Burke Divorce Attorney

Compassionate, Experienced Burke Divorce Attorney

In Virginia, the process of divorce is quite nuanced. There are many legal complexities involved in obtaining a divorce, and it is not always straightforward or simple. Divorce can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate, which is why more and more people are seeking legal assistance from an experienced Burke divorce attorney.

Focusing on divorce and separation, the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury is a leading family law firm in Burke, Virginia. Couples are increasingly seeking professional legal assistance to navigate divorce, and for good reason. An experienced Burke divorce attorney at the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury can help ensure that your rights are upheld and your objectives are met. Call us at 703-782-4360 to learn more about how we can help you.

How Can We Help You With Your Burke Divorce?

After spending years handling an array of divorce proceedings, we have perfected our craft. As such, we pride ourselves on the variety and quality of services that we offer to our clients. We have represented clients in divorce mediation, litigation, and throughout the process of separation. Some of the areas that we focus on include:

Every divorce is unique and we have curated our services to meet the needs of our clients. The central mission of our practice is to advocate for our clients with compassion and care, ensuring that their needs are met at every step of the way. We handle every case with dignity and respect, keeping our client’s goals as the central tenet of our work.

How Does Divorce Work In Burke, Virginia?

The process of filing for and obtaining divorce varies from state to state. In Virginia, there are specific requirements that must be met before an individual can file for divorce. First and foremost, at least one spouse must have resided in Virginia for at least six months before filing, according to Virginia Code § 20-97.

Moreover, uncontested divorces operate quite differently from contested divorces. Because they do not involve court proceedings, uncontested divorces are typically easier and faster than contested divorces. In the situation of an uncontested divorce, the divorcing spouses are able to reach an agreement without involving the court. Contested divorces, on the other hand, tend to be longer and more arduous because they require court hearings and, in extreme situations, trial.

It is also important to note that Virginia law provides for two types of divorce, divorce from bed and board and divorce from the bonds of matrimony. The former is a partial divorce, or separation, while the second is an absolute and final legal end to the marriage. Both options work differently under the law. A Burke divorce attorney can better clarify these two forms of divorce and ensure that you select the option that works for you.

How Do I Get Divorce Papers?

In order to file for divorce in Virginia, you or your spouse must meet the residency requirements as well as one of the following:

If there are minor children involved, you and your spouse have been separated for one year prior to filing for divorce
If there are no minor children involved, you and your spouse have been separated for six months prior to filing for divorce

Once you have met both the residency and separation requirements, the divorce is started by filing a complaint with the relevant circuit court in Virginia. The Code of Virginia § 20-96 sets forth that all divorce proceedings, as well as annulments, are handled by the circuit courts. For Burke residents, the Fairfax County Circuit Court is the applicable entity.

What Do I Do When I Get Divorce Papers?

After you file for divorce, you and your spouse will divide property, assets, and parenting time. The time frame of these processes will depend on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. Since they do not require court proceedings, uncontested divorces are processed faster, taking an average of a few weeks to a couple of months. Contested divorces, on the other hand, can take upward of a year and a half.

After you receive your divorce papers, it is advised to prepare your documents and ensure that all necessary personal and financial information is in order. Be sure to gather all relevant documentation, including:

Bank statements
Tax returns
Retirement and pension accounts
Mortgages
Income statements

Having these documents organized and prepared in advance can help save time and energy later on in the process. Moreover, be sure that you have access to all shared online accounts.

Contact A Burke Divorce Attorney at the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury

If you or a loved one is considering divorce, consider contacting a Burke divorce attorney at the Law Office of Afsana Chowdhury for assistance. Leveraging skillful negotiation and expertise in Virginia divorce proceedings, we can help make the process of divorce easier and faster. Call us today at 703-782-4360 to discuss your options and learn how we can advocate for you.