Virginia divorce in that situation.

Addiction affects every aspect of a person's life and frequently leads to erratic or irresponsible behavior, and sometimes abuse. If you have any concerns that seeking a Virginia divorce may lead to violence from your husband, please - seek help from your local domestic abuse organization.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

What You Need To Know About Joint Custody in Virginia

Fri, 13 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Joint custody is one of the parenting plan options for people going through a Virginia divorce. There are 3 types of joint custody in Virginia, and it's a good idea to understand the differences between them.

In joint legal custody, the child lives with one parent, but both parents have the power to make the childrearing decisions. In shared physical custody, the child divides his or her time between parental homes.

Parents can also create their own hybrid arrangement that combines joint legal and shared physical custody. In this way, there's quite a bit of leeway when addressing joint custody in Virginia.

Before pursuing joint custody in Virginia, you should take into consideration all the financial, legal, and emotional pros and cons.

It's not always easy for a divorcing couple to handle the cooperation involved in sharing joint custody in Virginia, but it's necessary if they want their co-parenting to go smoothly.

If the divorcing couple can work out an agreeable parenting plan, they can put it in writing in their Virginia separation agreement and avoid the drama of a courtroom custody battle.

Then, when the custody plan is put into action, the former couple can work through their differences with each other either on their own or through family counseling. This way, their children can feel more secure and adjust to the divorce in a more healthy way.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Virginia Divorce: A Step-by-Step Process

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you and your spouse are considering divorce, you should become familiar with the steps involved in the Virginia divorce process.

The Virginia divorce process is started when one spouse (who will be known in the case as the plaintiff) files a paper called a "Bill of Complaint for Divorce" with the court. The Complaint contains basic information such as the partners' names and birth dates and those of their children, date of marriage, and grounds for divorce.

Once the compliant is filed, the defendant is expected to file a document called an "answer." The case can proceed when the answer is filed, or after 21 days has gone by, whichever comes first. At this stage of the divorce process, you can request a preliminary hearing in which a judge will issue a temporary (or pendente lite) order that addresses these matters.

The next step in the Virginia divorce process is the hearing itself. The purpose of a hearing is to prove that you have valid grounds for divorce. Many people find the hearing a difficult part of the Virginia divorce process, but it's much easier when you have a trustworthy Virginia divorce attorney on your side to advocate for you.

The Virginia divorce process is concluded when the court issues a divorce decree. The divorce decree states that your marriage has been dissolved and it also details the decisions that the judge has made in regard to division of property, child and spousal support, and child custody.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

How do you plan to tell your husband you're ready for a Virginia divorce?

Wed, 11 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Each marriage is unique, so there are various ways to approach communicating about divorce. However, there are some rules of thumb to follow that might make things go more smoothly.

Many women are surprised by their husband's reaction to the news of an impending Virginia divorce. Even if the marriage has been breaking down for a while, he may still be shocked when you finally express your decision.

It's best that you handle your own emotions the best way you can before communicating about divorce. That will make it easier for you to handle your husband's response. Make the choice to be calm and logical.

While anger and discord may very well have been a part of your marriage, it's best to try and leave those things behind when you're communicating about divorce. Don't yell or make accusations; simply explain why you're choosing to end the marriage.

If you have children, you can tell your husband you want to continue to share parenting with him and that you'd like to create a custody plan that will work for both of you after the Virginia divorce.

Don't let your husband make you feel guilty about filing for a Virginia divorce, and don't give yourself a guilt trip, either. If you know you're doing the right thing, stand your ground.

Communicating about divorce isn't always easy, but if you start now, you and your ex can have healthier communication as you move on with your lives after Virginia divorce.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Pendente Lite hearing affects Wife's Virginia Divorce

Tue, 10 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Beware of an Attorney who does not prepare you for a Pendente Lite Hearing in a Divorce case ! Perhaps one of the greatest errors i observe in Divorce cases is the unprepared client or worse, an unprepared attorney. Pendente Lite Hearings are initial court hearings to temporarily resolve issues of spousal support, custody,,visitation, child support,

possession of the residence, payment of the mortgage and debts (after 7/1/11) restraining orders regarding no harassment of the parties and no wasting of assets and the issues of attorney fees and expert fees. It is very important that you the client be aware of exactly what will happen at your pendente lite hearing.
The most likely thing to happen is that you will be advised to try and settle these issues out in the hall or in a small conference room in the courthouse. The pressure to peacefully resolve unresolved issues is being applied by the Judge and in turn by your attorney and your husband's attorney. If You have met with your attorney prior to this hearing and spent time preparing for this eventuality then your attorney knows the parameters of settlement and can act accordingly. If you have not met with your attorney, then you will feel very pressured to arrive at an agreement and unsure of your decisions. Don't wait for your attorney to set this appointment. Do it as soon as you are noticed for a Pendente Lite Hearing.

Virginia Mothers--Be wary of Your Child's Guardian Ad Litem

Mon, 09 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Remember ! Your Child's Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) may oppose you in court ! Don't ever lose sight of that possibility. You should not meet with a guardian ad litem before you have had time to talk with your attorney, if you have one. If you don't have an attorney,you can have a one hour consultation with an experienced custody lawyer to help you figure out how best to present your case to the court appointed GAL.

Most GAL's will ask you to fill out a parenting questionairre. Be careful how you answer questions for the Guardian. In the courtroom, they may favor dad and will try and use your questionairre answers against you. Remember the GAL is your child's attorney, not yours. Thus, you are always in the difficult position of trying to influence the guardian to your point of view while not being overly critical or ugly about the child's father. This is the tightrope you must carefully walk.

Virginia Mother's Beware--Guardian Ad Litem (part B)

Sun, 08 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

As a Mother, when dealing with a Guardian Ad Litem in your child custody case:

Don't Exaggerate, Understate.--when explaining the difficulties you are encountering with the father of your child, narrow the focus and the conversation to the top 1 or 2 issues. Focus on the most critical issue and be organized about your concerns. Have specific incidences outlined in summary form with a list of any witnesses, their phone numbers, email address and physical address as well as the best time to call. Give a copy of your outline to the GAL but make sure their is no profanity and no opinions about dad. The outline should not be longer than one page.

Don't be a "Gusher" in your first Meeting - If you are speaking more than 5 or 6 minutes straight about an issue, you are probably "gushing". I liken "gushing" to verbally throwing upon the GAL, trying to express all your thoughts and emotions about dad's parenting deficiencies in one prolonged monologue. The problem with "gushing" is the GAL, like other people, just quit hearing and discerning what you are trying to communicate. They simply turn "gushers" off.

Part "C" to follow-Feed your information to the GAL in manageable doses---- Your GAL may oppose you in Court-----

3 Ways Your Ex May Try to Alienate You from Your Kids after a Virginia divorce

Sun, 08 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you have suffered a Virginia divorce but also are dealing with an angry ex-husband you may be at risk for parental alienation.

The 3 ways that your ex may try to alienate you from your kids after a Virginia divorce include:

criticizing you;
spoiling your child; and
withholding information.

Joint custody in Virginia is difficult enough without your ex using parental alienation to manipulate your child's feelings. When your ex complains about you when you aren't around to defend yourself he is acting inappropriately. He may be upset about the custody ruling or bitter about the split but he should not be allowed to hatefully disparage you to your child.

Your ex could make you look bad to your child in other ways as well, without outright criticisms. He can try to make you look bad by comparison by showering your child with expensive gifts or trips, or even indulging your child by allowing activities that used to be off-limits.

When your ex lets your child stay up late watching R-rated movies and eating junk food your house seems less appealing. Familiarize yourself with Virginia child custody laws so you'll know when your ex is acting out of turn.

An uncommunicative ex can be just as bad as one that goes out of his way to criticize or spoil. When an ex withholds information from you, like the days and times of a child's dance recital or sporting event you appear disinterested when you are absent from these important events. When an ex refuses to communicate with you he may be using parental alienation.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Lawyer

At Hofheimer/Ferrebee, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children's future. Our women's-only Virginia child custody lawyers will guide you every step of the way to advocate that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.

To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

When is an annulment in Virginia possible?

Sat, 07 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

There are sometimes misconceptions concerning annulment, so if you're seeking an annulment in Virginia, it's best to learn the laws surrounding it in order to know whether your marriage meets the criteria.

Annulment is different from divorce. An annulment makes a marriage null and void, so essentially it's as though the marriage never happened. In order for this to be appropriate, the marriage has to have some defect or have been entered into based on false pretenses.

For example, a marriage may have been illegal at the time it was performed because the person who performed the ceremony wasn't properly licensed to do so. Marriages may also be illegal if the parties are close relatives, younger than the age of consent or if one of the partners is still legally married to someone else at the time.

Annulment in Virginia is also possible if the marriage occurred under fraudulent circumstances. For example, if one partner failed to disclose an important fact that would certainly have influenced the other's decision to enter into the union (such as a prior felony conviction, prostitution career, pregnancy or child with another individual within 10 months of marriage), annulment in Virginia may be an option.

While laws surrounding annulment in Virginia differ quite a bit from those of divorce, it may still be necessary for the court to address issues of child custody, child support and possibly spousal support, as well.

Annulment in Virginia isn't very common and is rarely granted in order to meet religious requirements. If you have questions about annulment, you should speak with a Virginia divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Virginia Mother's BEWARE of Guardian Ad Litem in Child Custody Cases

Sat, 07 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

When custody of your children is in dispute, or sometimes, when visitation cannot be agreed to by the parents, courts will often appoint a Guardian Ad Litem to represent the "best interest" of your Children..

Don't Assume The Guardian Ad Litem will Share Your View

A Guardian ad Litem, often referred to as a GAL, is a court appointed attorney who can have a significant influence on the outcome of your custody case and that influence can be against your interest and in favor of the children's father. So do not assume that a GAL will share your views about what is best for your children.

Don't Spill Your Guts to the Guardian Ad Litem

Be Careful about spilling your guts to the GAL. If you start spilling your guts and telling the GAL about every wrong thing the children's father has ever done, you will quickly turn the GAL against you and once they form an opinion about you, it is hard to undo that opinion. GAL's are people just like you and me and they bring to your case their own predjudices and agendas. You want to be very careful what you tell a GAL and how you tell it.

Don't Criticize Father-Relate how his actions impact your child

Don't criticize Dad, Show how what Dad did impacts your child. For Instance, instead of telling the GAL that your child's father is inconsiderate and never thinks about how his actions affect young "Mike", you might describe exactly how "Mike" reacts when dad's promises are unfullfilled. Give believable examples of dad's actions and their impact on your son.
Par "B" to follow.
1. Don't Exaggerate, Understate.
2. Don't be a "Gusher" in your first meeting
3. Feed Your Information to the GAL in manageable doses
4. Remember the GAL may be your ADVERSARY in court. Don't Ever Forget This !

What You Need to Know About a Separation Agreement for your Virginia Divorce

Fri, 06 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're getting a Virginia divorce, you have a lot to consider. There are so many issues to work through as you and your spouse separate your lives and property that it helps to have something solid in writing as your guide.

A separation agreement is a document that allows you and your spouse to outline your decisions concerning division of property, parenting plans, spousal support and more. You and your partner can execute the separation agreement as soon as you decide to seek a Virginia divorce, whether or not you are still living together.

Couples who choose separation agreements often do so because they would like to have control over their divorce. If the pair cannot agree on the important matters of their divorce, the decisions will be left up to a judge.

A court will usually uphold the decisions contained in the separation agreement, so whatever you put into the agreement will be the conditions you have to live with following your Virginia divorce. It's wise to have your own attorney review the separation agreement to make sure the contents are fair and equitable.

Each state has its own specific rules and regulations pertaining to separation agreements. If you're considering executing a separation agreement, you should speak with a Virginia divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Proving Adultery in the Course of Your Virginia Divorce

Thu, 05 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Adultery is one of the leading causes of Virginia divorce. If you believe your husband has cheated on you and you want to file for divorce on the grounds of adultery, you will need to show proof the infidelity occurred.

Many times, a woman will have a strong intuition that her husband is cheating. You may or may not be correct in your assumption but when it comes to Virginia divorce, proving adultery takes more than just a gut feeling.

Proving adultery is not always easy. Normally, when proving any event occurred, eyewitness testimony is the best type of evidence. Of course, when it comes to adultery, there are rarely ever any eyewitnesses to the act, so the case needs to be built on what is called circumstantial evidence.

Circumstantial evidence shows your husband had the inclination and opportunity to commit adultery.

Proving adultery in a Virginia divorce with this kind of evidence can include things like:

Letters or texts - information showing intimate communication or cell phone records that show repeated calls to the same number.

Photos - visual evidence of your spouse and the alleged paramour entering or exiting her house or a hotel or being affectionate in any public place.
Travel records - showing your husband and his suspected lover traveling to the same place at the same time.
Computers - it can hold a treasure trove of information, so if you can get access to the data, you may be in luck.

Discovering adultery is a heartbreaking experience and taking steps to prove it can be difficult in more ways than one without the help of legal counsel. If you have any questions about proving adultery, you should speak with an experienced Virginia divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200

6 Signs You Need to Contact a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:00:00 EST

Divorce is a painful and difficult decision for anyone. It's also one that brings with it a myriad of changes that need to be addressed through legal avenues. Some people choose do-it-yourself divorce but in many cases the problems that result from it outweigh the financial savings.

You should consider hiring a Virginia Beach divorce attorney if:

You have children -with issues like custody, visitation and child support to address, it's smart to have a Virginia Beach divorce attorney on your side.
You and your spouse disagree on most issues -when conflict is the norm, it's unlikely you'll be able to negotiate your separation without professional legal help.
You have a home and assets -in some cases, division of property can be complicated. A Virginia Beach divorce attorney can help make sure you receive your fair share.
There is or was abuse in your relationship - an abusive dynamic can make it impossible to negotiate and communicate in a safe and effective way. It's best to remove yourself from the situation and consult a Virginia Beach divorce attorney.
You're disorganized - divorce creates a large amount of paperwork. If you tend to be scatterbrained when under stress, you may benefit from the help of a Virginia Beach divorce attorney.
Your spouse has an attorney - if your husband has a lawyer to represent him, it's wise for you to seek counsel from a Virginia Beach divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody dispute and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Virtual "Visitation" After a Virginia Divorce

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Families dealing with divorce often have struggles when it comes to Virginia child custody and parenting plans. Sometimes, after a divorce, the ex-partners move to new locations or change jobs and find it difficult to see their children as often as they'd like.

The times between visits can be difficult for both the parents and the children, and can have a serious impact on the whole family's ability to recover from the trauma of divorce and adapt to child custody plans.

To address this situation, some states now have statutes recognizing "virtual visitation". Virtual visitation is electronic interaction between parent and child that is part of an overall parenting plan.

Virtual visitation is usually conducted through online chats via web cam, so parents and children who live apart can enjoy family time that is as close to "real life" as possible.

While the state of Virginia does not yet have any child custody laws pertaining to virtual visitation, this doesn't mean it is not an option for you or that parents can't use technology in order to maximize their time with their kids.

Many children and teens are technology oriented and may actually prefer some aspects of virtual visitation to face-to-face interaction. Recognizing this fact may help parents reach out more effectively to children who have a hard time communicating their feelings after divorce.

Virtual visitation methods can easily be integrated with court-ordered parenting plans. In this way, kids can enjoy more quality time with both of their parents. Talk to your Virginia Beach child custody lawyer about whether virtual visitation is a viable option for your post-divorce family.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Child Custody Lawyer

Our Virginia Beach child custody lawyers care about your rights, the welfare and happiness of your children, and your financial security. Let us use our unique experience to help you focus on your goals for the future and your family. To learn more about Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

4 Signs You Should Seek Marital Counseling Before Filing for Virginia Divorce

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Marital counseling addresses many of the issues that might lead a couple to seek a Virginia divorce, whether it's financial disagreements, infidelity, arguments about the children or most any other conflict.

The following are just a few scenarios in which a couple might benefit from seeking marital counseling before a Virginia divorce:

You keep facing the same conflict again and again - eventually, this cyclical bickering can stress both you and your partner to the point of considering Virginia divorce. However, sometimes the solution can come through creative brainstorming with the guidance of marital counseling.
You went through a stressful major event - things like a sudden loss of income or the death of a close family member can lead to Virginia divorce, particularly when partners handle grief in vastly different ways. Marital counseling can help the partners work through such emotional complications.
You're willing to make changes - change isn't always easy but it is often necessary when a marriage is on the brink of a Virginia divorce. When you're in marital counseling, you and your spouse should be open to making changes in the way you approach your relationship, even if these changes are non-traditional or take some getting used to.
You're both on board - while it's possible for only one spouse to undergo marital counseling, it is very difficult for any progress to take place in this arrangement. Partners don't have to be in the best of moods when they arrive at counseling, as long as they show up and are willing to try.

Deciding to seek a Virginia divorce is a life-altering decision. When it's your only option, you'll want to work with a Virginia divorce attorney, who can help your case go as smoothly as possible, so you can focus on the future.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Telling Loved Ones About Your Husband's Affair and Possible Virginia Divorce

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When your husband has an affair, it affects not only your marriage but also your relationships with other people.

For instance, you may be wondering whether you should tell your family and friends about your husband's adultery. On one hand, you may think that people close to you already notice that something isn't right between you and your spouse and that it's best if they're prepared in case you decide to seek a Virginia divorce.

On the other hand, you may feel that your husband's adultery is very personal information and that telling others may make matters worse by encouraging gossip.

Whether you tell people about your husband's adultery depends on a few factors. Before you tell anyone, you should first ask yourself whether the individual is trustworthy. Can you be confident that the news of your husband's adultery and your possible Virginia divorce won't be spread around to others?

If you do decide to discuss this information, it should be with people you love and trust. Even in that case, how much information you reveal is up to you.

While it may feel therapeutic to vent about your husband's adultery, doing so may backfire on you if you both decide not to get a Virginia divorce. It will be more difficult to rebuild your marriage if the people surrounding you are turned against your husband and are unsupportive.

How you cope with the aftermath of your husband's adultery is your decision, including whether you want to tell others that your husband had an affair. Either way, be sure it's the right decision for you and your future.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

When The Division of Property is Complicated in a Virginia Divorce

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

During a Virginia divorce, the law is designed to be as fair as possibly when dividing assets equitably between the divorcing parties. While this may seem like it would be a rather simple practice, in reality it can be complicated. First, determining which assets should be divided isn't always a clear-cut decision.

In a Virginia divorce, unless the couple sets out their plans in a separation agreement, the court needs to sort out marital and separate property and divide the marital property between the spouses.

It's possible to run into complications in this scenario. For example, if a couple's family home was purchased using funds from the sale of a home one of the spouses owned prior to marriage, complications can result.

Dividing assets fairly in a Virginia divorce doesn't always mean splitting them 50/50. There are many factors that determine the division of property, including the role each partner played in the marital breakdown, the contributions each spouse made to the marriage and, of course, the value of the assets.

Determining the value of assets can sometimes be another tricky aspect of dividing assets in a Virginia divorce. For example, it can be difficult to determine the value of holdings that won't reach their full value until some point in the future.

Also, it can be hard to determine the value of businesses or artwork. Dividing assets can present a host of tax issues as well, so it's best to consult with a knowledgeable Virginia divorce attorney so the financial aspects of your divorce can be handled wisely.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical you have exceptional legal representation who not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Stepparent Rights in Virginia: What You Need to Know!

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're thinking of building a family through stepparent adoption in Virginia, you should know as much as you can about the process.

Stepparent adoption helps give children a sense of stability and security by creating a family bond that is legally and socially recognized. Virginia family law tries to make stepparent adoption as quick and simple a process as possible. Even so, your stepparent rights in Virginia are a bit limited until the process is finalized.

In some situations, stepparent adoption can be complicated. This happens primarily in cases where the absent biological parent is still legally part of the child's life. Because Virginia family law holds a biological parent's rights in high regard, an individual can only adopt his or her spouse's child if the child's other biological parent is no longer eligible or able to parent.

If the child's other biological parent is alive and can be located, he or she would have to agree to the adoption. There are exceptions to this, for example, in cases where the parent has given up parental rights or has had those right terminated by a Virginia family law court.

To begin the stepparent adoption process, an individual files a petition for adoption in circuit court. Normally, Virginia family law doesn't require any investigation or home study before granting a stepparent adoption but may authorize courts to do so, if necessary.

Stepparent adoption is a big step. If you and your spouse are considering stepparent adoption, you should consult an attorney experienced in Virginia family law to help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Contacting a Virginia Family Law Attorney

There are very specific rules governing divorce in Virginia. At Hofheimer/Ferrebee we are committed to providing you with the experience and compassion you deserve and the successful results you need to move on with your life. Request a FREE copy of our divorce guide for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Recovering Financially After a Later Life Divorce in Virginia

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Later life divorce is becoming more common as people take a less traditional approach to aging. While parting ways with a spouse and starting a new, single life can be difficult at any age, it can be especially hard for mature individuals who are also facing the challenges of their senior years.

Managing your money is one of the first things to look at after your later-life divorce in Virginia. When you have a measure of financial stability, you can focus on thriving in your new post-divorce life.

Social Security benefits can be helpful when it comes to financial recovery after divorce. If your marriage lasted at least 10 years, you may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits on your ex-spouse's work record, as long as you meet the age requirements and other specifications required in Virginia.

To bring more money into your household after a later life divorce in Virginia, you can seek income from multiple sources. That doesn't necessarily mean getting a night job; many older people have valuable experience and talents that can lead to side businesses or at-home work.

You'll also need to be a good planner when it comes to managing your money. If you haven't already, you should start budgeting and planning where your money is going to go.

Your later life divorce in Virginia may bring you some challenges, but with good planning, you can find ways to manage your money and rebuild your life.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Collaborative Divorce: Is it the right choice for my later-life divorce in Virginia?

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a woman facing a later-life divorce in Virginia, you might want to consider a collaborative divorce. In a collaborative divorce, your divorce is a team effort, rather than an adversarial process.

A collaborative divorce gives you access to professional guidance that can help you make better decisions and find more creative solutions during your divorce. You and your soon-to-be-ex will each have a Virginia divorce attorney and a divorce coach of your own. There will also be one financial specialist and one child specialist, both of whom are neutral.

All that's required of you and your spouse during your collaborative divorce is that you be civil and cooperative with one another and with the team. You also agree not to pursue litigation against each other during the collaborative divorce process.

In a later-life divorce, the partners are more mature, so they may be better able to negotiate and talk honestly about their assets and post-divorce arrangements. They may also be more interested in a divorce that doesn't lead to as much emotional and financial stress.

Collaborative divorce is not for everyone but if you're going through a later life divorce and you feel that you and your spouse can work together to end your marriage in peace, it's worth looking into.

Whatever your reasons for considering a later-life divorce, you should seek the advice of a Virginia divorce attorney.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia divorce attorney at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Mental Health Support for Military Women during a Virginia Divorce

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

If you're a woman in the military, your Virginia divorce may be just one of the harrowing experiences you've had to face in recent years.

One reason why Virginia divorce happens more frequently in military marriages is because of the stressors that come with the job. Sometimes these stresses are fairly mild, while other times they can be serious. It's not unusual for service members to suffer from depression, PTSD, and addiction.

These illnesses can severely harm every aspect of a woman's life, including her relationship with her family, and can lead to a Virginia divorce. Fortunately, there are services available that make recovery possible.

Grace After Fire is an organization that tends to the mental health needs of women in the military. They offer counseling services and the opportunity to stay at one of their recovery centers.

If you're a woman in the military who's overwhelmed by anxiety or addiction symptoms, and the stress is being compounded by your Virginia divorce, you might want to consider taking advantage of this organization or other counseling services.

Your Virginia divorce attorney is on your side to handle your legal needs, while organizations like Grace After Fire can help you and other military women during divorce to look after your mental and emotional well being.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

Assessing Your Best Approach to Co-Parenting After a Virginia Divorce

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you're co-parenting after a divorce, you may run into some disagreements with your ex over childrearing issues. This is somewhat expected when you're adjusting to a new custody arrangement, or even after you've been co-parenting for years.

It's often hard to know the best strategy for handling contrasting views when you're co-parenting after divorce. There are so many emotions between ex-spouses they may find themselves having a hard time using a logical approach to addressing problems with the kids.

Also, children splitting their time between two households may sometimes (intentionally or not) relate misinformation to you and your spouse and end up riling you both. You should determine the facts about the situation before deciding on how you'll handle it.

Your first impulse may be to give your a ex a piece of your mind, but upon further reflection decide the matter is best addressed in a more subtle way. In other cases, you may findthe incident calls for you to intervene more strongly and make your objections known.

Whatever you do, avoid speaking about your ex in a disrespectful or abusive way, especially when your children are present. This is one thing that can severely sabotage your efforts when co-parenting after divorce.

If you find you're still struggling with cooperating with your ex, consider therapy for the whole family. Therapy can be very helpful in improving communications between you, your ex-husband and your kids.

Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Lawyer

The decision to file for divorce usually comes at the end of a long and painful journey. In addition to the emotional turmoil involved, there's also a lot of fear and uncertainty about what the future holds. Concerns about children, mortgages, and even just paying the bills or buying groceries can easily become overwhelming.

A Virginia child custody lawyer at Hofheimer/Ferrebee can examine the specifics of your case to help you decide how much support to ask for, what child custody arrangement will work best for you and your children, and how to fairly divide your marital assets. Request a FREE copy of our divorce book for women in Virginia, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

5 Ways To Save Money During a Virginia Divorce

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

To save money during your Virginia divorce, you should start making good decisions before you even begin the divorce process.

Here are 5 ways to approach your divorce in order to save yourself as much money as possible:

Connect with a trustworthy Virginia divorce attorney - your attorney will advocate for you to help make sure you are treated fairly in your divorce.
Consider what type of Virginia divorce you want - traditional courtroom divorce can be a stressful and costly experience. Collaborative divorce might be a better option for you and could help you save money. Ask your attorney if you'd be a good candidate for this.
When you're looking at life after a Virginia divorce, you should have solid goals, and have them in writing - make it clear to yourself and your family what you plan for your life in 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years. This can inspire you to save money and keep going when things are tough.
Get some type of professional psychological counseling - while it may seem like an added expense, it could very well help you save money in the long run. Divorce can do a number on a person's emotional state, and being depressed, angry, and sad never helped anyone manage money wisely. An investment in your mental health is one of the smartest moves you can make.
Finally, invest in some post-divorce life management books - while they can't replace the advice of your Virginia divorce attorney, they can contain some excellent information on all aspects of your divorce, including how to save money.

Am I A Virginia Resident For My Military Divorce

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

RESIDENCY AND DOMICILE

It's important to be aware of the residency and domicile requirements of initiating a divorce action in Virginia. At the time the divorce suit is filed, either you or your husband must be and must have been an actual bona fide resident and domiciliary of Virginia for at least the preceding six months. The facts supporting the residence and domicile must be supported in your divorce Complaint. The residence and domicile requirements are two separate requirements, both of which must be proven in order for the court to have jurisdiction over your divorce action.

"Domicile" simply means that you or your husband live in a place permanently or at least indefinitely. Upon your separation, you may establish your own separate domicile. There are special rules governing residence and domicile of members of the armed forces. The governing statute provides the following: If a member of the armed forces of the United States has been stationed or has resided in Virginia for a period of six months or more immediately preceding the commencement of the divorce suit, then that person is presumed to be domiciled in and to have been a bona fide resident of Virginia. Your attorney can clarify this further should you have any specific questions on domicile status.

Health Issues for Virginia Women After Learning of Adultery

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you first learn that your husband had an affair, your mind and soul may race through a whole gamut of emotions. This is certainly a heartbreaking time and you might feel frozen and unsure of how to act.

You might want to try to save your marriage or you might want to seek a Virginia divorce. Whatever you ultimately choose, you need to start by clearing your head and focusing on your immediate needs.

During this time, it's important to take some steps to protect your self-esteem, mental and emotional well-being, including:

Make sure you're taking care of the basics - after you find out your husband had an affair, you might become stressed, lose your appetite and possibly develop sleeping problems. You can manage these reactions by being watchful of your habits and by seeking the care of a doctor or therapist, if necessary.
Take some time away - going on a short trip, even if it's a stay with friends or family, can help you feel supported and make it easier for you to decide your next move. Just be sure you make it clear to your husband that you'll be returning to the marital home. This way, if you seek a Virginia divorce, he can't claim you abandoned him.
Get tested for sexually transmitted infections - you may have been exposed to them through your husband's infidelity. Many of these infections show no symptoms at first but most are treatable, so don't procrastinate out of fear.

During this difficult time, you'll want to be as informed as possible. When you're dealing with the discovery of your husband's adultery, a Virginia divorce lawyer can help guide you by keeping you apprised of all your legal options.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

Child Custody Concerns for Military Women during a Virginia Divorce

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

Of all the difficult aspects of a Virginia divorce, child custody issues have the potential to be the most heartbreaking. If the parents can't agree to acceptable terms, or if there are extenuating circumstances, it makes the situation even more challenging.

If you're a military woman seeking a divorce, you should be aware of custody issues unique to military life and how they may affect your Virginia child custody case.

Virginia child custody is decided according to the best interests of the child. In a military environment, where the mother faces frequent moves and deployments, the stability of the home may be called into question. This is especially true if your ex is a civilian and chooses to highlight the supposed superiority of his lifestyle over your own.

As unfair as it is, the truth is that a military woman may face more judgment from society for choosing a career that takes her away from home than a man would in the same situation.

Sadly, there have been cases where military members have lost custody of their children during deployment, but thankfully, many states have adopted laws that protect service members from unnecessary loss of child custody.

Child custody can be complicated during a military divorce. As a military woman going through divorce, it's essential that you have excellent legal representation throughout your Virginia child custody case.

Contacting a Virginia Divorce Attorney

At this vulnerable time, it's critical that you have exceptional legal representation that not only understands the specifics of your case, but is dedicated to your best interests and that of your family.

The Virginia divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee represent Virginia women who wish to file for divorce. We are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life. You can learn more by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

4 Duties Your Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney Owes to You

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When it comes to attorney-client relationship, both you and your Virginia Beach divorce attorney have certain rights and responsibilities. When both parties fulfill their obligations, the divorce is more likely to be successful.

There is a specific code of conduct that guides the legal professional. Listed below are 4 key areas in which your Virginia Beach divorce attorney owes you a certain level of commitment and professionalism:

Your attorney must be loyal to your interests. The laws surrounding conflict of interests are quite complicated, but in short, your lawyer is prohibited from taking actions that are in opposition to your interests.
Confidentiality is also an important part of the attorney-client relationship. Your attorney needs to keep your private information in confidence, even after your professional relationship is over.
Your Virginia Beach divorce attorney has a duty to handle your case with competence and skill. He or she must apply their available knowledge and legal resources in your best interests. Though this may seem obvious, it isn't the case with every attorney.
Your lawyer is expected to keep you informed about developments in your case and to answer your questions. This type of communication is essential to the attorney-client relationship.

When you have a respectful, positive relationship with your Virginia Beach divorce attorney, you can be confident that your case is being handled with care and professionalism and that your best interests are being served.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.

4 Tips for Staying Organized During Your Virginia Divorce

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 08:00:00 EST

When you first meet with your Virginia Beach divorce attorney, you'll need to bring in documents that are necessary for starting the divorce process. This will likely be your first experience with the paperwork associated with divorce

Divorce is a legal process, and like any legal process it has its own specific forms of documentation. Keeping track of all this paperwork is an essential part of staying organized during divorce. Your Virginia Beach divorce attorney will appreciate your cooperation in this department.

Some people are naturally talented at staying organized, while others might need a refresher course in the basics. It's best to know beforehand what's expected of you so that you can be prepared.

Below are 4 tips for staying organized during your Virginia divorce:

Leaving your Virginia divorce documents scattered all over your desk at home is a big don't. They can easily become misplaced or end up catching a spill that way.
A 3-ring binder and hole-punch are two of your most valuable tools when you're staying organized after divorce. You can add your divorce documents to it as they come.
When you're preparing a divorce file, you might want to file documents by category, such as child custody, financial, etc.
Keeping a calendar is another way of staying organized during divorce. Your calendar can help you keep track of court dates, appointments with your Virginia Beach divorce attorney, and other important days.

To learn more about making the most of your time with your Virginia Beach divorce attorney, please visit our article library.

Contacting a Virginia Beach Divorce Attorney

Throughout your divorce proceedings, you'll naturally have a lot of questions specific to your circumstances. Get your questions answered by requesting one of our FREE divorce guides for women, or reserving your seat at our monthly divorce seminar - 757-425-5200.

The Virginia Beach divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee are committed to fighting for your rights, assisting in child custody disputes, and advocating that you receive everything you are entitled to and need in order to start your new life.