Virginia law dictates that marital property is divided equitably in a divorce. This means fairly, but not necessarily equally. Real estate, including the marital home, falls under this division. A judge considers various factors when determining the appropriate distribution of the home. These factors include the monetary and non-monetary contributions of each spouse to the well-being of the family, the duration of the marriage, and the circumstances leading to the divorce.
Reaching a clear resolution regarding real property is crucial for both parties involved in a divorce. A well-defined agreement, whether reached through negotiation or court order, provides stability and allows individuals to move forward with their lives. Historically, property ownership heavily favored men. However, modern legal frameworks strive for fairer outcomes, recognizing the contributions of both spouses regardless of gender or traditional roles.