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About Our Services

Divorce Is Complicated. We Help Make It Manageable.

The divorce process involves legal requirements, court procedures, financial decisions, and (if you have children) parenting arrangements that will shape your family's future. It's a lot to navigate, especially when emotions are running high.

A divorce attorney helps you understand what you're facing, what your options are, and what outcomes are realistic. We handle the legal complexity so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

Whether your divorce is straightforward or contested, whether you're hoping to settle amicably or preparing for a fight, we provide the guidance and representation you need.

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How We Help

Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Every case starts with a conversation. During your divorce lawyer consultation, we listen to your situation, answer your questions, and help you understand the path forward. We explain how Virginia divorce law applies to your circumstances and give you honest assessments of what to expect.

Filing for Divorce

Filing for divorce in Virginia involves specific requirements and procedures. You need to meet residency requirements, establish grounds for divorce, prepare and file the correct documents, and and ensure your spouse is formally and legally notified.

We handle the paperwork and procedural details so your case starts on solid footing. Errors in divorce filing can cause delays, additional costs, or complications down the road. We make sure things are done right the first time.

Negotiating Agreements

Most divorces are resolved through negotiation, not trial. We work to reach fair agreements on property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. When both parties can communicate reasonably, negotiated settlements are usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful than going to court.

Representing You in Court

When negotiation isn't possible, we're prepared to advocate for you in court. We present your case clearly, challenge unfair positions, and fight for outcomes that protect your interests and your children's wellbeing.

Guiding You Through the Process

From start to finish, we keep you informed about what's happening and what comes next. You won't be left wondering about the status of your case or surprised by unexpected developments.

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Types of Divorce in Virginia

In Virginia, divorce is broken into two types:

Uncontested Divorce (Separation Agreement/No Fault Divorce)

An uncontested divorce means you and your spouse have agreed to separate and legally end your marriage through divorce.

The process requires living separate and apart for a specified period of time (6 months to a year, as required by Virginia law), and you both have to agree to resolve the matter without a court — which you can do with an attorney, mediator, financial advisors, or some combination of them.

An uncontested divorce:
• Personal matters remain out of court
• Parties agree to resolve their separation agreement without a judge
• Reach the agreement together, with the help of attorneys and other professionals as required

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Contested Divorce (No Agreement/Fault Divorce)

If you and your spouse cannot agree to the terms of the divorce — or a partner is at fault through committing adultery, cruelty, abandonment, or other factors — the divorce may be contested.

Contested divorces require the local court to get involved and decide on how to end your marriage, divide assets, and dictate terms of child custody. While we try to avoid contested divorces, sometimes doing so is not possible.

A contested divorce:
• Partners cannot agree on terms of the separation
• Court determines the outcome because the parties can’t agree
• Often arises when one party is at fault through adultery, abandonment, or cruelty, but can arise in other circumstances as well

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Alternatives to Court

Going to court isn't your only option. Many couples resolve their divorce through mediation or collaborative processes that keep decisions in their own hands rather than leaving them to a judge.

Divorce Mediation

Mediation involves working with a neutral third party to reach agreements on the issues in your divorce. A divorce mediation lawyer can help you prepare for mediation sessions, advise you on your rights and options, and review any proposed agreements before you sign.

If you want to avoid the adversarial nature of litigation, working with a divorce mediation attorney can help you explore whether mediation is right for your situation.

Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce is a structured process where both spouses and their attorneys commit to resolving issues without going to court. Everyone works together toward a mutually acceptable agreement.

A collaborative divorce lawyer guides you through this process, which often includes other professionals like financial advisors and divorce coaches. The goal is to reach a fair resolution while preserving relationships and minimizing conflict.

If you're interested in a team-based approach, a collaborative divorce attorney can explain how the process works and whether it fits your circumstances.

Which Approach Is Right for You?

The best approach depends on your situation. If you and your spouse communicate well and agree on most issues, mediation or collaboration may work. If there's significant conflict, safety concerns, or a large power imbalance, litigation may be necessary.

We help you evaluate your options and choose the path that makes sense.

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The Divorce Process in Virginia

Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety and allows you to plan. Here's a general overview of how divorce works in Virginia:

Meeting Residency Requirements

At least one spouse must have lived in Virginia for six months before filing.

Establishing Grounds

You need legal grounds for divorce. Most people use no-fault grounds (living separate and apart), but fault grounds are available in certain circumstances.

Filing the Petition

The divorce process formally begins when one spouse files a complaint for divorce with the circuit court.

Serving Your Spouse

Your spouse must be formally notified of the divorce filing. This is called "service of process."

Responding to the Filing

The other spouse has an opportunity to respond to the complaint.

Discovery and Negotiation

Both sides exchange information about finances, property, and other relevant matters. Negotiations happen to try to reach agreements.

Mediation (If Applicable)

Many courts require or encourage mediation to resolve disputed issues.

Trial (If Necessary)

If you can't reach agreement, a judge decides the unresolved issues at trial.

Final Decree

Once all issues are resolved, the court enters a final decree of divorce, officially ending the marriage.

We guide you through each step, handling the legal requirements while keeping you informed about what's happening and what comes next.

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What Gets Decided in a Divorce

A divorce resolves several important issues:

‍Property Division
Virginia is an "equitable distribution" state. Marital property is divided fairly, though not necessarily equally. The court considers factors like each spouse's contributions, the length of the marriage, and each person's financial circumstances.

‍Spousal Support
Also called alimony or maintenance. Courts consider factors like income disparity, length of marriage, and each spouse's ability to support themselves. Spousal support isn't automatic and depends on your specific circumstances.

‍Child Custody
If you have minor children, you'll need to establish legal custody (decision-making authority) and physical custody (where the children live). Virginia courts focus on the best interests of the child.

‍Child Support
Virginia uses guidelines to calculate child support based on both parents' incomes and the custody arrangement. The goal is to ensure children's financial needs are met.

‍Debt Division
Marital debts are divided along with marital assets. Who's responsible for which debts is part of the overall property division.

We help you understand how these issues apply to your situation and advocate for fair outcomes.

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Why Work With Evolution Divorce?

Clear & Flexible Pricing

We offer pricing options designed to give you clarity and control, allowing you to choose the approach that best fits your needs and budget. Depending on your case, we'll help you determine the most suitable pricing option.

Honest, Straightforward Guidance

We tell you the truth about your situation, even when it's not what you want to hear. You deserve to make decisions based on realistic expectations, not false promises.

Skilled Advocate

In negotiations, you need a lawyer who skillfully opens communication pathways. When people talk, solutions come faster, decreasing expenses and helping you get more of what you want.

In court, you need an experienced litigator who can effectively work with other lawyers, handle combativeness, and get your message to the judge.

One Dedicated Team

You won't be handed off to different people throughout your case. Our small team works closely with you from start to finish. When you call, you talk to someone who knows your situation.

Evolution Service Pledge

While no lawyer can guarantee an outcome, at Evolution Divorce, we can guarantee a high level of client service. And if we do not provide that level — good enough to earn your referral to others — we will provide you an opportunity to request a refund up to 25% of the price you have paid to that point.

What Makes the Best Divorce Lawyer?

When people search for the best divorce lawyer, they're really asking: who will handle my case well and treat me right?Look for an attorney who:

Listens before advising.
Your situation is unique. A good lawyer understands your circumstances before recommending a strategy.

Explains things clearly.
Legal jargon doesn't help you. You need information you can actually use.

Gives honest assessments.
Including the parts you might not want to hear.

Has relevant experience.
Virginia family law, local court procedures, cases similar to yours.

Communicates consistently.
You should always know what's happening with your case.

Offers transparent pricing.
No one needs financial surprises on top of divorce stress.

Focuses on resolution.
Not on maximizing conflict or billable hours.

Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce

Do I need a divorce lawyer?

You're not legally required to have one, but divorce involves significant legal, financial, and parenting decisions with long-term consequences. A divorce attorney helps you understand your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and reach fair outcomes. Most people find professional guidance valuable, especially when children or substantial assets are involved.

How long does divorce take in Virginia?

It depends on your situation. Uncontested divorces with no minor children can be finalized relatively quickly after the required separation period. Contested cases take longer, sometimes several months or more. We'll give you realistic expectations based on your circumstances.

What's the difference between contested and uncontested divorce?

In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all issues: property division, support, custody, everything. In a contested divorce, there's disagreement on one or more issues that must be resolved through negotiation or court decision. An uncontested divorce lawyer can help finalize agreed-upon terms efficiently, while contested cases require more extensive representation.

How much does divorce cost?

Costs vary significantly based on complexity and whether your case is contested. We offer transparent pricing options, including Pre-Agreed Pricing for many situations, so you understand the financial commitment before we begin. During your consultation, we'll discuss pricing that fits your case.

Can we use the same lawyer?

No. One attorney cannot represent both spouses because your interests may conflict. However, in an uncontested divorce, one spouse may have an attorney draft the agreement while the other spouse reviews it independently (and may consult their own attorney).

What if my spouse won't agree to divorce?

In Virginia, you can still get divorced even if your spouse doesn't want to. The process may take longer, and you may need to go to court, but one spouse cannot prevent the other from obtaining a divorce.

How is property divided?

Virginia uses "equitable distribution," meaning marital property is divided fairly based on various factors. Fair doesn't always mean equal. The court considers each spouse's contributions, the length of the marriage, each person's financial circumstances, and other relevant factors.

What about the house?

The marital home is part of property division. Options include one spouse buying out the other, selling the home and dividing proceeds, or other arrangements. What makes sense depends on your finances, your children's needs, and other factors.

How does custody get decided?

Virginia courts focus on the best interests of the child. They consider each parent's relationship with the child, ability to meet the child's needs, willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent, and many other factors. Parents can agree on custody arrangements, or the court will decide if they can't agree.

Still have questions?

Schedule a consultation to get your specific questions answered.

Schedule a Consultation

Divorce Lawyer

Divorce Is Complicated. We Help Make It Manageable.

How We Help

Divorce Lawyer Consultation

Filing for Divorce

Negotiating Agreements

Representing You in Court

Guiding You Through the Process

Types of Divorce in Virginia

Uncontested Divorce (Separation Agreement/No Fault Divorce)

Contested Divorce (No Agreement/Fault Divorce)

Alternatives to Court

Divorce Mediation

Collaborative Divorce

Which Approach Is Right for You?

The Divorce Process in Virginia

Meeting Residency Requirements

Establishing Grounds

Filing the Petition

Serving Your Spouse

Responding to the Filing

Discovery and Negotiation

Mediation (If Applicable)

Trial (If Necessary)

Final Decree

What Gets Decided in a Divorce

Why Work With Evolution Divorce?

What Makes the Best Divorce Lawyer?

Divorce Lawyer in Richmond, VA

Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce

Still have questions?

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