Herndon, VA Divorce Lawyers

Reliable Divorce Attorneys for Clients in Herndon

A divorce should be handled with care. When your property or future finances are on the line, you need to make sure that you can effectively advocate for your own interests. A Herndon divorce lawyer can provide you with critical insights and advocacy, arming you with knowledge so that you can negotiate with confidence.

If you are looking for a knowledgeable family law firm that you can rely on for strong advocacy, turn to Meyer & Bowden, PLLC. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling complex, contested divorces with major assets at stake. We will work with you to resolve your divorce as efficiently as possible, excelling at both negotiation and litigation when necessary.

Dividing Property in Your Virginia Divorce

In Virginia, the courts adhere to the principle of equitable distribution, where marital assets and debts are divided fairly. Note that "fair" does not always translate to a 50/50 split between the spouses. The judge will consider factors such as each spouse's contribution to the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party when determining how to allocate your home, vehicles, and other marital property.

Rather than leaving these decisions to a judge, many couples find that negotiating a settlement agreement offers greater control and certainty. A well-crafted agreement lets you decide which assets to keep, how to manage debt, and how to divide personal property in a way that reflects your priorities. Settlement agreements can also address spousal support and retirement assets, so you will know where you stand long before a hearing date.

Entering into a settlement agreement requires thorough documentation and clear communication. You will need to list every significant asset and liability, appraise property values, and anticipate future needs, such as the cost of maintaining separate households. Enlisting an attorney early in the process can ensure that your interests are protected and that your agreement complies with Virginia law.

When Is Spousal Support Awarded in Virginia Divorces?

Spousal support, often called alimony, is not automatic in every Virginia divorce. The court will award support when one spouse lacks the financial resources to meet reasonable needs or when a significant disparity in income exists. Factors include the standard of living established during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, each spouse's age and health, and the contributions—both financial and non-financial—that each spouse made to the marriage.

A settlement agreement provides an opportunity to tailor spousal support to your unique circumstances. You can negotiate the amount, duration, and conditions of support payments, such as modifications if one spouse pursues additional education or employment. By defining these terms in writing, you reduce the risk of future disputes and create a roadmap for financial stability. An attorney can help you assess your rights and obligations and draft a support provision that reflects both your immediate needs and long-term goals.

What Happens to Retirement Assets in a Divorce?

Retirement assets—such as 401(k) plans, IRAs, and pension benefits—often represent a significant portion of marital wealth. Valuing these accounts requires careful calculation of contributions, earnings, and the marital portion earned during the marriage.

To divide retirement benefits without incurring immediate tax penalties, you may need a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) for employer-sponsored plans or an equivalent order for public pensions. A QDRO authorizes plan administrators to transfer a portion of the benefits directly to the non-employee spouse.

Navigating this process without professional help can lead to costly mistakes like unintended tax liabilities. Our attorneys will coordinate with actuaries and plan administrators to protect your share of retirement savings and ensure that the transfer complies with every technical requirement.

Meet With a Herndon, Virginia Divorce Attorney

At Meyer & Bowden, PLLC, our team will listen attentively to your concerns and explain your rights under Virginia law. Call 703-722-8692 or contact our Herndon, VA divorce attorneys to discuss your case today.