We Take Family Matters Seriously
At Koger Law Group, we are here to guide your family through tough decisions. Due to the legal complexities and emotional challenges involved with family law issues, it is always best to hire an attorney who will act in your best interests.
From matters concerning your children to situations that involve your partner, we are here to support you and provide your family with reasonable and efficient counsel. We tailor our services and processes to fit your family’s unique needs so you can focus on navigating through these life-changing situations.
If you are having legal challenges with a family law matter, contact Koger Law Group today to schedule a meeting with a qualified attorney who will professionally evaluate your case.
How Do Family Law Attorneys Help Clients?
An experienced family law attorney offers a range of legal services to help clients navigate the court system with confidence.
Some of the essential services that family law attorneys offer clients include:
- Professionally evaluate clients’ legal needs and advise them of their rights and options
- Craft custom legal strategies that provide maximum results
- File all necessary legal documents
- Negotiate with opposing counsel to reach a fair settlement for family law matters, including divorce, spousal and child support, and child custody
- Represent clients in court if an agreement cannot be reached through negotiations and present arguments that withstand legal scrutiny
It is important to note that all family law cases vary, and the methods your attorney may use to support your case will also vary. If you have questions about the benefits of hiring a family law attorney, contact our Richmond family lawyers today so we can address your concerns.
What Legal Services Does Your Law Firm Provide for Clients?
Koger Law Group has extensive experience assisting clients with various family law issues. Our attorneys recognize that dealing with domestic issues independently can take a hard toll on family relationships. Our mission is to help clients achieve positive outcomes for their legal needs, enabling them to resume their lives with confidence.
Some of the practice areas that we serve clients include:
- Child and spousal support
- Child custody and visitation
- Divorce
- Separation agreements
- Pre and post-marital agreements
- Domestic partnerships
- Same-sex marriage
- Guardianship
How Long Should I Wait Before I Hire a Family Law Attorney?
One of the most significant errors that many individuals make is waiting to hire a family law attorney. Due to the sensitive nature of family law issues, many people attempt to resolve problems independently or hope they will resolve themselves. However, most individuals dealing with family law issues quickly realize they need legal help to resolve their problems.
The best course of action is to hire a knowledgeable family law attorney as soon as you realize there is a problem. Generally, most family law matters do not involve criminal defense, except in cases involving domestic violence. Nevertheless, family law cases involve challenging legal matters that require the help of an experienced attorney.
Suppose you are considering a divorce or are involved in disputes regarding child or spousal support. In that case, a lawyer can help facilitate a prompt resolution, allowing you to focus on your family and loved ones. It is never a good idea to unnecessarily delay obtaining legal counsel. Many family issues that reach the court are time-sensitive and require immediate attention. The sooner you hire an attorney, the more quickly they can begin working on your case.
How Long Does the Divorce Process Take in Virginia?
The time it takes a couple to get a divorce in Virginia depends on whether the divorce is uncontested or contested, as well as whether they have minor children. A highly trained divorce lawyer can thoroughly assess the unique facts of the case and determine the most effective legal strategies to pursue.
Uncontested Divorce
Uncontested or no-fault divorce is the most straightforward and quickest way for couples to end their marriage. In an uncontested divorce, the couple agrees to a settlement outside of court regarding their property and matters related to their children, including child support and custody arrangements. Generally, couples that do not have minor children and have a signed separation agreement may be able to divorce in about six months. Even with a signed separation agreement, married couples with children typically must wait at least one year before divorcing.
Contested Divorce
The time frame for a contested divorce is significantly longer than for couples pursuing an uncontested divorce. Because the couple cannot agree on key issues, such as property division, financial support, or child-related matters, the case progresses more slowly through the court system. In most instances, a contested divorce typically takes at least one year to be resolved.
Other factors that affect the time it takes to get a divorce include the willingness of both parties to negotiate and the backlog of other cases in the court calendar.
How Are Marital Assets Divided in Virginia Divorce Cases?
Under Virginia law, marital assets are divided according to an equitable distribution doctrine. However, it is worth noting that equitable distribution in the context of a divorce does not necessarily mean an equal or even division of assets. Instead, if a couple cannot agree on how to divide property acquired during the marriage, the court will do so based on what it believes is fair.
The court will evaluate all marital property, including each spouse’s earnings, property held jointly, and property purchased with marital funds. The judge will also take into consideration any gifts the two spouses have given to each other.
The court will take into consideration several factors when determining property division matters, including:
- The length of the marriage
- The age and health of each spouse
- Each spouse’s monetary and non-monetary contributions to the marriage
- Each spouse’s income and earning potential
- All assets and debts acquired during the marriage
- Any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements that are in place
Although the court will make its decision based on what it deems fair, the final settlement may be unfavorable to one party. Suppose you and your spouse cannot agree on property division. In that case, it is in your best interests to hire a Richmond, Virginia divorce lawyer who can help to negotiate a fair out-of-court settlement that is adequate for your needs.
How Can a Family Law Attorney Help Me With Child Custody Issues?
One of the most contentious family law issues typically revolves around child custody. Although both parents want what is best for their child, it can be easy to let your anger cloud your judgment. Hiring a family law attorney to help you navigate child custody issues is the most effective way to preserve family relationships.
If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody issues, a lawyer will help you resolve them through negotiations or mediation, which has less potential for conflict. During negotiations or mediation, your lawyer can advise you of your legal rights and make suggestions on how to resolve disputes on key issues.
If an out-of-court child custody agreement cannot be reached, your attorney will then prepare to take the case to court, where a judge will decide it. During legal proceedings, your family attorney will present evidence that supports your case and ensure your voice is heard. Additionally, suppose the case involves complex legal issues such as domestic violence, substance abuse, or child abuse. In that case, your lawyer will fight to protect your parental rights to achieve the best outcome for your case.
Any parent who is dealing with child custody issues must never forget that the court will always make a decision based on what it feels is in the child’s best interests. A lawyer is familiar with the factors the court considers and will work hard to ensure you can spend quality time with your child.
Contact Our Virginia Family Law Attorneys Today to Schedule a Consultation
Koger Law Group is a law firm dedicated to helping clients in Central Virginia with their family law needs. Our family lawyers are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to protecting your family’s future.
When you come to us for help, our attorneys will conduct a comprehensive legal review to determine the options that best suit your needs. We communicate in clear, easy-to-understand terms, avoiding complex legal jargon. We never leave you in the dark and ensure that you are promptly informed of any changes or progress made in your case.
If you are facing a family legal issue, contact our Richmond, VA law office at 804-455-8186 today to schedule a consultation.