Library: Divorce

While issues of child support are frequently resolved under state guidelines, custody and visitation issues can present major problems for parents who are separating from each other, especially when there is a history of substance abuse, mental illness or domestic violence. Even in less troubled situations, the complex emotional dynamic of parent-child relationships and conflicts between parents can make the resolution of custody and visitation issues more difficult. At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our attorneys work...

Divorce is hard on kids—there’s simply no way around it. When parents split up, not only is it disruptive to the child’s world, but it can also violate their sense of security and safety. Because of this, some parents choose to stay together despite being in an unhappy and dysfunctional relationship. They think they can tough it out until the kids are older or even until they are out of the house and that doing...

There is never an excuse for domestic abuse. If abuse is a factor in the decision to end your marriage, you have unique issues to deal with in order to protect yourself and your family. Your first challenge is to ensure the personal safety and security of yourself and your children. At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our attorneys can explain the process of obtaining and enforcing a protective order. This can help provide the breathing space...

Virginia is home to many men and women in the armed services and their families. Like any divorce, there are a number of issues that must be addressed. However, past or present military service can present unique challenges in regard to child custody and visitation, and the division of pensions. Issues such as deployment out of state or overseas, military benefits and federal law all need to be considered when dissolving a military marriage. At MacDowell...

In the process of a divorce, there is a lot to decide and think about. One issue you might not consider right away is the division of any marital debt between you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse. In the state of Virginia, the law follows the concept of “equitable distribution,” meaning that just like property or furniture, your debt is divided equally too. While this sounds simple on the surface, it can actually get quite complex...

OK, so you don’t have a Warhol. But you do have a collection of original art and antiques that are worth a considerable amount of money. Given that the worth of these pieces often depends on the current market and the uncertainty of an auction, how can you equitably divide the value of your collection in a divorce? And what if one of you wants to keep a piece? It is a complicated process that...

At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our Fairfax property division attorneys provide cost-effective solutions to a wide range of asset division problems. We will work hard to help craft an agreement that protects your valuable interests, rather than having a judge decide these issues following extensive litigation. We can help you protect the value of a family business, review the terms of a prenuptial agreement and advise you about the division of marital debts. If you are...

When affluent couples divorce, the problem of property division can be highly complicated. That is why it is critical to work with an attorney who understands the unique issues that arise in these types of cases. At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our divorce attorneys have the experience and sophistication necessary to understand the nature and extent of your marital estate. We can help you benefit from clear guidance on difficult problems concerning asset characterization, property valuation, tax...

At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our alimony lawyers advise clients about their right to receive or obligation to pay spousal support. Our sensible approach to these issues can protect your interests while saving you both time and money. Whether you expect to receive or pay spousal support, or if you question whether the support terms of a prenuptial agreement will be honored, we will review your circumstances and advise you accordingly. Factors That Affect Spousal Maintenance...

At MacDowell Law Group, P.C., our child support lawyers advise clients about their right to receive or obligation to pay child support. We provide a practical approach to these issues that is designed to protect your interests while saving you time and money. If you have children and are going through a divorce or otherwise need help with support issues, speak with us. Please call 571-748-5647 to consult with a legal professional. Child Support Commitments Are Calculated Under...