What Is an Uncontested Divorce in Virginia?

Simply put, an uncontested divorce in Virginia is a divorce where the spouses agree to every aspect of their divorce, or dissolution of marriage. But, marriage can be complicated. So, it’s important for you to become familiar with exactly what you will have to agree to in your divorce case.

For an uncontested divorce in Virginia, the spouses will have to reach agreement in the following areas:

1. Child custody: Will parents share “joint legal custody,” so that they are both legal guardians?
2. Children’s residence: Where will be the children’s official residence?
3. Child support: How much child support will be paid? And to whom?
4. Dividing assets: How will the marriage’s assets be divided? Who gets what? Should some of it be sold, and the proceeds distributed? Who gets the house?
5. Dividing debt: Marriages can be dissolved easier than debt. Who’s going to pay the bills?
6. Alimony: In Virginia, the legal term for alimony is “spousal support.” How much alimony should be paid, if any, and for how long?

Even if your marriage has taken on a certain amount of acrimony, you and your spouse might be able to come to agreement for the benefit of everyone involved. In the end, an uncontested divorce is about putting the past behind you and moving ahead as quickly as possible.

If you think an uncontested divorce might be a possibility, we can help you develop an approach to use in bringing up the topic with your spouse.  Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our Virginia divorce attorneys to discuss your situation and whether your Virginia divorce can be handled as uncontested.