Leesburg Divorce Attorneys

Trusted Divorce Lawyers for Clients in Leesburg, Virginia

Divorce can be an arduous process, full of legal complexities that can be exhausting to consider. At the outset, bringing your marriage to a close may seem intimidating, but you do not have to handle it by yourself. A Leesburg divorce lawyer can provide you with legal advice and representation to help protect your interests.

At Meyer & Bowden, PLLC, our attorneys have decades of experience representing clients in family law matters. We excel at negotiation in contested divorces, working hard to keep clients out of active litigation to save them time and money. However, if it becomes necessary, we can also provide aggressive representation in a full divorce trial.

What Is the Difference Between Marital and Separate Property?

In a Virginia divorce, property is categorized as either marital or separate. Marital property consists of assets and debts acquired during the marriage, even if only one spouse's name is on the title. This includes wages earned, real estate purchased together, retirement contributions made while married, and earnings from a business started during the marriage. The court will divide marital property under the principle of equitable distribution, which aims for a fair allocation but does not always mean a 50-50 split.

Separate property remains with the individual spouse and is not subject to division in a divorce. Common examples include assets owned before marriage, inheritances or gifts received by one spouse alone, and certain personal injury awards. To protect separate property, you may need to provide documentation such as deeds, account statements, or estate planning records. Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements can also clarify which assets will remain separate, reducing uncertainty and potential conflict.

Asset Division in High Net Worth Divorces

Couples with significant assets face unique challenges when dividing complex holdings like businesses, investment portfolios, and multiple real estate properties. Valuing these assets often requires the expertise of appraisers, forensic accountants, and financial analysts. For instance, a privately held business may be valued based on projected earnings, goodwill, and market comparables, while residential or commercial real estate may need current market appraisals and an analysis of rental income.

Retirement accounts, such as 401(k) plans and pensions, typically require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) to transfer a portion of benefits to the non-employee spouse without triggering immediate tax consequences. Stock options and restricted shares demand careful review of vesting schedules and potential tax liabilities. High net worth divorces often result in detailed settlement agreements that outline how each asset will be allocated, provide for tax-efficient transfers, and address debt obligations like margin loans or business liabilities.

Negotiating these terms outside of court can save time and litigation costs, but drafting a comprehensive agreement demands attention to technical details. Our experienced attorneys will coordinate with valuation experts and guide you through structured buy-out provisions.

Divorce for Couples Over 50

Divorce later in life introduces considerations that younger couples seldom face. Retirement assets can represent the bulk of marital wealth, making accurate valuation and division critical to maintaining financial security. Spousal support, or alimony, may be awarded for a longer duration when one spouse cannot reenter the workforce. Factors such as health, earning capacity, and life expectancy play an outsized role in determining support obligations.

Older couples must also plan for health insurance, Medicare enrollment, and potential long–term care needs. If one spouse relied on the other's employer–sponsored benefits, the divorce decree should address continuation of coverage or reimbursement provisions. Social Security benefits earned during the marriage may also be subject to division under federal rules, further complicating the financial landscape. Our attorneys can represent spouses over 50 during a divorce and work toward a favorable outcome that reflects both present and future needs.

Contact a Leesburg, VA Divorce Lawyer

At Meyer & Bowden, PLLC, we understand that divorce after years of marriage can feel overwhelming. You can trust us to protect your interests and help you navigate every decision thoughtfully. Call 703-722-8692 or contact our Leesburg, VA divorce attorneys to schedule a consultation.