Information about family law matters including Divorce, Grounds for divorce, Same Sex Divorce, Military Divorce, Uncontested Divorce, Litigation vs. Alternative Dispute Resolution, Post-Divorce Enforcement, Modification of Orders and Appeals, Spousal Support, Child Custody Support and Visitation, Property Division, Alimony and Spousal Support, Marital Agreements, International Family Law and Domestic Violence and Protective Orders

Advice from Divorce Attorney – How to Protect Your Business During a Divorce

Negotiating Business Ownership in Divorce
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels Couples typically do not enter into marriage thinking about divorce, but, unfortunately, not planning for the possibility can oftentimes have serious consequences. Divorces can be difficult, and even more complex when business assets are at stake. For many business owners, the business itself is the individual’s most valuable asset. Business owners
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What is Equitable Distribution in Virginia?

What is Equitable Distribution in Virginia?
In Virginia, in the event of a divorce, courts follow the equitable distribution method of dividing property. Under equitable distribution, courts will divide property “equitably,” or fairly, between spouses, but not necessarily evenly. Often, courts decide on a 50/50 distribution, but may choose a different distribution after considering the relevant factors. The court may achieve
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What is the Discovery Process in Virginia Family Law Cases?

What is the Discovery Process in Virginia Family Law Cases?
Discovery is the formal process of exchanging information between parties about the witnesses and evidence they’ll present at trial. In Virginia, discovery in family law cases, such as divorce or child custody proceedings, may include interrogatories, requests for production of documents, requests for admissions, depositions, and subpoenas. The purpose of these tools is for parties
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Video: Spousal Support and Alimony in Virginia Divorce, Part 2

Video 2 of 2 about Spousal Support in Virginia Divorce
This is a continuation from the first video in this pair about spousal support and alimony in Virginia. There are 3 classifications of spousal support in Virginia divorces: 1. Support for an undefined period of time 2. Support for a defined period of time 3. Lump sum payment Spousal support will end upon the death
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Video: Spousal Support in Virginia, Part 1 of 2

Video 1 on Virginia Alimony and Spousal Support
This is the first part of a 2-part video series on spousal support in Virginia by Joanna Foard, Family and Divorce Attorney in McLean, VA. Very common questions we hear are “will I have to pay support?” Or, “Am I eligible to receive support?” Spousal support obligations are governed by statute in Virginia, and take
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Video: Overview of Child Support in Virginia

Video introduces basic concepts of child support in Virginia divorce
Virginia uses a child support calculator that factors in both parents income, the child care and other costs, are put in to generate the child support financial obligation. Child support typically ends at the minor child’s 19th birthday, although many other circumstances and agreements can dictate different terms.  
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Video: Virginia Divorce Attorney Joanna Foard on Mediation

Video Explaining Mediation in Divorce in Virginia
Divorce cases often settle in a process called Mediation. This video contains a brief overview of mediation as a type of alternative dispute resolution for divorce in Virginia that can avoid the stress and much of the cost of a trial in court. Learn more about mediation and uncontested divorce here: https://www.generalcounsellaw.com/practice-areas-family-law-divorce-uncontested-divorce      
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Video: Overview of Grounds for Divorce in Virginia

Video explaining grounds for divorce in Virginia
Overview of Grounds for Filing for Divorce in Virginnia including separation periods that depend on your circumstances, for instance if you have minor children together, or can agree on an “uncontested” divorce. Find more detailed information on this page about the Grounds for Divorce.
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Video: Virginia Attorney Joanna Foard on Equitable Distribution

Video explaining what Equitable Distribution means in Virginia Divorce
A brief overview of equitable distribution of assets in divorce in Virginia. Equitable distribution is different than “equal” distribution which is used in other states. There are 3 classifications of property that need to be considered: marital property, separate property, and hybrid property. Check with an attorney before signing any agreements on assets and debts.
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Family Law Financial Issues: A Webinar for Financial, Tax, and Accounting Professionals

Family Law Financial Issues: A Webinar for Financial, Tax, and Accounting Professionals
Joanna Foard, Senior Counsel, Family and Marital Law Legal information for accountants, financial advisors, and other professionals involved in the handling of finance in Virginia divorces.      
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Answers to 20 Common Questions About Divorce in Virginia

Webinar answering 20 common questions about divorce in Virginia
Joanna Foard, Senior Counsel, Family and Marital Law Joanna answers 20 of the most common questions have for her related to divorce in this one-hour webinar.  
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How to Discuss the Topic of Divorce with your Spouse

Divorces can be complicated and difficult and the idea of discussing divorce with your spouse may seem overwhelming. Having fully thought through the matter beforehand, being confident in the decision, and being prepared for the conversation can help make discussing divorce a little easier. Below are some tips to consider before broaching the subject with
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What Does the Court Consider When Making Custody or Visitation Decisions?

When making custody or visitation decisions, courts will determine what is in the best interests of the child, based on multiple factors set out in the Virginia Code. Virginia law favors custody and visitation arrangements that allow both parents to be involved in the lives of their children. Child Custody In Virginia there are two
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Ask General Counsel: How to get divorced in Virginia?

Guide to Divorce in Virginia
Published by Ask General Counsel on InsideNova, 3/9/2021 Getting divorced is no fun. If you have kids, it is worse. Husband or wife, young or old, talk to your friends who have gotten divorced and you will hear horror stories. But, you might also hear a few individuals jokingly say, “why is divorce so expensive.
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10 Things to Know About Getting Divorced in Virginia

The idea of filing for divorce may be overwhelming. Naturally, people may worry about finances, children, and where to live. On top of that, the actual process of filing for divorce may seem daunting. The process itself doesn’t always need to be complicated. Additionally, consulting a family law attorney may also help prepare individuals for
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What to do After You’ve Been Served with Divorce Paperwork

Whether you saw it coming or felt blindsided, being served with divorce paperwork can be the start of a difficult road. The divorce process can be complex and may seem overwhelming. If you’re not sure what to do next, the below list may provide some helpful guidance. Consult with a Family Law Attorney One of
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Joanna Foard Joins General Counsel, P.C. to Lead Family Law Practice

Virginia Family Law Attorney Joanna Foard
General Counsel, P.C. is pleased to announce that we have convinced Joanna M. Foard  to relocate from sunny and warm Florida to join our legal team to build and lead a family law practice. As recently awarded by the Orlando Family Magazine (from where she recently relocated), she is an AWESOME ATTORNEY in the family law category.  Her 120 (and
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Understanding Parental Rights for Unmarried Parents in Virginia

While establishing parental rights for married parents is usually straightforward, establishing rights of unmarried parents is not as clear cut. If you’re an unmarried parent in Virginia and are interested in establishing your child custody, visitation, or support rights, you should consult with an experienced family law attorney who can help you protect your rights.
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