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Richmond Family Law Attorney

Compassionate Support for Virginia Divorce & Family Law Matters

Cases involving divorce, child custody, and other family law matters can bring major stress and uncertainty. When you need to protect your finances or the well-being of your children, we support you through every step. Your case may not need to go to trial, but if litigation becomes necessary, our experience in the courtroom helps defend your rights and achieve the outcomes that matter most to you.

At our firm, Taylor B. Stone remains directly involved during all phases of your divorce or family law case. He responds to calls and emails personally and gives you direct access throughout your legal process. You will not arrive in court and find an unfamiliar attorney representing you. Our firm believes that one dedicated family law attorney in Richmond who knows your situation delivers far better service than a team with divided attention. At Janus & Stone, P.C., we pursue every detail with care and determination, negotiating or litigating when necessary. Protecting your legal rights and reaching the outcome you need guides everything we do.

Turn to our reputable and competent Richmond family law lawyer for your divorce and other family-related legal needs. Contact us online or at (804) 265-4441
for an initial consultation.

Understanding Family Law in Richmond, Virginia: Local Insights and Resources

Richmond families face unique challenges when dealing with divorce or child custody disputes. Local agencies, including the Richmond City Circuit Court and the Virginia Department of Social Services, offer vital resources during difficult times. Knowing how the legal system in Richmond operates improves your chances of making informed decisions and reduces unnecessary delays in your case.

In Richmond, divorce often involves a range of emotional and financial issues, especially when children are involved. The court process can be complicated, but local resources such as the Richmond Family Resource Center provide valuable support through workshops and counseling. These services help you manage the emotional side of family law disputes and offer guidance so you can plan with confidence.

At Janus & Stone, we understand what matters most to families in Richmond. Whether you are focused on custody, asset division, or securing the right support, our commitment to your needs means you have a partner for every stage. We use our knowledge of Richmond’s community and family law landscape to find practical solutions designed for your circumstances.

Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution in Richmond Family Law

Mediation often gives families in Richmond a practical pathway to resolving disputes without the need for a lengthy court process. In many family law cases, couples can reach agreements on child custody, support, or dividing property when aided by a neutral third-party mediator. The Richmond Family Court Services Unit organizes structured mediation sessions tailored to local needs, helping parties find common ground and reduce conflict. Many families see mediation as an opportunity to shape the outcome themselves, especially when children are involved.

At Janus & Stone, our experience supporting clients in Richmond-area mediations helps you approach this process with clarity and confidence. We provide steady guidance throughout the confidential sessions and make sure you understand your legal options before any agreement. Many families appreciate that mediation can limit costs and resolve disputes faster than going to trial while still protecting your interests. Our practical approach balances legal advice with the realities of your family’s needs in Richmond courts.

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I prepare for a child custody hearing?

Preparing for a child custody hearing involves gathering relevant documents, such as school records and medical information, as well as creating a parenting plan that outlines how you will meet your child's needs. It's also beneficial to have a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.

What factors does the court consider in child custody cases?

The court typically considers several factors, including the child's age, the relationship between the child and each parent, the parents' ability to provide for the child's needs, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

How long does the divorce process usually take in Virginia?

The duration of the divorce process in Virginia can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, whether it is contested or uncontested, and the court's schedule. Generally, an uncontested divorce can take a few months, while a contested divorce may take significantly longer.

Can I modify an existing child custody agreement?

Yes, it is possible to modify an existing child custody agreement if there is a significant change in circumstances that affects the child's welfare. This typically requires filing a petition with the court and providing evidence to support the modification.

Grandparents’ & Third-Party Rights in Richmond Family Law Cases

Family dynamics often extend beyond just parents and children. In Richmond, grandparents or other relatives sometimes wish to remain part of a child’s life after a divorce or separation. Virginia law allows courts to grant visitation or even custody to grandparents or other third parties if doing so serves the child’s best interests. Richmond judges consider factors including the stability a relative offers and their longstanding relationship with the child. Courts typically give parents priority rights, but they may decide in favor of a third party when circumstances—such as long-term absence or unsafe conditions—warrant it.

If you wish to maintain a meaningful role in a child’s life, we help you understand the available legal options. Drawing from years of local courtroom experience, we clarify each step in seeking visitation or custody rights in Richmond. Our approach highlights your positive impact while focusing on the child’s well-being, using our detailed knowledge of city court procedures to guide you through the process.

Call (804) 265-4441 or contact us online to discuss your case with an experienced defense attorney.

Areas of Practice Over a Thousand Cases Handled

Family Law Services We Provide

Our firm represents clients throughout the greater Richmond area in the following family law matters:

  • Divorce. This includes uncontested as well as contested divorces, including those that involve high net-worth or complex financial holdings.
  • Child custody. This issue can be one of the most emotionally challenging topics for parents. Courts focus on the best interests of the child. If no divorce is pending, the parent must file a petition in the juvenile and domestic relations court. The factors courts consider are set forth in Virginia Code §20.124.3.
  • Child support. Noncustodial parents usually pay child support based on a formula under state guidelines. Unless the child has special circumstances, support continues until the child reaches 18, or for any child over 18 who is still in high school, not self-supporting, and living in the home, it extends until the child turns 19 or graduates, whichever comes first.
  • Division of marital assets and debts through “equitable distribution.” Equitable distribution does not always mean a 50/50 split. Courts look at many factors in Virginia law, including each party’s contributions to the marriage, care of the marital property, and how assets were acquired.
  • Spousal support/alimony. Courts decide this based on each spouse’s financial condition, needs, and ability to pay. Many different factors affect the decision.
  • Separation agreements. These written contracts outline the rights and obligations of parties who are separating or divorcing, covering property, assets, and support.
  • Protective orders. Courts issue these orders in domestic abuse cases to protect victims and their children, sometimes on an emergency or long-term basis. Our attorney can represent either party in these matters.

We also help clients consider mediation and alternative dispute resolution when these options fit the situation. These approaches can enable families to settle disputes outside the courtroom, often leading to more efficient and mutually agreeable solutions. Richmond courts support mediation services, and we guide you through these local resources for matters like child custody or dividing property.

  • Post-divorce issues. These can include seeking modifications and enforcement of court orders about child custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, and protective orders.

Divorce in Virginia

Virginia’s no-fault divorce law requires spouses to live separate and apart for one year before finalizing a divorce. Couples without children who have a valid separation agreement can finalize after six months.

Fault-based divorces may be filed on grounds of adultery, felony conviction, willful desertion, or cruelty. Courts require concrete evidence for these cases, which tend to be more complex than no-fault divorces. Some parties may benefit in asset division or spousal support depending on the grounds.

In Richmond, couples typically have their divorce cases heard at the John Marshall Courts Building, the main courthouse in the city. Filing requirements and timelines may differ from those in nearby counties, so we track Richmond court rules at every step. Mediation services offered through the Richmond Family Court Services Unit help many families settle disputes outside of litigation. Our familiarity with city-specific practices ensures your case receives a process tailored for Richmond’s system.

Retain a Trusted Family Law Trial Lawyer in Richmond

Attorney Taylor B. Stone has earned a reputation as a strong litigator and negotiator for clients facing legal challenges. With more than 20 years of handling family law cases of every type and complexity, our firm brings the practical experience, knowledge, and insight needed to help you through a critical time. We know the stress and uncertainty involved in family law cases. We provide care, counsel, and support for your needs and goals at every stage of the process.

Family law matters can affect families over many years, from pre-divorce planning to post-judgment modifications. We remain available to help as circumstances change—job moves, changes in a child’s needs, or issues enforcing earlier court orders—so your priorities remain protected in the long term. We tailor support for Richmond families, considering the realities of life in the area and the unique courthouse environment. When you choose Janus & Stone, you get guidance grounded in years of practice in Richmond courts and a detailed understanding of local rules and people.

We are available at (804) 265-4441 or contact us via our online request form to arrange to speak with our Richmond family law attorney today.

Why Choose Janus & Stone, P.C.?

We Will Fight to Protect Your Rights, Freedom, and Future
  • Experience You Can Count On

    For more than 20 years, Attorney Taylor B. Stone has successfully handled over a thousand cases due to his unparalleled trial experience and exceptional negotiation skills.

  • Accessibility to Clients
    At Janus & Stone, we pride ourselves on the ability to effectively communicate with our clients. We strive to return calls and emails as quickly as possible to ensure we are providing every client with high-quality service.
  • Great Reputation
    Over the years, Attorney Taylor B. Stone has established a great foundation in his community by creating great working relationships with his clients and those in the legal field.
  • Personalized Attention
    We put our clients first. Our firm specializes in creating effective relationships with our clients in order to work towards the best possible outcome in their case.

Meet Your Attorney

Experienced & Trial-Tested
"Mr. Stone went to work on my behalf and came out with a positive result that allowed me to continue working in my career."
Emcnell