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Divorce Law Assistance in Norfolk, VA; Chesapeake, VA; and the Surrounding Areas

Are you facing a difficult divorce? If you are in Norfolk, VA; Chesapeake, VA; or the surrounding areas, Thomas, Adams & Associates can help! Our experienced and compassionate team of attorneys can guide you through the legal proceedings of divorce law with expertise and understanding. We offer support throughout the entire divorce process to ease your burden during this challenging time.

We understand that divorce is not an easy process, but with our legal help, you can get fair representation in court while ensuring all assets are distributed equitably among both parties. Our specialization in family law ensures that every detail is taken into consideration when making decisions for your case. When it comes to adding value to the lives of clients like you, we have no equal!

Don’t wait any longer—get in contact with our professional team to hire a divorce attorney that has your and your family’s best interests in mind.

Helping You Navigate Your Divorce.

If your marriage continues to deteriorate over time, divorce may be in your family’s best interest. There are a number of reasons that can lead to divorce: spousal abuse, infidelity and contention as well as problems with communication, commitment, compatibility, money, intimacy or addiction.

Whether the divorce is mutual or not, the process can be burdensome, both financially and emotionally. Divorce law can be complex and the dissolution of your marriage can be overwhelming, even without consideration of the many lifestyle changes and unknowns that lie ahead.

With the help of a good divorce attorney, you can manage the legal aspects of your impending divorce more comfortably while conserving energy to plan for your future.

If a divorce is imminent, contact an experienced divorce attorney at Thomas, Adams & Associates, P.C., serving families in Norfolk, Va., and Chesapeake, Va.

We have a great reputation for giving our clients the personal attention and competent legal representation they need and deserve in family law cases involving:

Major Divorce Cases
Serious Custody Cases
Large Support Cases
Separation Agreements

Visitation
Alimony
Large Estate Cases
…and more

We understand that money can be tight during a family crisis. When you call, we will offer you a competitive hourly rate for the full range of legal services we provide. There are no hidden costs or surprises later, and we offer a free initial consultation with a VA divorce attorney. Don’t put this off — call us at 757-491-4141 or use the form below to schedule a visit now.

We have worked with hundreds of families and each one has had a different situation. We understand what works, what doesn’t, and what is in the best interest for your future.

There are many factors the Virginia court system takes into consideration when deciding custody, support and property division. Let us help you save substantial money, stress and time. We will file the legal documents, do the research, attend all court hearings, and help you understand the Virginia legal system and your options.

For personal attention, compassionate understanding, and aggressive representation, call Thomas, Adams & Associates, P.C. now, or use the form below to schedule a free consultation with an attorney.

Thinking about divorce?

Don’t try to figure out the Virginia laws by yourself. Schedule a Free No-Obligation Consultation With an Attorney Now!

Frequently Asked Questions: Divorce Attorney Norfolk, VA

If you are facing divorce in Norfolk, VA, you likely have questions and not many clear answers. Our attorneys at Thomas, Adams & Associates, P.C. have addressed the most common ones below. If your situation is not covered here, call us at
757-491-4141 for a free consultation.

What’s the difference between an uncontested and contested divorce?

An uncontested divorce means both spouses have agreed on all issues, including property division, custody, visitation, and support. A contested divorce occurs when the parties disagree on one or more of those issues — equitable distribution, child custody or visitation, or spousal support — and a court must resolve the dispute. Contested cases take longer and cost more. If there is any chance of reaching an agreement, our attorneys will work to get you there. When that is not possible, we pursue every legal avenue aggressively on your behalf.

How Long Do You Have to Be Separated Before Filing for Divorce in Virginia?

No. Virginia law does allow spouses to live separate and apart under the same roof, but the rules are strict. You must stop functioning as a married couple — no shared meals, no shared finances, no marital intimacy — and at least one spouse must have communicated a clear, permanent intent to end the marriage. Courts scrutinize same-residence separation claims closely. We strongly recommend documenting your separation date in writing, whether by email, text, or a signed memorandum. Our team can advise you on what evidence will hold up if the date is ever challenged.

Do I Have to Move Out of the House to Be "Separated" in Virginia?

Virginia law requires that spouses live “separate and apart” for a specific period before a no-fault divorce can be granted. If you have no minor children and you have signed a written separation agreement, that period is six months. If you have minor children, or no signed agreement, the required separation period is one year. You do not need to file any paperwork to begin the separation period — it starts when at least one spouse intends the marriage to be permanently over and the parties begin living apart. Getting the date of separation documented correctly matters: it affects property division, support calculations, and your filing timeline.

Do you need to have a document to be separated?

No. You need an intention to live apart from your spouse permanently and separately. Note that living separately may mean at opposite ends of the house.

Do you need to have a separation agreement if you have no assets or have been married for a very short time?

It is highly recommended.

What Issues Does a Norfolk, VA Divorce Attorney Handle?

At Thomas, Adams & Associates, P.C., our divorce attorneys serving Norfolk handle the full range of family law matters, including equitable distribution of marital property and debt, child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, and separation agreements. Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning the court divides marital property fairly — not necessarily equally. Fault (such as adultery or desertion) can affect both spousal support awards and property division outcomes under Virginia law. Having an attorney who understands how Norfolk circuit court weighs those factors is critical to protecting your interests.

Does Virginia Recognize Fault in Divorce, and Does It Matter?

Yes. Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds for divorce. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, willful desertion, and felony conviction. Proving fault can directly impact the outcome of your case: adultery can bar the offending spouse from receiving spousal support, and fault is a statutory factor in the equitable distribution of marital property. If fault is relevant to your situation, our attorneys know how to document and present it effectively — and how to defend against a fault allegation made against you.

Is a Free Consultation Available for Divorce Cases in Norfolk, VA?

Yes. We offer a free initial consultation for prospective clients in Norfolk, VA and throughout southeastern Virginia. There are no hidden costs to get started, and our fees are competitive hourly rates with no surprises. To schedule your consultation, call us at 757-491-4141, email thomasandadams@talawgroup.com, or use the contact form on our website. You can also find us at Thomas, Adams & Associates on Google Maps.