Family Law FAQ
Client Reviews
“Not knowing the first thing about hiring an attorney for an unexpected personal situation, a friend referred me to William Conners. From the very beginning, I felt very confident he would make sure that all negotiations and decisions made would benefit me and my daughter. Will has been very professional and caring and I cannot thank him enough.”
A. S.” William Conners represented me in my divorce which was complicated by the fact that my ex-wife and I owned several successful businesses together. I have used many attorneys in the past. Will’s performance was exemplary and many, many steps ahead in legal skill, strategy, preparation and sophistication. My goals were more than met (and then some) and I ended up with the businesses! I can wholeheartedly recommend him.”
D.R.“I was mired in a contentious divorce that had spiraled out of control through nightmarish claims that were chilling in their seriousness. While struggling to deal with the emotional turmoil of a marriage that was over, I was facing bleak options that realistically included losing my job, my children, and even my freedom. Through Mr. Conners’ skilled counsel I came through the nightmare with my family and my future intact – defeating the false charges, successfully resolving the marital dispute, and keeping custody of my children. I have no doubt that without his expert handling of my case things would have turned out very differently indeed, and for that I am forever grateful. Thank you for giving me back my future!”
D. G.“A few of the initial things that impressed me about Will and his staff were their accessibility, promptness in responding to my requests and thorough explanation of the answers to my questions. I appreciated Will’s approach to giving me options and recommendations, and then he let me have a say in the decisions regarding the direction of my divorce case. Throughout the process, Will’s priorities remained focused on preparing my case to win in court if a fair settlement could not be reached and minimizing financial consequences without expensive legal posturing. He was my expert legal counsel and a part-time coach that knew how to motivate me and help me get through it. Will and his staff genuinely cared about the emotional and financial toll that the divorce was exacting on me. Without hesitation, I recommend William Conners for his expertise in Family Law matters and his compassion for the person he represents.”
C.K.“My divorce featured all the most difficult aspects including a vindictive spouse willing to do and say anything to destroy me and exclude my role in our children’s lives. No matter how difficult the situation though, Will Conners provided devoted and professional representation. He took the time and interest to understand my dynamic and craft a strategy that unveiled my spouses’ false vendetta, preserved the relationship between me and my children and protected my financial interests. I count myself fortunate to have had Will as my attorney and wholeheartedly recommend him.”
P.B.“I came to see William R.F. Conners for a divorce and to work out custody issues for my 5 year old son. I was very impressed with my first and subsequent visits to see Mr. Conners. I always felt that kindness was a given, my case was given the attention and professionalism it deserved, with particular emphasis on the welfare of my son and the staff was always courteous and helpful. Mr. Conners worked very hard on my case and always returned my calls in a timely manner. I highly recommend William R.F. Conners to anyone who needs a lawyer who makes you feel like your case is the most important one that he has.”
C.O.“As a commercial airplane pilot, a clean driving record is essential to my career. When I was charged by a Virginia state trooper with misdemeanor Reckless Driving by speed on radar (90 mph in a 55 mph zone), I was facing potential jail time, huge fines and a suspension of my privilege to drive. If convicted, I would have had to report the conviction to the FAA and faced potential suspension of my pilot’s license. The stakes were high and I turned to Attorney William Conners for help. Attorney Conners used his knowledge of traffic law and regulations to fight for me at trial and we won with the charge being totally DISMISSED without my even having to testify! If you need legal representation for a serious traffic charge, call Attorney Conners and experience what it really means to have someone on your side.”
L.A.“Charged with a clear “no win” 3rd Felony DUI, I was facing a dark future. I was destined to be a felon with no right to drive for 10 years and a jail sentence of 6 months to 5 years! Add my life threatening health problems and the situation could not have been worse. However, my prayers were answered and Attorney Will Conners succeeded in getting the charge greatly reduced with minimal consequences. I served less than 1 day in jail after my court hearing which I consider a miracle. I am so grateful for Will’s intelligence, loyalty and kindness. He made a profound difference in my life and I will never forget what he did to help me.”
S.A.“I am extremely pleased that I chose William R. F. Conners as my attorney for my criminal case. After interviewing several Loudoun County attorneys, I found Mr. Conner’s fee to be by far the best, his personality to be friendly, and his accessibility to be superior. Most of all, Mr. Conners went above and beyond what I expected by putting in numerous unexpected hours and doing an astounding job arguing against the prosecutor. As a result of his hard work and courtroom savvy, my charge was reduced beyond what was expected. I highly recommend William Conners for any of your legal needs.”
C. P.“After I was involved in a terrible car accident, I had no idea what to do. How do I handle the insurance questions, medical bills, lost time from work? Knowing I couldn’t, and shouldn’t, take this task on myself, I found Mr. Conners law firm thru an internet search. Shortly after completing the on line questionnaire from his website, I received a phone call from Mr. Conners. He was very polite, offered to meet and discuss my case. At the first meeting he made me feel comfortable. Will was always very prompt to answer any questions I had, both email and when I called the office; we even talked on the weekends. I had total faith that he had my best interest in making decisions and recommendations needed to resolve my case. I would recommend his services to any of my friends and family. “
T.M.“As recent immigrants to the U.S. we have been completely unprepared for dealing with the consequences of obvious negligence my wife encountered during one fateful visit to her new OB/GYN doctor. It was only due to the timely interference of more competent physicians and sheer luck we have been able to avoid permanent damage to her health. On our friends’ recommendation we asked the “Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C” to take up our personal injury suit, and through all the stages the firm provided us with the top-rate legal advice. In the end it was solely thanks to their persistence and professionalism that we have been able to arrive to a mutually acceptable settlement of our case. Our special kudos go to Mr. William Conners for his sharp legal acumen and personal dedication.”
A.C. & I.C.“The injuries I suffered in a car crash were severe and permanent. The extent to which Will prepared my case was extraordinary. Will Conners is the lawyer to call if you have been involved in a motor vehicle collision and suffered personal injury.”
W.E.“How do you thank someone who took a very frustrating situation and turned it into success! Even after being threatened with a “Contempt of Court” citation my ex-husband stopped support payments. I was told I could garnish his social security payments but that led to one phone call after another to government offices and no solution. I finally found Will and he told me to stop worrying that he would take care of everything. He did just that by following through and taking my ex to court. After back-and-forth coversations I received all of my past due support payments plus attorney’s fees and court costs without going before a judge. There aren’t enough thanks or praise for such a dedicated and caring attorney.”
D.R.“Will handled my family law case in the 2009-2011 time frame, and was instrumental in helping me achieve a desired result – and avoiding costly litigation. He was very familiar with law specifically applicable to my case, and was highly familiar with the opposing counsels tactics & tendencies. Will managed my case efficieintly and also helped me to do much of my own documentation (hence saving costs). I would be happy to recommend him in the area of family law. He’s a highly ethical counselor, with excellent knowledge of applicable law to divorce cases, and provided me good guidance on my case. Highly recommend.”
J. C.“Nowadays, it is somewhat of a challenge to go through life without the need of an attorney. Should the need arise for a competent attorney to handle one’s legal affairs, I strongly recommend Will Conners. Will has handled a few of our family cases, including personal injury, family law and business transactions. His competency level in handling our cases was above and beyond any other attorney’s I have seen. Will has an extremely keen eye for details and always puts the client’s interest on a priority level. In a nutshell, Will is THE attorney our family turns to when any need arises for legal advice or representation. I would highly recommend Will. In my humble opinion, he is the best!”
A. H.“I hired Will to represent me in a difficult divorce case. He did an absolute excellent job making sure my interests were looked after. It was a difficult time for me with an wife that had some personal issues. In the end Will made sure I did what needed to be done to protect myself but showed compassion for the woman I was divorcing without ever sacrificing my personal interests. I would employ his services again for any legal issues, which I hope there will be none, in a heartbeat!!! Rating would be 4.5 “
K.A.“Attorney Will Connors helped me in filing an accident lawsuit against a drunk driver. Although it took a while for Will and his staff to reach the settlement which I desired, they were with me and my case every step of the way, keeping me fully informed and in the loop on every step of the process. They were most professional in every way, and I am one hundred percent pleased at having chosen Will to be my attorney on this issue. I would recommend Will and his firm without reservation.”
T.P.“ Will has been a pleasure to work with during a difficult child custody battle. He has been almost always available, always on top of circumstances, provided very good counsel, quickly assimilated my issues without excessive dialogue and exhibited great flexibility under changing circumstances. While legal services don’t come cheap, his ability to quickly comprehend my issues probably netted a savings.”
J.A.“Will Conners has been my lawyer for several years and has guided me through some difficult family law situations that occurred as a result of a divorce. His patience and ability to schedule and meet appointments and court appearances have been amazing. He was even able to formulate a plan to handle the final details of my case which is proving to be the best course of action. He has always been there for me when I needed him.”
D.A.
V.M.I hired Will to represent me in an arduous divorce case knotted with a complicated financial scenario, and troublesome spousal support battle. Will and his staff’s unending commitment, and patience quickly sorted through my retired military and executive careers, disabled veteran entitlements, and the best interest of the children amidst an emotionally overbearing ex-spouse. My case rapidly spiraled from separation to divorce in under one year. His steadfast professionalism and goodness guided me through a toxic situation that protects both my finances and the children. I can’t thank Will and his staff enough.Will represented me in a high conflict, contentious divorce / custody case that lasted several years due to multiple continuances. I would highly recommend him and his firm. Will is an excellent trial attorney, experienced with the local judges, and highly knowledgeable. I had difficult custody issues and Will’s recommendations were spot on and made a huge difference with the judge ultimately awarding me the majority of what I was seeking. Will is well respected in the legal community and I would not hesitate to use him again. When I was first starting the litigation process, I met with several local attorneys and am very thankful that I choose to go with Will and his firm.
A. Y.I have been represented by this law firm for 2 years now and I have nothing but good things to say about it. I have been so pleased with how I have been treated not only by Will, but by everyone I have worked with at the firm. The communication is top notch, timely, and they make me feel valued and heard. Will also put me in contact with a wonderful estate attorney to handle my affairs. I would very highly recommend this law firm to anyone looking for an attorney that is clear, to the point, and has your back. Very happy with my choice!
J. S.I have had Will as an attorney several times for the past 13 years, as well as recommending him to friends in need of strong legal representation. Will and his associates are friendly, empathetic, honest and quite amazing at what they do. No matter the possibility of serious repercussions, having Will and his team on my side has always given me peace of mind; because I know I have the best of the best.
J. H.Will Connors is the best of the best. He represented me in the Fairfax County [Circuit] Court and was absolutely phenomenal. His legal acumen was head and shoulders above the opposing counsel and the judge took notice of how well he argued and quoted the legal jurisdiction. He is my attorney for life. He has a fire in him and takes your case personally as if it is his own.
S. A.William Conners represented me as defense counsel in a contentious family law case against an aggressive Fairfax attorney and an even more aggressive, litigious, and vindictive ex-spouse. This review is meant to be helpful for prospective clients, so here is my candid assessment of what you will get with Mr. Conners:
– A top notch legal professional who is about as knowledgeable about family law as I’ve ever seen. Anywhere.
– He will take your case very seriously; he will sit with you to formulate the most effective legal strategy and he will be direct and honest about setting realistic expectations.
– He is one of the most efficient attorney’s out there; he will work on preparing your case professionally and coherently.
– He is passionate about the law and his profession: He cares about your case as if it’s his own.
– Unlike many lawyers out there, he is not out to run up the hours and drain your wallet.
– His level of preparation before trial is superb. Going to trial is always stressful, but you go into trial feeling confident knowing that you have an attorney who is thoroughly prepared for your case and positioned to win.
– He’s is very responsive; unless he’s tied up in court he responds to emails within hours (or less).In the court room:
– At trial, he’s focused on one thing and one thing only: Winning your case.
– He has absolute command of the court room and respect of the judge.
– I was absolutely astounded by the professionalism and court room acumen demonstrated by Mr. Conners at my trial.
– His vast knowledge of the family law enables him to make very succinct and clear legal arguments in support of his client’s case.
– His vast knowledge of family law also enables him to effectively discredit opposing counsel’s arguments that are not based on fact or law.
– His cross-examination of witnesses is on-point and quickly exposes their weaknesses.
– Like a legal maestro, his delivery of arguments is articulate, factual, and convincing.Summary: If you have a challenging family law case and you are looking for the best family attorney you can get, Mr. Conners has certainly earned that title.
N.
Notice: The client quotations above are not to be construed to guarantee or predict a similar result in any future case undertaken by any attorney of the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C. Each case result depends upon a variety of factors unique to each case and client.
Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C.- Family Law Information
Leesburg or Loudoun divorce, child custody, child or spousal support case? We can help! Read below for free legal info and FAQs for divorce and other family law issues.
Phone: 703-777-6106 | Fax: 703.777.0015 | E-Mail
Divorce, child custody and visitation, child support and spousal support disputes can be financially and emotionally stressful and life altering. The decisions you make today (including who will be your lawyer) will affect you and your family well into the future.
The right law firm and lawyer can make the difference.
Click here and read what just a few clients say about us.
You have many questions. We have the answers. After reading the FAQs below, contact the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C. , to arrange a Family Law consultation with Attorney William R.F. Conners and/or other experienced Family Law attorneys affiliated with the Firm to learn more and preserve your rights.
Divorce in Virginia FAQS
(Q) What are the types of divorce in Virginia?
(A) There are two types of divorces in Virginia. The first is called “a mensa et thoro” (divorce from the bed and board). Such a divorce is a qualified divorce in that legal separation is provided but the parties may not remarry during the term of this qualified divorce. The second type of divorce is called “a vinculo matrimonii” (divorce from the bonds of marriage). This type of divorce is the most common type of divorce and is an absolute divorce-and as such serves as the model for the following FAQs.
(Q) What are the required “grounds” for divorce awarded on fault?
(A) There are many grounds that if present, in a marital relationship, may permit the granting of a divorce. Some grounds include: Willful desertion or abandonment, cruelty, adultery and other sexually related acts, or conviction of felony. However, there are “defenses” that may be raised by the offending spouse to the aforementioned grounds.
(Q) Is there a no fault basis to permit the award of an absolute divorce?
(A) Yes, Virginia permits a “no fault” divorce. Certain requirements must be met in order to receive a divorce on that basis. The parties must demonstrate that they have lived apart continuously and intentionally for a period of one year. If the parties do not have any minor children, and have entered into a property settlement agreement, then the time of separation required is six months.
(Q) What is an “uncontested divorce”?
(A) An uncontested divorce is one in which the parties agree in a settlement agreement (a contract between the divorcing parties) on the distribution of their assets, division of their debts, custody and visitation terms for any children, and any spousal and/or child support terms. Once an agreement in writing has been reached, then the parties typically submit the agreement to the court for incorporation and enforcement in a divorce order. Uncontested divorces are much less expensive than full blown litigation.
(Q) What is a “Property Settlement Agreement”?
(A) A property settlement agreement (PSA) is just another term for a marital settlement agreement (a contract between the divorcing parties). The PSA can serve as a mutual, contractual settlement of issues relating to the divorce and can be enforced by the court. Of course, skillful legal representation is essential to successfully negotiating a PSA that protects a party’s rights.
(Q) What is a “contested” divorce?
(A) A contested divorce is one in which the parties cannot agree on all or some of the issues involved in a divorce such as the division of their debts, custody and visitation terms for any children, and any spousal and/or child support terms. In the absence of a marital settlement agreement, the parties in a contested divorce engage in litigation and the issues are presented to a court for hearing and determination.
(Q) My spouse and I live in Loudoun County and have recently separated. What court would hear my divorce case?
(A) The preferred venue for Loudoun County divorces is the Leesburg Circuit Court located at 18 East Market Street, Leesburg, Virginia.
(Q) My issues appear to be simple, can’t I just represent myself?
(A) Everyone has the right to represent themselves in a divorce (just as everyone is free to perform their own dentistry). However, no matter how “simple” the issues appear, it is what you do not know in Family Law that can really hurt your interests. Everyone facing divorce should consult with an experienced attorney and discuss the relevant issues such as equitable distribution, division of debts, custody and visitation terms for any children, and any spousal and/or child support.
(Q) My spouse has presented me with a marital settlement agreement. Should I consult with an attorney even if everything looks fine to me?
(A) It is critical that you consult with an attorney prior to signing anything having to do with separation and/or divorce. Any agreement presented to you should be reviewed by an attorney who can advise you of its impacts. Marital settlement agreements often include provisions that you may believe you understand but which have unrecognized unintended, negative consequences for you. Furthermore, your spouse’s proposed marital settlement agreement will likely exclude provisions required for your protection (which you will not recognize).
(Q) What discretion do the court’s and/or judge’s have in Divorce cases?
(A)The courts have tremendous discretion in determining the outcome of divorce matters an that discretion is applied in different ways by different judges in the same court. It is critical that your lawyer be well versed in the philosophy and approach of both the court and the various judges who may hear your case.
(Q) Can I expect for my divorce to resolve the same way as my friend’s divorce?
(A) Most likely not. There are many similarities to divorce cases but they are one of the most fact intensive types of cases. Also, Family law in general (and divorces in particular) are subject to an exceedingly high level of discretion by different courts and judges. Lastly, the particular circumstances are unique.
(Q) My spouse refuses to voluntarily disclose financial information. What can I do?
(A) In the course of litigation, the parties will engage in a process referred to as “discovery.” Discovery is an information gathering and disclosure process using various tools such as questions sent to a party that they must complete under oath, request for documents in the possession of another party, and depositions (wherein a party is asked questions under oath and on the record). Another important tool is the ability of an attorney to issue subpoenas for individuals and businesses, etc., to produce documents and/or appear to testify.
(Q) What does “pendente lite” mean”?
(A) The term pendente lite describes an interim hearing (or hearings) that are held pending the final divorce hearing. At such hearings, the court is authorized to grant temporary relief on many issues including with regard to property, child custody and visitation and support and spousal support. Oftentimes, the court will also award injunctive relief pendente lite such as to prevent, or require, certain conduct by the parties.
(Q) What happens at a final divorce hearing?
(A) The court takes evidence on all the issues involved in the divorce such as the grounds for divorce, division of property and debts, child custody, visitation and support and spousal support, and the award of attorney’s fees. At such hearing, the court will determine whether a divorce can be granted as well as any fault issues and render a decision with regard to the other issues.
(Q) What benefits can the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., provide as a Leesburg and Loudoun County based Family Law firm?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C. we almost exclusively base our divorce representation in Leesburg and Loudoun County, Virginia. We pride ourselves on our detailed knowledge of the philosophies, thought processes and position of the various courts, individuals and entities involved in the courts of Leesburg/Loudoun divorce cases. We leverage our experience and frequent interactions to give you advise and representation tailored to your local case.
(Q) How are fees for legal services assessed?
(A) In divorce and Family Law matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges by the hour. A nominal fee is required for initial consultations. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
(Q) What is the first step to take when facing the prospect of a divorce issue?
(A) The complexity and high stakes nature of divorce and other family law matters require skilled legal representation. The multitude of issues involved extend far beyond the FAQs herein. An initial consultation is the absolute minimum step that a party should take to learn what their rights are and how to protect them. Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your divorce or other Family Law matter.
(Q) How is property in divorce divided?
(A) See our Property In Divorce FAQs below.
(Q) How is child custody and visitation determined?
(A) See Child Custody and Visitation FAQs below.
(Q) How is child support determined?
(A) See Child Support FAQs below.
(Q) How is spousal support determined?
(A) See Spousal Support FAQs below.
Property In Divorce FAQS
(Q) How is the property of divorcing parties distributed?
(A) One of the most complex and important areas of divorce law relates to determining property distributions. The method of distribution used in Virginia is called “equitable distribution.” Equitable distribution may be triggered at the conclusion of the divorce to determine the relative rights and interests of the divorcing parties in property acquired before, during or after the marriage. Click on this link to read the Code section the court must rely upon in determining property distribution decisions. The property will be classified under three classifications to determine the foregoing rights. Property will be classified as “Marital Property”, “Hybrid Property” and or “Separate Property”. Many options are available to the courts in determining the rights of the parties in property. Skilled and aggressive legal representation is essential to achieve desired outcomes.
(Q) What is “Marital” property?
(A) Marital property is generally that property which was acquired from the date of marriage until the date of separation less any separate interests. All property is presumed “marital” and must be proven otherwise.
(Q) What is “Separate” property?
(A) Separate property is generally that property which was acquired prior to the date of marriage or after the date of separation or was received as an inheritance or gift. However, separate property must be proven and “traced”.
(Q) What is “Hybrid” property?
(A) Hybrid property is generally that property which has a separate and marital component. The separate component must be proven and “traced”.
(Q) I want to refinance the marital home into my name only upon divorce. What are my options?
(A) There are many options including (but not limited to) that parties can accomplish this by marital settlement agreement or, when a spouse disagrees, the court has the power to permit a party to refinance a marital home and buy out the other party’s interest.
(Q) The marital home is under water i.e. its mortgages exceed its value. What are my options?
(A) There are many options (but not limited to) that parties can agree to short sale the home, sell the home and cover the cost of the shortfall, maintain the home for a time with the hopes that its value may increase with the agreement that it will then be sold or refinanced, or (if a party is not cooperating) the court may appoint a special commissioner to investigate a short sale or one party or the other may decide to refinance the home and assume the debt with or without contribution from the other party, etc.
(Q) My spouse contributed very little to the marriage and/or acquiring assets? Does that matter?
(A) There is no presumption in Virginia that property is to be divided 50/50 in divorce. In fact, in dividing the assets, the court must consider the negative “monetary” and “non-monetary” contributions of each party to the marriage. As a result, the court can award a disproportionate share of property to one party or the other.
(Q) I have a pension. Does my spouse have an interest?
(A) Maybe. If the pension was accrued during the marriage (and prior to date of separation), then the date of marriage to date of separation value of the pension is likely marital property. However, the court cannot award more than 50% of any pension to the non-pensioner.
(Q) I am separated and my spouse (in anticipation of divorce) is unnecessarily liquidating assets for the purposes of spending for purposes of which I do not approve. What can I do?
(A) There are many options (including but not limited to): A party can petition the court to award an injunction (pendente lite) to safeguard assets until the final divorce hearing. A party can also claim assets purchase with marital resources as marital property. Additionally, for those resources spent for which there are no assets to recover, a party can petition the court to award them a judgment against the spendthrift spouse or credit against other assets.
(Q) What benefits can the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., provide as a Leesburg and Loudoun County based Family Law firm?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., we almost exclusively base our Family Law representation in the courts of Leesburg and Loudoun County, Virginia. We pride ourselves on our detailed knowledge of the philosophies, thought processes and position of the various courts, individuals and entities involved in Leesburg/Loudoun divorce cases. We leverage our experience and frequent interactions to give you advise and representation tailored to your local case.
(Q) How are fees for legal services assessed?
(A) In divorce and Family Law matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges by the hour. A nominal fee is required for initial consultations. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
(Q) What is the first step to take when dealing with property in divorce issues?
(A) The complexity and high stakes nature of property in divorce and other Family Law matters require skilled legal representation. The multitude of issues involved extend far beyond the FAQs herein. An initial consultation is the absolute minimum step that a party should take to learn what their rights are and how to protect them. Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your property in divorce or other Family Law matter.
Child Custody and Visitation FAQS
(Q) How are child custody issues determined in court?
(A) In making a decision as to which party should be awarded custody, the Court will be guided by the “best interests of the child” legal standard. Many legal elements and factual factors impact determinations under the foregoing standard. Custody may be awarded “jointly” or “solely.” In the absence of an agreement, the court will also decide visitation rights. Click on this link to read the Code section the court must rely upon in determining child custody decisions.
(Q) What are the basic differences between sole and joint custody?
(A) Joint custody is a custodial arrangement wherein both parties confer and jointly make important decisions regarding the child. A party having sole custody is not legally required to consult with the other party in making decisions relating to a child. However, even in a sole custody scenario, a party may have the courts intervene in decisions made by the party having sole custody which are not in a child’s best interests.
(Q) The other parent and I are separated and I am having difficulty accessing medical records for my child.
(A) Pursuant to Virginia Code 20-124.6, all parents are entitled to medical records (with or without the other parent’s authorization). Click on this link to read Virginia Code 20-124.6.
(Q) How are child visitation matters determined in court?
(A) In making a decision as to who is awarded visitation (and the terms thereof), the Court will be guided by the “best interests of the child” legal standard. Many legal elements and factual factors impact determinations under the foregoing standard. Visitation arrangements are tailored to fit the unique circumstances of a particular child and the parties. Click on this link to read the Code section which the court must rely upon in determining child visitation decisions.
(Q) What benefits can the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., provide as a Leesburg and Loudoun County based Family Law firm?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., we almost exclusively base our Family Law representation in the courts of Leesburg and Loudoun County, Virginia. We pride ourselves on our detailed knowledge of the philosophies, thought processes and position of the various courts, individuals and entities involved in Leesburg/Loudoun divorce cases. We leverage our experience and frequent interactions to give you advise and representation tailored to your local case.
(Q) How are fees for legal services assessed?
(A) In child custody and visitation and other Family Law matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges by the hour. A nominal fee is required for initial consultations. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
(Q) What is the first step to take when dealing with child custody and visitation issues?
(A) The complexity and high stakes nature of family law matters require skilled legal representation. The multitude of issues involved extend far beyond the FAQs herein. An initial consultation is the absolute minimum step that a party should take to learn what their rights are and how to protect them. Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with child visitation or other Family Law matter.
Child Support FAQs
(Q) How is child support calculated?
(A) Presumptive child support obligations are largely determined by Virginia’s statutory support guidelines. However, the court’s have the authority to “deviate” from the guidelines based on many factors. The most critical variable for calculating child support include (i) number of children, (ii) gross incomes of the parties, (iii) which party is the custodian of the child,(iv) how many days the “non custodian party has a child (0 to 90 days is per year if calculated on the sole guidelines and 90+ is calculated on the shared guidelines), (v) the cost of health insurance and (f) the cost of any reasonable “work related” child care among others. Click on this link to read the Code section the court must rely upon in determining child support decisions.
(Q) The other party refuses to work and earn a decent wage and as a result, it looks like I will have to pay much more in child support. Can anything be done?
(A) The court has the power to “impute” income to a party who is voluntarily underemployed or unemployed. Most commonly, but not always, a vocational expert should be utilized to provide the evidence needed.
(Q) My child support was set long ago. Can it be modified?
(A) Maybe. The Court maintains jurisdiction to determine child support initially and thereafter to re-visit the issue upon a “material change in circumstances”.
(Q) My child support was set long ago and my ex has a lucrative job now but refuses to disclose his/her income information so I can recalculate child support. What can I do?
(A) In the absence of an agreement to re-calculate child support based on proper disclosures, a party may have to file a motion to modify child support upon information and belief that the other party’s income has increased and therefore a material change in circumstances has occurred warranting a modification of child support. After the motion is filed, and in the course of litigation, the parties will engage in a process referred to as “discovery.” Discovery is an information gathering and disclosure process using various tools such as questions sent to a party that they must complete under oath, request for documents in the possession of another party, and depositions (wherein a party is asked questions under oath and on the record). Another important tool is the ability of an attorney to issue subpoenas for individuals and businesses, etc., to produce documents and/or appear to testify.
(Q) My child is older now and no longer in “work related” child care (the cost of which was included in determining child support). What can I do?
(A) In the absence of an agreement to re-calculate child support, a party may have to file a motion to modify child support on the grounds that work related child care is no longer used and as such a material change in circumstances has occurred warranting a modification of child support.
(Q) What benefits can the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., provide as a Leesburg and Loudoun County based Family Law firm?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., we almost exclusively base our Family Law representation in the courts of Leesburg and Loudoun County, Virginia. We pride ourselves on our detailed knowledge of the philosophies, thought processes and position of the various courts, individuals and entities involved in Leesburg/Loudoun divorce cases. We leverage our experience and frequent interactions to give you advise and representation tailored to your local case.
(Q) How are fees for legal services assessed?
(A) In child support and Family Law matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges by the hour. A nominal fee is required for initial consultations. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
(Q) What is the first step to take when dealing with child support issues?
(A) The complexity and high stakes nature of child support and other Family Law matters require skilled legal representation. The multitude of issues involved extend far beyond the FAQs herein. An initial consultation is the absolute minimum step that a party should take to learn what their rights are and how to protect them. Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your Family Law matter.
Spousal Support FAQs
(Q) How is spousal support determined?
(A) Spousal support may be awarded in varying circumstances to assist a financially dependent party. Issues involved in determining spousal support depend on key factors such as: (a) gross incomes of the parties, (b) need and ability to pay, (c) length of a marriage, (d) standard of living during the marriage, (e) the roles of the parties in marriage, (f) the abilities of the parties and (g) financial resources of the parties. under Click on this link to read the Code section the court must rely upon in determining spousal support decisions.
(Q) The other party refuses to work and/or earn a decent wage and, as a result, it looks like I will have to pay much more in spousal support. Can anything be done?
(A) The court has the power to “impute” income to a party who is voluntarily underemployed or unemployed. Most commonly, but not always, a vocational expert should be utilized to provide the evidence needed. Successful imputation of income can dramatically mitigate or preclude the amount and/or duration of spousal support.
(Q) What is permanent support vs. defined duration support as awarded by a court?
(A) When a court awards “permanent” support (such as in the case of a long-term marriage), the support is to be paid until modified by the court or until certain termination events occur. Defined duration support is as the term suggests-spousal support to be paid for a time certain.
(Q) What is the general role of adultery in spousal support?
(A) A finding of adultery will bar a party from spousal support unless to deny such support would constitute a “manifest injustice.”
(Q) I just retired. Can I modify and/or terminate my spousal support obligation?
(A) Maybe. You will need to consult with an attorney to determine whether your specific obligation maybe modifiable or terminated. However, generally, if the spousal support award was made by the court (not by an agreement of the parties precluding or not providing for modification) then the court should have the jurisdiction to modify the award upon the change of circumstances. When a court awards “permanent” support (such as in the case of a long-term marriage), the support is to be paid until modified by the court or until certain termination events occur. Defined duration support is as the term suggests-spousal support to be paid for a time certain.
(Q) What is the statutory basis for termination of spousal support?
(A) (i)The death of the payor or payee, (ii) the remarriage of the payee, (iii) upon clear and convincing evidence that the payee has been habitually cohabiting with another person in a relationship analogous to a marriage.
(Q) What is the first step to take when dealing with spousal support issues?
(A) The complexity and high stakes nature of child support and other Family Law matters require skilled legal representation. The multitude of issues involved extend far beyond the FAQs herein. An initial consultation is the absolute minimum step that a party should take to learn what their rights are and how to protect them. Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your Family Law matter.
(Q) What benefits can the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., provide as a Leesburg and Loudoun County based Family Law firm?
(A) At the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., we almost exclusively base our Family Law representation in the courts of Leesburg and Loudoun County, Virginia. We pride ourselves on our detailed knowledge of the philosophies, thought processes and position of the various courts, individuals and entities involved in Leesburg/Loudoun divorce cases. We leverage our experience and frequent interactions to give you advice and representation tailored to your local case.
(Q) How are fees for legal services assessed?
(A) In divorce and family law matters, the Law Office of William R.F. Conners, P.C., charges by the hour. A nominal fee is required for initial consultations. Visa/MasterCard accepted.
Contact the Law Office of William R. F. Conners, P.C. for assistance with your Divorce, Child Visitation and Custody and Support and Spousal Support issues or other Family Law matter. The right law firm and lawyer can make all the difference.
Consultations offered by appointment • Credit cards accepted • Fee charged for consultations relating to Divorce and all Family Law matters
DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.