Am I Entitled to Alimony in My Divorce?

Patricia TichenorLegal

spousal support orders in virginia

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is a common issue in divorce cases. This payment from one ex spouse to another is separate from any child support payments that the Court may order. Spousal support is often awarded when there is a significant income gap between the spouses. However, just because one spouse earns more does not automatically mean the other is entitled to spousal support payments. The Court takes many different circumstances into consideration … Read More

How Do I Modify a Child Support Order?

Patricia TichenorLegal

modify child support

If you and your ex-spouse have an existing child support order and need to change it, you’ll need to file a petition with the court. Here’s how to do it.

How Does Step-Parent Adoption Work?

Patricia TichenorLegal

blended family

Step-parent adoption is a common family law matter in Virginia. If you wish to legally adopt your spouse’s child(ren), here’s an overview of the process.

Child & Family Issues

Patricia TichenorLegal

Your child means everything to you. You want what’s best for them in all circumstances, especially if they’re at the center of a court decision that will impact their future. Legal matters regarding minor children can be tricky. The most common family law cases involving minors are divorce and custody arrangements, but other circumstances – such as guardian appointment in the absence or incapacitation of a child’s natural parents – may bring a child’s fate … Read More

Probate & Will

Patricia TichenorLegal

When a person passes away, their property and assets are typically distributed to their beneficiaries through a probate court. The probate process can be complicated and drawn-out even when the deceased has an updated last will and testament – if they don’t, it could mean heartache and frustration for their families. In cases where a person dies intestate – that is, without a valid will – a probate court appoints an administrator to manage the … Read More

Divorce & Marital Law

Patricia TichenorLegal

Divorce is one of the most stressful and difficult life events a person can go through. Once you’ve processed the emotional shock, you now have to face a complex and often lengthy legal process to obtain a final order of divorce. In order to file for a no-fault divorce in the Commonwealth of Virginia, you and your spouse must have been separated for a minimum of six (6) months if you have no minor children, … Read More