Virginia Family Law Attorneys Taking on the Toughest Challenges
Fighting for our clients in divorce, custody, and other tough family law cases for more than 25 years
When family problems become legal problems, the stress can seem overwhelming. Your future, the custody of your children, your finances — all can seem to hang in the balance at one time. We understand.
The attorneys at Simmons and Hodge, PLC know what you are going through, because we have decades of experience successfully guiding clients through these issues with knowledge, precision, compassion, and dedication. Whether your case involves marital separation, divorce, child custody, support, or domestic violence, our attorneys know not only how to fight for you in court, but also how to resolve your case out of court when possible.
We also have extensive experience in providing for your family’s future through the preparation of Wills, Trusts, Medical Powers of Attorney, and Estate Planning.
Based in historic Spotsylvania Courthouse, we proudly serve the entire Central Virginia area, including the counties of Spotsylvania, Stafford, King George, Caroline, Louisa and Orange, and the great City of Fredericksburg. So, take the weight off your shoulders, and let us put our experience to work for you.
PROVEN EXPERTISE
Over 80 years of combined legal experience
You've worried enough. Call now and rest easier.
Affirmed by our clients
Consistently receiving praise and appreciation from clients for our dedication, skill, and hard work.
WHAT WE DO
Giving individualized attention to each client
It’s tough enough to deal with a personal legal problem, but it’s even worse when you can’t get in touch with your attorney. There are countless law firms out there, but at Simmons and Hodge, PLC, we give each client the attention they deserve. We are compassionate listeners who understand the complexities and difficulties involved in each case, so our attorneys will develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances. You’ll be informed of everything going on with your case. Moreover, our concentration on family law enables us to stay up to date with the latest legal developments that affect your important matter.
Handling a full range of family law concerns
Our skillful attorneys provide strong advocacy for the following family law challenges:
- Divorce — In Virginia, divorce can be pursued on either fault-based or no-fault grounds. No-fault divorce is typically available after a period of separation: one year if the parties have children, or six months if they have no minor children and have completed a separation agreement. Divorce proceedings address such critical issues as equitable distribution of property, spousal support (alimony), child custody and child support. Even if the parties agree on all terms, strict attention to procedural rules is necessary to avoid complications.
- Military divorce — Dissolution of a marriage when a spouse is a servicemember frequently involves unique considerations due to federal laws. Issues such as residency requirements, division of military retirement benefits and custody during deployments often require special handling. The rights and responsibilities of both the servicemember and their spouse are safeguarded with additional procedures, and timelines may be impacted by deployments or duty assignments.
- Separation agreements — Although Virginia has no formal separation procedure, spouses may enter agreements to resolve such matters as property division, spousal support, custody and child support. Often, the terms of separation agreement will be incorporated into the eventual divorce decree. A well-crafted agreement allows spouses to protect what is most important to them, and can streamline the divorce process by reducing conflict and litigation costs.
- Child custody — Virginia applies a “best interests of the child” standard in custody decisions, evaluating such factors as the child’s needs, the health and ability of each parent, and the child’s preference (depending on their maturity). Courts encourage cooperation between parents in the development of parenting plans. Modification of existing custody orders is possible if there is a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare.
- Child support — Virginia state guidelines set the framework for calculating support based on parental incomes, the number of children and other expenses like health insurance and child care. Modification may be warranted if there is a significant change in financial circumstances. Enforcement mechanisms include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds and contempt proceedings.
- Adoptions — Types of adoptions in Virginia include agency adoptions, stepparent adoptions, parental placement adoptions and adult adoptions. Adoptive parents must meet specific eligibility criteria and comply with procedural safeguards. State law mandates a comprehensive home study to ensure the placement serves the child’s best interests. An adoption creates legal rights and responsibilities identical to those of biological parents.
In addition, we assist Virginians with wills, trusts and estates. We can advise on planning for the orderly distribution of assets, minimization of estate taxes and protection of loved ones. Our attorneys also handle probate and estate administration, and represent clients in estate-related disputes.
OUR TEAM
Meet Our Attorneys
Contact an experienced Virginia family law attorney for a consultation
At Simmons and Hodge, PLC, we are devoted to assisting residents of Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline, Orange, Louisa, and King George Counties in all types of family law matters. Learn how we can help you.
