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Dividing Lives and Assets After Divorce

Dealing with a divorce in Virginia means facing the tough task of splitting up assets and debts. It's not just about the money or property; it's about everything you've built and shared together. Virginia law draws a clear line between what's considered marital property and what's separate, impacting how everything gets divided. Understanding this difference–and all the exceptions that come with it–is crucial for Read More

Marital vs. Separate Assets: Understanding Property Division

Divorce is difficult even in the best of times, but when it comes to the division of assets and debts, critical and often contentious issues arise. The crux of this legal process hinges on a fundamental distinction: the classification of each asset and debt as either marital or separate. This distinction is not merely a procedural formality but a decisive factor that profoundly influences the financial outcomes of a Read More

Virginia Legislature Solidifies the Role and Standing of a Guardian ad Litem

The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) serves an important role in the protection of Virginia children, especially in cases marked by domestic violence. At Rinehart Bryant, we understand the importance of these appointments, which are dedicated to serving the child’s best interests above all else. We previously defined the role of a GAL which is often beyond the understanding of Virginia families that were previously unaware of Read More

At Rinehart Bryant, We Help You Like Family Would

Family law is a diverse, challenging area of law. What’s more important than family? In child custody or child support cases, what could possibly be more important than your child? We see this each and every day as we help families in Virginia with compassion and integrity. You see our mantra right on our home page: “We help you like family would.” It’s something we take pride in as we take on cases and face families Read More

Understanding the Complex Nature of Domestic Assault Allegations

Domestic violence is a grave issue that affects many families across the nation, leaving emotional and physical scars that can last a lifetime. Assaulting a family member is unacceptable, regardless of the circumstances, and the law comes down hard on those found guilty of such actions. Unfortunately, there are those who will levy accusations of domestic violence against a partner or former partner in order to gain Read More

How Virginia Protective Orders Keep You Safe

Nobody should ever feel so unsafe in their own spaces that they have to seek out legal protection. Unfortunately, we know firsthand that some relationships (even one-sided relationships) become unsafe or even turn violent. Protective orders are a legal tool to further fortify your personal safety and create significant legal ramifications for anyone who violates them. We’ve previously talked about the types of Read More

Your Divorce or Separation Doesn’t Have to Get Ugly

At Rinehart Bryant, we have seen divorce from every angle. We’ve seen the knock-down-drag-out cases where neither side budges, just as we’ve seen the cases where both sides come to an amicable agreement to move on. All parties involved prefer and benefit from the latter more so than the former. A Virginia divorce doesn’t have to get ugly. You both had a reason to get married from the beginning, so why not try one Read More

How Familial Relationships Are Impacted by the Virginia Adoption Process

Last month, we discussed why Virginia stepparents should consider formalizing their parental rights through the adoption process. Doing so eliminates legal barriers and protects your parental rights should your marriage falter. Adoption impacts more than just the adopting parent(s) and their children, however. Familial relationships with both the “former” family members who have had their rights terminated and with Read More

Why Virginia Stepparents Should Consider Legal Adoption Today

There is no one way to grow your family. Ultimately, what matters is the love and dedication we can give to one another in the home. As a stepparent, the love you give can be just as much, if not more, than that of a biological parent. When you assume the role of stepparent, you take on the responsibility any other parent would but you don’t automatically receive the same rights as a biological parent. This is Read More

The Termination of Parental Rights in Virginia

Parental rights are a delicate issue and the duties that come with being a parent require dedication. This is precisely why any legal attempt to terminate parental rights in Virginia must be taken seriously. Generally, these requests come from the Department of Social Services who want to terminate a parent’s rights for allegedly neglecting those duties. When a parent neglects their child, or becomes severely Read More