As the most stressful event in a person’s life, a divorce can be a very scary experience. You should seek the help of a top Roanoke divorce lawyer to navigate the maze of paperwork and ensure your rights are protected. Divorce is a serious matter, and you should not attempt to handle it on your own as you could face some devastating repercussions. A divorce lawyer is the only way to protect yourself and your family’s future.
Legal separation vs divorce
Before deciding whether to file for a divorce or separate under legal separation, it’s important to understand the differences between the two. Unlike divorce, a legal separation does not end the marriage. Instead, it is a legal agreement between the spouses that governs how they will live separate from one another. In many cases, this agreement includes a clause stating that all property acquired during the Separation will be considered separate property when the time comes to file for divorce.
Virginia divorces come in two different types. The first one, called an absolute divorce, is permanent and allows the divorcing spouse to remarry. The second type, called a limited divorce, does not allow either spouse to remarry, and it does not terminate property claims. It legalizes the separation, provides support, and can merge into an absolute divorce after a certain amount of time.
A divorce lawyer in Roanoke, VA can help you complete the process, including the alimony and child support cases. They can help you navigate the maze of legalities and ensure the best possible result for you. A divorce lawyer is not required for a legal separation or a divorce in Virginia, but it may be helpful if you have children and need to make arrangements for them.
Cost of uncontested divorce
The main cost involved with an uncontested divorce is attorney fees, so choosing the cheapest option isn’t wise. A quality lawyer will represent your best interests and have extensive knowledge of Virginia divorce law. Depending on the assets you want to protect, you may also need the services of a tax expert, which can add to the overall costs. If you’re wondering how much it will cost, here are a few things to keep in mind.
The filing fees for an uncontested divorce in Roanoke, VA can range from $86 to $1,989. Additional filing fees for name changes can be anywhere between $21 and $41. Oftentimes, the parties can reach an agreement on how to divide their assets and custody of children. A lawyer can draft and negotiate the property settlement agreement for you if you’re unsure about what to do.
Uncontested divorces are less expensive than contested ones. The key is to keep good notes, save your questions for one efficient Q&A session, and draft the documents in legal language. Also, be upfront about your budget concerns. Obtain a price range based on the number of hours needed to handle the case. Attorneys are in business to make money, and you should not be the only one concerned about your budget.
Rates of divorce lawyers in roanoke
When you need a divorce lawyer in Roanoke, VA, you need someone with experience and knowledge of the process. At Altizer Law, we help clients in all areas of family law, from establishing custody and visitation agreements to helping modify estate documents. We also help people with criminal charges. Our founding attorney, Brad Thompson, is a former prosecutor. He has nearly thirty years of experience and has tried over a hundred jury trials.
The top Roanoke divorce lawyers take on several roles in the process, from gathering information to representing you in court. Regardless of whether you decide to file for a quick divorce or a long, drawn-out, contentious one, a lawyer will make sure your interests are protected and your settlement is fair. Divorce lawyers will make sure that the settlement you reach with your ex-spouse does not have legal loopholes.
Another good choice in Roanoke is Ayers Law, PLLC. This law firm has multiple attorneys who focus on family law. They also handle contested divorce and separation agreements. They are good at mediation, and they can help you and your partner come to an agreement on important issues. Many people prefer uncontested divorces, which move through the process quickly and without court hearings. It also gives the parties more control over the divorce process. They are not limited by Virginia divorce laws and can work with their clients to reach a customized arrangement.