Establishing paternity means accepting the rights and responsibilities that come with being a father in Virginia. Not only do you secure your position in your child’s life, but you also accept the legal and financial responsibilities that come with raising a child. If you’re married and your name is on your child’s birth certificate, Virginia law automatically presumes you are the father. However, for fathers who Read More

Protective orders serve a critical role in Virginia family law: to protect. They are not meant to be weaponized against an ex or an individual who you believe deserves punishment. These orders keep you safe by ensuring that an individual is barred from being near you, your home, your family, and potentially other locations you frequent after genuine allegations of violence or other alarming behaviors. While Read More

The legal process of separating from your partner or spouse in Virginia can be a headache after making the difficult decision to end your relationship. You’re forced to pick up the pieces of the life you’ve lived with this person and chart a path toward a new one. When things get contentious, it can feel frustrating and isolating. We know because we’ve been there, standing beside Virginians and their families through Read More

Every family is unique, and sometimes, despite the best intentions, a marriage may come to an end. No matter the specific circumstances, the law in Virginia dictates when and how you can file for divorce, and knowing these ahead of conflict can give you the clarity needed to make decisions about your future. Virginia law provides clear guidelines on when to seek a divorce, whether based on separation or fault, which Read More

The discussion about whether Virginia's spousal support guidelines should be expanded is gaining attention, especially in light of significant economic changes and shifts in the cost of living. For instance, the cost of housing has increased by 7.32% in the past year, making it more difficult for individuals to maintain their standard of living after a divorce. Currently, Virginia employs a guideline formula to Read More

Winning a child relocation case in Virginia is often an uphill battle, especially when it comes to modifying an existing custody order. The court demands proof of the relocation's independent benefit to the child, not just the parent seeking to move to improve their own circumstances. It’s crucial to understand that the court’s primary concern is the well-being and best interests of the child rather than the Read More

In the heart of every Virginia family who is facing legal challenges lies a quest for clarity and resolution for all the loved ones involved. The law offers a structured path through these difficult times, especially when the welfare of children hangs in the balance. Understanding jurisdictional specifics and the importance of timely filings provides a clear path forward and provides direction amidst the initially Read More

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

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

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