As soon as your divorce is filed, a Newport family law attorney begins working for you. Some people are completely blindsided by a divorce, especially if there is some sort of family trauma such as marital infidelity or domestic violence. Other couples may see the signs that point to divorce, but be in denial about the matter. Even if you see the signs and react accordingly, you may be surprised by the sudden and dramatic lifestyle change and sudden and dramatic influx of bills.
Temporary orders in Virginia
A judge can grant temporary orders in either a dissolution of marriage or an a Mensa et Thoro (“from bed and board”) divorce. An a Mensa divorce is a temporary legal separation for those who have been physically separated for less than one year. Temporary orders are in effect until a divorce decree is granted or until the temporary orders are modified:
- Temporary spousal support: Many times, a payee spouse needs money to pay rental deposits, purchase new furniture and appliances, pay day-care costs and a host of other startup expenses. Temporary spousal support helps ease the financial burden by providing money from the payor spouse for such expenses.
- Temporary child custody: Sometimes, there needs to be immediate provisions for the children, including where they spend their time and who makes important decisions. Temporary orders can set up both physical and legal custody.
- Temporary attorneys’ fees: As additional temporary spousal support, a judge may award temporary attorneys’ fees to a party in need. Such fees are usually paid by the payor spouse directly to the other spouse’s lawyer.
For an attorney who can guide you through the divorce process, contact our office and schedule a consultation.
