During your consultation, our attorneys will inform you of a necessary retainer to get started on your case. Your retainer fee is based on the type of case (i.e. contested divorce, child support modification, child custody modification, etc.), your goals, and the estimated time and work needed to properly represent you. For insight into our billing process please read this article.
Advocate for Your Rights
Client Intake Specialists
You Don’t Have to Face Divorce Alone — We’re Ready to Act
Meet Allison and Reed. They’ve helped countless Virginians take control during difficult divorce and family law situations. When you reach out, they get to work by listening to your concerns, learning your needs, and connecting you with an experienced family law attorney.
Don’t wait. Your free case review is the fastest way to protect your rights and interests. Contact us today and they’ll help you move forward with confidence.
Reviews
Real Families,
Real Results.
I initially attempted to handle my uncontested divorce myself, believing it would be a straightforward process. I quickly realized how complex the paperwork and filing procedures truly are and that trying to navigate them alone was adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult time. Hiring...
I struggled for a while trying to figure out how to move forward with my divorce process. Virginia Family Law Center a d the team that took on my case was amazing. I was overwhelmed and frustrated. From the very first consult, and every call...
Thank you for your wonderful review, Dale. We are so pleased to hear that we could make your uncontested divorce process easy and that you found our team to be professional and efficient. Clear communication is a cornerstone of our practice, and we're glad it...
Professional, responsive, and knowledgeable. Made a difficult process more manageable and bearable. Helped me understand my rights and how best to protect me and my kids. Very thankful I found this firm.
VFLC made the process very smooth and thorough during my divorce proceedings. From seperation, drafting extra documents, and filing I didn't have to do much on my end. My divorce was smooth because I have no kids or business holdings but they checked everything.
I am extremely happy with the way Virginia Family Law Center handled my divorce case. They are professional and reasonable firm especially Ms. Allison Herrera.
Wonderful experience they took care of all my worries and would recommend them to anyone.
I had a divorce issue handled by Virginian Family Law Center. They are professional and very helpful to resolve the issue. A huge thanks goes this teamwho handle the case and win the case in favor of me. I highly recommend the VFLCP for those...
I had an opportunity to work with Anthony on a 7-month-long case. From the jump they've done a really good job of setting expectations and then following through like clockwork throughout the process. I'm pleased with their support and will use them again as the...
I had the pleasure of working with a great lawyer there who heard and promptly helped, and the whole law firm explained everything every step of the way. Not only do I thank you but my whole family does as well.
About Us Virginia
Family Law
Attorneys
Who Care
Dealing with divorce, separations, or any other family law issue can be difficult, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re looking for an experienced divorce or family lawyer, Virginia Family Law Center, P.C. is here to help you. Our legal team possesses a wealth of trial experience in all aspects of family law and can extend this representation to you.
At Virginia Family Law Center, P.C., we work closely with clients, helping them navigate the legal system. Some firms simply read clients their rights and hope it makes sense. We do more. We go out of our way to educate our clients, explaining their rights, responsibilities, and the possible ramifications of each choice. Book a time online or call 703-865-5839 to schedule your consultation with an experienced Northern Virginia family lawyer.
Your Family. Your Rights. Our Experience.
Protect what matters most to you with
proven, practical legal counsel.
Let’s Talk 703-865-5839
Services
- Divorce
- Contested Divorce
- Uncontested Divorce
- Custody Modifications
- Child Support
- Divorce With Children
- Spousal Support
- High-Asset Divorce
- Parental Alienation
- Property Settlement Agreements
- Retirement Accounts
- Court Order Enforcement
- Child Custody And Visitation
- Emergency Custody Support
- Custody Without Marriage
- Paternity And Child Support
- Support Modifications
- Property Division
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Wills, Trusts, And Estates
- Consultations
- Divorce
- Contested Divorce
- Uncontested Divorce
- Custody Modifications
- Child Support
- Divorce With Children
- Spousal Support
- High-Asset Divorce
- Parental Alienation
- Property Settlement Agreements
- Retirement Accounts
- Court Order Enforcement
- Child Custody And Visitation
- Emergency Custody Support
- Custody Without Marriage
- Paternity And Child Support
- Support Modifications
- Property Division
- Prenuptial Agreements
- Wills, Trusts, And Estates
- Consultations
Take the First Step –
Let’s Meet
You deserve experienced representation.
Schedule a consultation to put
our experience to work for your family.
Let’s Talk 703-865-5839
The difference is how disputes are resolved — not whether they exist.Uncontested Divorce
vs. Contested Divorce
| Criteria | Uncontested Divorce | Contested Divorce | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolve issues through negotiation rather than court hearings |
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| Minimize court involvement, time, and cost |
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| Maintain greater control over the outcome |
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| Have a more predictable process and timeline |
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| Have the option to involve the court if negotiations fail |
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| Expect ongoing high conflict or refusal to negotiate |
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| Rely on the court to resolve disputes or protect your interests |
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| Need the court to decide custody, support, or property due to unresolved disputes |
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| VFLC Representation Availability |
| Uncontested Divorce | Contested Divorce | |
|---|---|---|
| Criteria | ||
| Resolve issues through negotiation rather than court hearings |
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empty
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| Minimize court involvement, time, and cost |
tick
|
empty
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| Maintain greater control over the outcome |
tick
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empty
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| Have a more predictable process and timeline |
tick
|
empty
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| Have the option to involve the court if negotiations fail |
tick
|
tick
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| Expect ongoing high conflict or refusal to negotiate |
empty
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tick
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| Rely on the court to resolve disputes or protect your interests |
empty
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| Need the court to decide custody, support, or property due to unresolved disputes |
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| VFLC Representation Availability |
Important: Many divorces begin as negotiated cases and only become contested if agreement cannot be reached. Starting with an uncontested approach does not limit your ability to change course if court intervention becomes necessary.
Summary
- Uncontested Divorce: Best suited for cases where parties are willing to negotiate in good faith with legal guidance to reach agreement on all issues.
- Contested Divorce: Appropriate when good-faith negotiation is not possible and court involvement is required to resolve disputes or protect a party’s rights.
We’ll help you determine which resolution approach best fits your situation.
Meet The TeamThat Will
Protect Your Rights
What Type of Family Law Matter
Do You Need Help With?
Our experienced trial attorneys handle every type of
family law matter and are ready to guide you through the divorce process.
contested divorce
A contested divorce is the most common legal matter people think of when they hear the word divorce. This is when a couple cannot agree on the terms of their divorce, there are issues surrounding the division of property, child custody, child support or spousal support.
uncontested divorce
An uncontested divorce is where both parties agree on all issues in the case or are able to negotiate an agreement without a trial. Instead of having a judge decide disputes, the terms of the divorce are resolved by agreement and submitted to the court for approval. You can learn more about this divorce process here.
Other Matters
If you are already divorced but want to change a court order or enforce one that is being violated, contact us about Modifications. A modification is when a party wants to change an existing court order, such as but not limited to Child Custody and Visitation, Child Support, Spousal Support, Property Division, Retirement Benefits, and Insurance Coverage. For more information on modifications, check out this article.
Our Awards & Achievements
FAQ The Answers You
Seek When You Need Them
How Much Does a Divorce Cost?
What is the Difference Between a Divorce and an Uncontested Divorce?
A contested divorce is the “traditional” legal matter people think of when they hear the word divorce. This is when a couple cannot agree on the terms of their divorce and must go to court or mediation to resolve them. In the end, a judge will decide terms for you if you cannot agree to a settlement on your own or through your attorney.
An uncontested divorce is a type of divorce where both parties agree on the issues involved in the case, if any. In this type of divorce, the major issues in the case are settled by the spouses rather than in a trial where the courts would make those decisions.
What is a Separation and Property Settlement Agreement?
A Separation and Property Settlement Agreement is a written contract between the parties that presents their rights, duties and obligations that arise out of their separation and divorce. These may include such things as the division of their property, spousal support, custody, and child support. Separation Agreements are not required in the divorce process, though they are highly recommended.
What are the Fault Grounds for Divorce in Virginia?
The State of Virginia allows for divorce on fault-based and no-fault grounds.
Fault-based grounds include adultery, if your ex has a felony conviction that results in a sentence of at least one year and that caused him or her to spend at least some time behind bars, desertion or abandonment, or reasonable fear for bodily harm.
No-fault grounds are granted based on a few conditions. At least one party must be a resident of Virginia for at least six months, neither party is filing for fault grounds, you and your spouse must have lived separately for one year, or six months if you do not have children under the age of 18.
How Long Do I Need to be Separated Before Filing for Divorce in Virginia?
In Virginia, a final uncontested divorce may not be granted until the parties have been separated for at least one year if there are children born of the marriage. In the event that the parties have no children and have signed a Separation and Property Settlement Agreement, the parties may proceed with the divorce after a six-month separation.
What is Considered Marital Property?
Marital property refers to anything of value that is acquired during the time in which the spouses were legally married. This includes bank accounts, income, investment portfolios, pensions, retirement accounts, houses, cars, jewelry, art, clothing, furniture, and even pets. Life insurance policies and lottery winnings are also considered marital property.
Read our article on marital property.
Can I Live With My Spouse During a Divorce?
Living with a spouse during a divorce can be a viable option for some but might not be suitable for others. It’s a personal decision that requires careful consideration of various factors, including emotional well-being, financial implications, and legal consequences.
Read our blog on this topic.
Have more questions? Click here to get answers.
Areas We Represent Individuals in Family Law Matters in Virginia
- Fairfax County
- Centreville
- Reston
- McLean
- Burke
- Annandale
- West Falls Church
- Oakton
- Fair Oaks
- Tysons
- Springfield
- Fairfax
- Herndon
- Bailey’s Crossroads
- West Springfield
- Chantilly
- Lorton
- Great Falls
- Difficult Run
- Sully Square
- Fairfax Station
- Vienna
- Prince William County
- Dale City
- Woodbridge
- Lake Ridge
- Linton Hall
- Leesylvania
- Cherry Hill
- Montclair
- Buckhall
- Sudley
- Gainesville
- Bull Run
- Manassas Park
- Independent Hill
- Triangle
- Yorkshire
- Loudoun County
- Leesburg
- Ashburn
- South Riding
- Sterling
- Brambleton
- Stone Ridge
- Broadlands
- Landsdowne
- Sugarland Run
- Cascades
- Dulles Town Center
- Lowes Island
- Belmont
- Purcellville
- Middleburg
- One Loudoun
- Arlington
- Arlington
- Alexandria
- Alexandria
- Fauquier County
- New Baltimore
- Warrenton
- Bealeton
- The Plains
- Delaplane
Blog News & Updates
May 20, 2026
How to Answer Your Child’s Questions About Divorce in Virginia
By Sharie Reyes Albers, Partner, Virginia Family Law Center Divorce is a challenging transition for everyone involved, and children are often the most deeply affected. As a parent, grappling with your…
May 20, 2026
What is a QDRO in a Virginia Divorce? A Complete Guide
By Sharie Reyes Albers, Partner, Virginia Family Law Center Dividing retirement benefits during a divorce is often one of the most complex financial hurdles a couple will face. You may have…
April 06, 2026
How Can Parents Create a Long-Distance Co-Parenting Plan That Works?
Co-parenting after a divorce comes with plenty of challenges, but trying to parent hundreds of miles apart is particularly difficult. Sometimes, a parent must relocate for work or to be closer…
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Have a Question?
Virginia Family Law Center is ready to help you when you need it most. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a Client Intake Specialist. You’ll hear back the same day or within one business day. If you need immediate assistance, please call our office at 703.865.5839 Monday through Friday between 9 AM and 5 PM ET. If you already know an attorney you’d like to speak with, you can book with them directly here.
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