Who Gets The House In A Contested Divorce

May 29, 2024

Who Gets The House In A Contested Divorce

Divorce is a challenging and emotional process, especially when it comes to deciding who gets the family home. In Virginia, the division of property in a divorce can be a complex issue, particularly in contested divorces where the spouses cannot agree on how to divide their assets. At Casey Legal, P.C., we understand the complexities of contested divorce cases and are here to assist Virginia residents navigate through these difficult times.
In Virginia, marital property is divided equitably in a divorce, which means that each spouse is entitled to a fair share of the assets acquired during the marriage. This includes the family home, which is often one of the most valuable assets in a marriage. When determining who gets the house in a contested divorce, factors such as each spouse's financial contributions to the property, their respective needs and earning capacities, and any agreements made during the marriage will be taken into consideration.
One option for dividing the family home in a contested divorce is for one spouse to buy out the other's share of the property. This can be done by refinancing the mortgage or offsetting other assets against the value of the home. Another option is for both spouses to continue owning and living in the house jointly until a certain event triggers its sale or transfer. This arrangement can be temporary or permanent depending on the circumstances of the divorce.
If neither spouse wants to keep the family home or if selling it is deemed necessary to divide assets fairly, then it may be put on market for sale. The proceeds from selling the house will then be divided between both parties according to their respective ownership interests. This process can be emotional and complicated, which is why having an experienced attorney like Casey Legal, P.C. on your side can help ensure that your rights are protected throughout this process.
In some cases, one spouse may have contributed significantly more towards acquiring or maintaining the family home than other spouse during marriage. In these situations, that spouse may be awarded a greater share of equity in order to compensate them for their contributions. It's important to note that separate property owned by one spouse prior to marriage or acquired through inheritance or gift during marriage is not subject equitable distribution laws in Virginia.
Navigating through a contested divorce can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to deciding who gets the family home. At Casey Legal, P.C., we have experience handling complex divorce cases and can provide guidance and support throughout this process. Whether you are looking to keep your family home or ensure that you receive a fair share of its value, our team is here to help you achieve your goals while protecting your legal rights. Contact us today for a consultation and let us assist you with your contested divorce matters in Virginia.

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