November 19, 2025
Cravens & Noll Named One of the Best Law Firms in Richmond, David Noll Voted Best Attorney
We are honored and humbled to announce that Cravens & Noll has been voted one of Richmond’s Best Law Firms, and our partner David Noll has been named Richmond’s Best Attorney by readers of the Richmond Times-Dispatch!
These awards hold special significance as we celebrate 30 years of serving the Richmond community – three decades of standing by our clients through life’s most challenging moments. Since our founding 30 years ago, we’ve remained committed to one simple promise: to be Your Lawyers for Life.
A Recognition Built on Trust
This recognition doesn’t belong to us alone, it belongs to every client who has trusted us with their legal needs over the past three decades. Whether you came to us for help with a personal injury case, a divorce, estate planning, or any of the other legal challenges life throws our way, you made these awards possible.
Thank you for your trust, your votes, and your ongoing support.
Service to Richmond Spanning Across 4 Decades
Cravens & Noll has had the privilege of protecting and serving the rights of over 25,000 people throughout Virginia. We’ve been there for Richmond families as one of the best law firms during their toughest moments, from car accidents and workplace injuries to custody battles and estate planning.
What sets us apart isn’t just our legal expertise across multiple practice areas. It’s our commitment to treating every client with the personal attention they deserve. When you call Cravens & Noll, you speak directly with your lawyer, no middleman, no endless calls. Because we understand that when you need legal help, this is your life – not just another case number.
Why “Your Lawyers for Life” Means Everything
Being voted Best Law Firm in Richmond and having David Noll recognized as Best Attorney in Richmond by the readers of the Richmond Times Dispatch reflects the relationships we’ve built with this community. Many of our clients come back to us again and again throughout different seasons of their lives – for a personal injury claim one year, help with estate planning the next, or guidance through a difficult family matter down the road.
That’s what being “Your Lawyers for Life” truly means. We’re here for whatever comes next, ready to fight for your rights and protect your interests no matter what legal challenge you face.
Serving Richmond Across Multiple Practice Areas
Our team at Cravens & Noll represents clients across Central Virginia in:
- Personal Injury
- Family Law & Divorce
- Criminal Defense
- Estate Planning & Wills
- Traffic & DUI
- Bankruptcy
- Small Business Law
- And more
With four offices serving Richmond and Harrisonburg, we’re positioned to help our community whenever and wherever they need us. That’s one of the many reasons we were named one of Richmond’s best law firms.
Looking Forward to the Next 30 Years
As we celebrate this recognition and our 30th anniversary, we remain as committed as ever to providing exceptional legal representation to the people of Richmond. We’re grateful to be part of this community, and we look forward to serving you for decades to come.
If you need legal assistance or simply want to schedule a consultation, we’re here for you. Because at Cravens & Noll, we’ll always be your lawyers for life.
Contact Cravens & Noll:
Phone: 804-330-9220
Website: cravensnoll.com
Cravens & Noll P.C. has been protecting and serving the rights of Virginians since 1991. Named Richmond’s Best Law Firm by Richmond Times-Dispatch readers, with partner David Noll recognized as Richmond’s Best Attorney.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
October 22, 2025
How Do I Find a Family Law Attorney
As with other law practice areas, you don’t typically think about the process of finding a family law attorney in Powhatan (or anywhere) until you absolutely need to.
To help you in your search for a family law attorney, we’ve compiled some tips on steps that will help you make the best decision you can for hiring a family law attorney.
Here are the 4 things you need to know to hire a family law attorney in Powhatan and the full Richmond, Virginia area:
- Know what type of lawyer you need
- Know where you’ll file your case
- Know what your options are
- Know what makes a good family lawyer
Know What Type of Lawyer You Need
Not all lawyers work in all practice areas. Many of them specialize in specific types of law. Before you begin your search for a family law attorney, you need to know if your case is something that qualifies as family law.
Family law, otherwise known as “domestic relations” or “matrimonial law”, can typically include the legal matters surrounding marriage or family relations such as divorce, custody, adoption, or prenuptial agreements.
You will need a family lawyer in Powhatan (or in the Richmond area) if your case involves one of the following:
- You would like to get married with a prenuptial agreement
- You and your spouse are pursuing a divorce, annulment or legal separation
- You would like to modify a divorce agreement
- You would like guidance or modify the terms of spousal support, alimony or child support
- You are pursuing an adoption
- You and your child’s other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation
Know Where You Will File Your Case
Most cases are filed in the county where the person who is filing the case lives, or if it is a matter involving child custody or support, where the child primarily resides The person who files is called either the plaintiff or petitioner.
It’s important to consider the legal residence of the plaintiff because family laws vary from state-to-state. Because the laws are different from state-to-state, each state has a bar association that the lawyer must join before he/she can practice law.
A lawyer who practices family law in Richmond and Chesterfield county, for example, might join the Greater Richmond Bar Foundation or the Chesterfield Bar Association.
Your friend in another state might have a good recommendation for a family law attorney that they trust, but if they don’t have a license to practice law in Virginia, you can’t hire them. If your friend has a good recommendation for a family law attorney who practices in another part of the state and is not familiar with the courts and judges in your area, you may want to consider another attorney who practices more in your area.
Know What Your Options Are
Once you know where you are looking for a family law attorney, you should search for the law firm that will best represent you. You can begin your search on your state’s bar association directory or on a search engine like Google or Bing.
If you search online, you’ll want to include the county or city that you are looking for a family lawyer in rather than “near me.” A good local family lawyer, even if they are on the other side of the city/county, may serve your needs better than the lawyer that happens to be closest to you at the time that you are searching.
Most lawyers have a website that will tell you a little about them and what practice areas they are involved in. They might have some informative resources on their website that give you a snapshot of the types of cases they handle. There might even be answers to some of the frequently asked questions that you might already be wondering about!
Know What Makes a Good Family Lawyer
A good family lawyer should be:
- In good standing with their state’s bar association
- Easy to get in touch with
- Willing to answer questions
- Clear about how much they charge
- Can explain to you a good plan to be successful in your case
Family law attorneys help you navigate legal matters that are sometimes simple but are usually very complex. It’s important that you evaluate a family lawyer not just for what they do in court but how they treat you as you work with them. A good family lawyer has excellent communication skills both in listening to your claim and in explaining your legal options.
Give Your Family Law Attorney a Call
Once you’ve found a family law attorney in Powhatan (or whatever area you are in), contact them. Many lawyers in our local Richmond area have a contact form on their website. If not, their phone number is usually not too hard to find.
If they’re like us (Cravens & Noll is also a local Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, Colonial Heights, and Harrisonburg family law attorney with years of experience in these county courts and the counties surrounding them), you’ll be greeted by a friendly receptionist that will set up a consultation for you. The consultation will help them gather the information they need so they can handle your case. Feel free to schedule your consultation with one of our family law attorneys today.
And with that, your search for a family law attorney is complete!
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
October 8, 2025
What Are The Stages of Separation in Divorce
Understanding The Stages of Separation in Midlothian with Cravens & Noll
In Virginia, a no-fault divorce requires you to be separated from your spouse for at least one year. However, if you have a signed agreement and no minor children together, this period can be reduced to six months in your separation in Midlothian (and across Virginia).
During this phase, your marriage may feel like it’s in limbo. You might be uncertain about what is or isn’t allowed—both in your interactions with your spouse and in the dating world.
In some Virginia courts, legal separation doesn’t necessarily mean living under separate roofs. If you meet the standards for “in-home” separation, it may be considered valid. This typically requires physical separation—such as living in separate rooms or separate residences—and a clear intent to divorce. Proving separation while living under the same roof can be challenging, especially if you have children.
In practical terms, in-home separation means minimizing interactions that characterize a marital relationship. You and your spouse should no longer cook for each other, do each other’s laundry, or maintain joint bank accounts.
Despite the challenges of this period, there is a silver lining. The transition allows you and your spouse to emotionally process the end of your marriage, helping you navigate the stages of separation with greater clarity.
Like any significant loss, the end of a relationship involves a grieving process. The widely recognized five stages of grief, introduced by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross in her 1969 book On Death and Dying, apply to divorce as well. While everyone moves through these stages differently, most experience them in some form and order.
Denial: Struggling to Accept Finality
In the denial stage, you may find it difficult to accept that your marriage is truly ending. This is a natural response and part of making peace with your inner optimist. However, prolonged denial can be problematic if it leads you to rationalize the issues that led to the divorce in the first place.
Moving past denial means reaching certainty about your decision. You’ll be ready for the next stage once you fully accept that ending the relationship is the best course of action.
Anger: Struggling to Accept Peace
Once denial fades, anger often follows. Accepting that the divorce is happening may lead to frustration—whether at your spouse, yourself, or the circumstances that led you here. While these emotions may seem negative, they are a natural part of the process.
Acknowledging your anger without letting it consume you is key. Suppressing it can make the next stage—bargaining—even more challenging.
Bargaining: Struggling to Accept True Justice
Bargaining often arises as an attempt to find relief from the emotional discomfort of separation. You may entertain thoughts of reconciliation or be tempted to compromise your rights regarding custody, finances, or personal well-being.
It’s important to remember that, in Virginia, the separation period must be marked by an intent to divorce. If you waver in this commitment, it could impact your legal standing or lead to decisions that are not in your best interest. Reaffirming your certainty from the denial stage can help you navigate this phase wisely.
Depression: Struggling with Feeling Trapped
When bargaining fails to bring resolution, feelings of sadness or hopelessness can take hold. Recognizing that there’s no easy way to undo the separation in Midlothian can be disheartening, leading to a sense of entrapment.
While feeling down is normal, prolonged depression can affect your well-being. If it begins to impact your quality of life or leads to thoughts of self-harm, seek professional support. Divorce is challenging, but help is available, and you don’t have to face it alone.
Acceptance: Hope for Your Post-Divorce Future
Few people bypass the earlier stages and jump straight to acceptance. It takes time to fully process the emotional weight of a divorce. However, reaching acceptance is a powerful milestone. It enables you to move forward with clarity, free from resentment, self-doubt, or unnecessary compromises.
From a legal standpoint, approaching divorce proceedings from a place of acceptance positions you for the best possible outcome. Our team of experienced divorce lawyers serving Richmond, Chesterfield, and Harrisonburg, Virginia, is here to support you in securing a fair and favorable post-divorce arrangement.
If you have questions about divorce in Virginia, explore our website or contact us for more information.
Cravens & Noll – Your Lawyers For Life
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
September 24, 2025
How Do I Know What Type of Family Law Attorney I Need in Powhatan?
When you think of family law, what kind of cases do you think this covers? Divorce? Child custody? Family Law covers a fairly wide net of legal issues revolving around familial disputes. While divorce and child custody cases are the most common in Powhatan, this branch of the law also includes adoption, marriage contracts and guardianships. Because family law in Powhatan (and everywhere) is so diverse, you need to make sure you pick the right attorney for your case. In this blog post, we’ll explain why certain cases require specialized attorneys and the skills necessary to help you and your family.
1. Divorce Attorney in Powhatan
Going through a divorce can be a painful and stressful time. That’s why it’s important to have a lawyer who specializes in the field.
A good divorce lawyer is someone who fights for the best interests of yourself and your family. They have a deep understanding of marriage contracts and how to best navigate the court proceedings. Divorce can include the issues of property, retirement, spousal support, as well as child custody and child support.
You should also feel comfortable with your divorce lawyer. They will be a close confidant during the case and you need to be able to tell them personal details about your life and marriage.
2. Child Custody Attorney
Similar to a divorce lawyer, a child custody attorney fights for what’s best for your child and the family. They help develop a parenting plan that is in the child’s best interest and works to resolve any disputes between the parents. Custody lawyers deal with issues of where the child primarily lives, visitation issues, as well as child support and serves as a main sector of family law in Powhatan and beyond.
Usually, your divorce lawyer will also cover your child custody case. Because of this, it’s even more important to choose a lawyer that you are comfortable with. They need to be able to speak with and understand your children while being respectful towards them.
3. Marriage and Civil Union Attorney
Marriage is well known for its beautiful outfits and romantic displays. What is less well known are the legal contracts tied to the ceremony.
When you are married, you are creating a contract between yourself, your spouse and the state. This contract determines your joint ownership of both your property and your debts. Marriage also offers you federal protections. An attorney can work with you on a pre-marital agreement, also known as a pre-nuptial agreement. The attorney can also work with you after the marriage starts with a post-marital agreement. These two agreements involve how separate and joint property will be handled in the event of a divorce, as well as other financial issues like spousal support.
A civil union, on the other hand, is a legal relationship that does not offer federal protections and isn’t recognized by every state including Virginia.
This is where a marriage attorney comes in handy.
An attorney can help you and your spouse reach an agreement on these contracts. You both can make sure you understand your division of property before the marriage, during the marriage, and, in the unfortunate event of a divorce, after the marriage.
4. Domestic and Child Abuse Attorney in Powhatan
Domestic and child abuse is not to be taken lightly, which is why you need a lawyer who knows how to navigate these sensitive cases. While these issues can be a part of divorce or custody cases, abuse is an entirely separate issue that can be decided and defended in court.
Whether you’re trying to escape an abusive situation or being falsely accused of abuse, you need a qualified attorney on your side. An attorney can help you file a restraining order known as an Order of Protection to help ensure you or your child’s safety.
5. Adoption and Guardianship Attorney
If you’re trying to adopt or put a child up for adoption, there are some legal barriers you have to understand. These include legal documentation and finding the right adoption agency.
These proceedings can become more complex when dealing with guardianship. For instance, guardianship cases become more difficult to navigate if you’re a guardian for someone with developmental issues. If the person is an adult or under another person’s guardianship, there are additional steps to take.
In both cases, it’s important to have an attorney with years of experience on your side to help you navigate through the legal proceedings. From signing the proper documents to understanding how to argue in court, a lawyer is helpful every step of this process.
Find Your Family Law Powhatan Attorneys at Cravens & Noll
It’s important to find a family law lawyer that meets your specific needs, but those needs can go beyond the court. Your lawyer should be easy to talk to and one who can explain the legal side of cases to you. You should feel comfortable speaking to them about sensitive issues, especially in cases of divorce or abuse.
You need a lawyer who is reliable and responsible, someone who will be there to answer all your questions and help you when needed.
Cravens & Noll attorneys have decades of experience in Virginia family law and always put their client’s interests first. If you’re in need of a family attorney in Richmond and surrounding areas, schedule a consultation with us.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
September 10, 2025
What Should Be Included in a Divorce Settlement
Getting a divorce can be a long and difficult process. Emotions are high as you end what you thought would last forever. One of the most contested yet important parts of a divorce is writing up the divorce settlement agreement. This process involves sitting down with your ex-spouse and determining how you both will split your assets. Reaching an agreement can be stressful, especially if the other party is uncooperative or you go in without a plan. You may not fully understand what should be included in the agreement. While there are plenty of assets that need to be split between a divorced couple, there are some common items that every agreement should include. This post will help to dispel any general questions or concerns you might have about creating a divorce settlement agreement in Midlothian.
How A Divorce Attorney Can Help You
A lawyer argues for your best interests. These agreements can be made before or after you officially separate, but it’s recommended that you complete the agreements.
This helps the divorce process go smoothly, helping you avoid any extra lawyer fees or complications in court.
It’s recommended that you hire a family law attorney to advise you during the agreement proceedings. Your attorney will fight for your rights and help both you and your spouse reach a compromise on certain points.
How Does a Divorce Settlement Work?
When you and your spouse decide to separate, you both need to determine who gets what assets and, if with children, how you both plan to support them.
The point of a divorce settlement agreement is to put these plans in writing to make them legally binding.
Every marriage is different, meaning your separation in Midlothian isn’t going to look like anyone else’s. While there are common elements of each divorce settlement, like splitting assets and determining child support, you should consider what you both want, specifically.
Begin By Gathering Necessary Documentation
You should gather as much documentation or information as it relates to salaries over the past several years, values of investments, amounts of debt, and values of real estate, and tax returns. You do not have to have every document before meeting with an attorney, but it is helpful to begin the drafting of a divorce agreement if you have this information.
Be as Detailed as Possible in Your Agreement
When starting your divorce agreement in Midlothian, it’s important to include as much relevant information as possible.
This information helps the court to understand the conditions of your marriage and separation.
While you should consult with an attorney to make sure you don’t leave anything out, here are some standard pieces of information to include:
- Date of your marriage
- Date of your separation
- Why you’re getting divorced
- If you have any, the names and ages of your children
- Your current living arrangements and addresses
Find and Divide Your Assets
This is when tensions begin to rise in a divorce proceeding. It’s important to fairly divide the assets between each spouse. These assets include any properties or debts shared by the spouses.
This can include cars or houses, along with their respective loans and payments. This is where having an attorney comes in handy.
They will:
- Protect your best interests during these proceedings
- Help you both figure out all of your assets
- Help you accurately divide them.
As you both figure out how to split your shared assets, it’s important to compromise on certain items and stay steadfast on others.
Deciding Child Custody
Child custody is probably the most contested agreement in any divorce.
Deciding child custody and creating a parenting plan are emotionally charged discussions between two spouses. You both love your children and want what’s best for them.
Be sure to figure out the plan that’s best for them, not yourselves.
You can choose between one parent having sole and physical custody, joint legal custody with one parent have primary custody, shared legal and physical custody, and split custody
Sole custody:
- One parent is the physical custodian and decision maker, while the other is given reasonable access to the child for visitation
Joint Legal Custody:
- Both parents have equal say for important decisions, one parent has physical custody and the other parent has visitation.
Shared Custody:
- Both parents share equally say for important decisions, and both parents have significant time with the child/children.
- Does not have to be 50/50, it can be that one parent has weekends during school and equal time during the summer. The custodial time can vary depending on the parent’s schedules and the best interest of the children.
- If both parents can work reasonably well together, this is often times the best for the children.
Split custody:
- Is fairly rare
- It involves one parent being responsible for one child, while the other is responsible for another child.
- This plan is usually only used in special circumstances, like if there are many children or if the child is old enough to make their own decisions.
Agreeing on Child and Spousal Support in Virginia
When determining how much should be paid towards child support, the amount is based on what state you’re in.
Virginia has a calculator to determine how much child support one may have to pay depending on incomes, health insurance and daycare costs.
Spousal support is much more difficult to determine. This is often times the most difficult issue to negotiate and settle in a divorce agreement.
While you cannot keep a child from receiving support, you can waive your spousal support, also known as alimony.
Double Check Everything In The Settlement
Before you turn in your divorce settlement, make sure you double check everything in the document.
Make sure all of your spelling and grammar is correct and that both you and your spouse agree on the terms.
This is one of the most important steps of the divorce process. Once the agreement is legally binding, it is what the legal system will refer to when issues with your separation are brought forward.
Divorce Agreement Attorney
Deciding your divorce settlement agreement in Midlothian can be stressful and time-consuming. That’s why you need an attorney you can trust to fight for your best interests.
The divorce attorneys at Cravens and Noll have years of experience in handling all parts of a separation case.
Contact us to schedule a consultation so we can help you during this difficult moment in your life.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
April 1, 2025
Cravens & Noll, PC: Representing Family in Wrongful Death Lawsuit Against Colonial Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center
Cravens & Noll, P.C. announces the filing of a wrongful death civil lawsuit against Colonial Heights Rehabilitation and Nursing Center on behalf of the family of Geraldine Richardson, a 78-year-old former resident who died from complications related to severe pressure ulcers and septic infection.
The lawsuit alleges that Ms. Richardson, who initially entered the facility with dementia and difficulty walking for rehabilitation services, sustained fatal injuries as a direct result of negligence by the nursing home, its ownership, and specific medical staff.
“Ms. Richardson was placed in the rehab facility to get care, to get help to re-learn to walk,” stated Joe Cravens, President of Cravens & Noll and lead attorney representing the Richardson family. “During her time there, she went from almost ambulatory to death by stage 4 ulcers with necrotic tissue, through the skin and septic infection through the muscle tissue throught to the spinal bones.”
According to the lawsuit, Ms. Richardson developed severe pressure ulcers measuring approximately 6 inches wide with blackened necrotic tissue and foul-smelling drainage. The suit alleges that despite knowing Ms. Richardson required position changes every two hours, the facility provided little to no purposeful turning or repositioning.
Additional allegations include:
- Failure to provide adequate nutrition
- Improper retention of Ms. Richardson despite knowledge that the facility was incapable of meeting her medical needs
- Negligent care that directly contributed to her declining condition and ultimate death
This civil lawsuit comes amid a separate criminal investigation involving the facility regarding the death of another resident under similar circumstances.
“When healthcare facilities accept non-ambulatory patients, people who cannot move on their own, they absolutely must provide the necessary care, including repositioning these individuals every two hours,” added Cravens. “There is no question about this standard of care.”
The lawsuit names Innovative Healthcare Management as the facility’s owner, though recent court testimony from a nurse investigator at the Virginia Attorney General’s Office indicated the current ownership may be Medical Facilities of America (MFA).
You can watch local news on this case from WWBT – NBC 12 On Your Side or from WTVR CBS 6 News.
About Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Cravens & Noll P.C. is a highly rated and award-winning law firm founded in 1991. They have protected and served the rights of over 25,000 people throughout Virginia across 4 decades in business. With 4 offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, Cravens & Noll represents clients across several practice areas, including personal injury, civil litigation, divorce, criminal defense, business law, wills and estates, traffic & DUI, bankruptcy, and more.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
November 21, 2024
Fighting For Justice: Cravens & Noll P.C. Demands Settlement for Desmond Johnson – Altria Theater Graduation Day Shooting Victim
Fighting For Justice: Cravens & Noll P.C. Demands Settlement for Desmond Johnson – Altria Theater Graduation Day Shooting Victim
In a press conference held on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 Cravens & Noll, PC, representing client Desmond Johnson, updated the media on the traumatic shooting incident that occurred during the Huguenot High School graduation on June 6, 2023, and called for accountability from the City of Richmond.
Legal Demands and Allegations
Lead counsel and partners at Cravens & Noll, P.C., Tameka Robinson and David Noll, delivered a powerful statement, asserting that the City of Richmond bears direct responsibility for the incident. The key allegations include:
- Gross negligence in allowing an at-risk student to attend the event
- Failure to follow established safety protocols
- Systemic breakdown in school safety management
Our legal team made it clear that their settlement demand extends beyond the school system, targeting the entire City of Richmond. The message was unequivocal: either reach a fair settlement or we will move forward in court to allow a jury to determine fair compensation.
Recordings and media coverage from the press conference are linked below:
- https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/i-was-just-waiting-to-take-my-last-breath-huguenot-high-school-graduation-shooting-victim-takes-legal-action-against-city-of-richmond/
- https://www.12onyourside.com/2024/11/20/graduation-shooting-survivor-asks-city-compensation/
- https://www.wtvr.com/news/local-news/graduation-day-survivor-lawsuit-nov-19-2024
What’s Next
Cravens & Noll has made their position clear: we are committed to fighting for justice for Desmond Johnson and his family while holding the City of Richmond accountable for what they describe as preventable circumstances.
For more information on this case please contact our legal team at Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Phone: 804-330-9220 or click here.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
February 16, 2021
What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Adultery in Virginia
20-40% of marriages end because of adultery in the United States. According to a study released in 2018 by the Institute for Family Studies, 20% of married men and 13% of married women have admitted to having intercourse with someone besides their spouse.
While adultery may not be as common as media and popular culture makes it out to be, it is still devastating if you find out your spouse is seeing someone else behind your back. In Virginia, adultery is a “fault” grounds for divorce and can be used to start your divorce proceedings immediately.
Before you start driving to the courthouse, it is important to have evidence before beginning your divorce proceedings. Virginia requires a lot of evidence for adultery, and your case for adultery may not be successful if you do not have the evidence the court requires.
If you believe your spouse is cheating on you, make sure to be prepared before filing for divorce.
How Adultery is Defined in Virginia
Every state has their laws and definitions of adultery. In Virginia, adultery is defined by the law as “Any person, being married, who voluntarily shall have sexual intercourse with any person not his or her spouse shall be guilty of adultery.”
Under this law, adultery is considered a Class 4 misdemeanor, making it a criminal act. While most spouses accused of adultery do not receive criminal charges during divorce proceedings, this still shows how seriously adultery is taken in Virginia courts.
While adultery is a serious charge, it also requires serious evidence to use as the basis for your divorce. The state requires “clear and convincing” evidence to grant a divorce under these grounds. This means you need substantial proof that your spouse has had sexual intercourse with another person.
What Evidence Do You Need?
While adultery is a serious charge, it also requires serious evidence to use as the basis for your divorce. The state requires “clear and convincing” evidence to grant a divorce under these grounds.
On top of this, the accused spouse can invoke their Fifth Amendment right and refuse to give any self-incriminating evidence to the court. This means you need substantial proof that your spouse has had sexual intercourse with another person.
The key is to prove that the spouse did act on their infidelity and did not just plan it. While you can use as much incriminating evidence as you want, only a few can serve as the backbone of your divorce case.
- Confession: One form of proof is a confession from the spouse that committed adultery. If you have a voice message, text, or email from them admitting to the infidelity, this can form the core of your argument.
- Corroboration: Virginia requires corroboration of evidence in a divorce proceeding. This means you need a piece of evidence or testimony from a source outside the marriage. Most people resort to a private investigator to gather testimony and photographic evidence.
- Incriminating messages: Access to emails or text messages between your spouse and the other person can only strengthen your argument. While talking about a romantic dinner or planning to visit a hotel are not evidence that anything happened, they can back up the more definitive pieces of evidence.
These are common examples of evidence used in adultery divorce cases. It is important to speak with an experienced family law attorney before building your case and gathering evidence. This attorney can help you gather the best evidence for your case and build the strongest argument possible.
Common Defense for Adultery Charges
No matter how strong your evidence is, it is important to note that the accused spouse can defend adultery accusations in a few ways. There are in fact 4 ways the accused spouse can defend themselves in court when accused of adultery.
- Condonation: If a spouse finds out about the adultery and decides to continue the relationship, that’s condonation. Essentially, if you find out that your spouse has cheated and decide to stay with them, you cannot use adultery as grounds for divorce.
- Connivance/Procurement: One defense is if the “innocent” spouse encourages and facilitates the affair. So, if you intentionally planned or encouraged the infidelity, then adultery cannot be used in your divorce case.
- Recrimination: If both spouses are cheating, and the accused can prove it, then your adultery argument can be thrown out. Of course, the other spouse has the same challenges as you to prove adultery, so this defense is equally difficult to use.
- Time-barred: Adultery has a 5-year statute of limitations in Virginia. So, if the infidelity occurred more than 5 years ago, you cannot use it as the basis for a divorce.
It is important to consider every side of your specific situation and take note if your spouse could use these defenses against you.
Defend Yourself with Experience
As you have seen, adultery is not only a serious offense under Virginia law, but it also requires plenty of clear and decisive evidence to prove in a divorce case. Worst of all, the accused spouse has many avenues to use to defend themselves from the accusation, which can ruin your case in an instant.
Because the proceedings can be so sensitive, it is important to have an experienced family attorney on your side. They can use their expertise to create a case based on your specific situation, advising you on what evidence to gather and what steps to take to give yourself a fighting chance in court.
If you are looking for an accomplished and knowledgeable family law attorney, look no further than Cravens and Noll.
Our family law attorneys care about your family getting the compensation and safety it deserves and will work with you to reach the best possible outcome. They can call on decades of experience to offer you the best legal defense.
Schedule a consultation to begin building your divorce case.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
February 2, 2021
Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Bankruptcy In Virginia
Do I Need a Lawyer to File for Bankruptcy in Virginia?
For many, bankruptcy can seem like their last option to save them from mounting debt. If you decide to begin the process of filing for bankruptcy, you may not want to spend money or just want to try to save money. Therefore, you might consider not hiring a bankruptcy lawyer to represent you in court.
While you may think it is cost-effective to not hire an attorney in the short-term, you will pay way more in the long term if anything goes wrong during the filing process. Filing for bankruptcy is a complicated process that requires many steps and knowledge to properly navigate. Any wrong step can throw out your case or lead to an unfavorable outcome. Worse yet, if you do not know the laws, you could put your property at risk.
Before you decide to go in alone, it’s important to understand what it takes to file for Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Can You Legally File for Bankruptcy Yourself?
The short answer is yes.
There is nothing legally keeping you from filing for bankruptcy and representing yourself in court. This is called Pro Se, or “filing on your own”.
It is possible to represent yourself, but it requires a lot of time, knowledge, and management skills to successfully pull off.
What Can Go Wrong When Filing for Bankruptcy?
Filing for bankruptcy is a time consuming and complex process that requires a lot of paperwork and time management skills. Many things can go wrong along the way, and you need to have a clear idea of how every step works and what’s required of you.
Because of this complexity, filing either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 requires specific knowledge, paperwork and information and deal in different types of asset management. It can be a lot to handle if your sole focus isn’t on the case.
Here’s what can go wrong:
- File for the wrong chapter: The most common bankruptcy chapters are Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Both types come with different requirements and solve specific problems with your debt. That’s why it’s important to fully understand your situation so you file for the correct chapter.
- Fail to file all of the required documents: In order to properly file for bankruptcy, you have to complete many lengthy forms from different sources. There’s the federal packet which you’ll find anywhere, along with your local forms provided by the court. If any document is not turned in, your case will be dismissed.
- Fail to file on time: Even if you do complete all of the required documents, you still need to turn them in to the proper parties at the specific due time. If you fail to do so, your case can be dismissed.
- Failing to protect property: Part of filing for bankruptcy is taking advantage of property exemptions. Yet, it’s very easy to forget some properties or fail to list the proper exemption. This puts you at risk for losing your valuable property if left unprotected.
- Failing to take required courses: An important step in filing for bankruptcy is taking the required credit counseling courses from approved providers. If you fail to take the proper financial management course, or don’t file the right certificate, then your case can quickly be dismissed.
- Fail to properly defend against motions for adversary actions: While most Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases go fairly smoothly if done properly, there’s always the chance that something can go wrong. One of your creditors can challenge whether a debt can be discharged, or the bankruptcy trustee can accuse you of committing fraud. If any of your documents or court motions are filled out improperly, you risk losing your case.
The Benefits of a Bankruptcy Attorney
Bankruptcy cases are complicated no matter what chapter you file for the amount of assets and debts you have. Because of this, it’s always a good idea to consult with an attorney before taking the first step. At Cravens & Noll, we do not charge a fee for the initial consultation. A skilled and experienced bankruptcy attorney can help you:
- Find the right bankruptcy chapter for your situation
- Keep track of the documents and financial information you need to file
- Direct you to the right courses and certifications
- Create a repayment plan that’s within your best interests and appeases the court
- Defend you in court in case a creditor, trustee, or judge tries to push back
- Ensure from the outset that you will receive a discharge and relief from your debt
Consult Richmond’s Finest Bankruptcy Attorneys
When you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, make sure to call the bankruptcy attorneys at Cravens and Noll. Your initial consultation is at no cost. There really is no reason not to take some time to see how we can help you.
Our Richmond based law firm has decades of in-court experience in both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. We work with you throughout the entire process, defending your best interests and ensure you get back on your feet with a fresh financial start and use your time to focus on other important things in your life.
Schedule a consultation to start taking control of your financial situation.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
January 5, 2021
What You Need to Do to File for Bankruptcy
For many people in debt, it can feel like they have nowhere left to turn. After amounting various debts, like late mortgage payments or mounting credit card debt, it can seem impossible to get out of that hole.
One option is to declare bankruptcy. Despite many people filing for bankruptcy, the term and process still has a scary connotation behind it.
Bankruptcy is designed to give debtors a second chance to rebuild their finances with as little stress as possible.
Still, the process of declaring bankruptcy still has some secrecy behind it, and is not without consequences.
In this post, we’ll look at exactly what happens and what you need for when you declare bankruptcy.
Understanding Bankruptcy in Virginia
Before you file for bankruptcy in Virginia, it’s important to understand exactly what it is and how it affects you.
Bankruptcy is a legal process that works to help you pay off your debts. This can be through reduced monthly payments, restructuring your finances or, in rare cases, eliminating your debt.
You can either file on your own, or hire a bankruptcy attorney to help you navigate through the proceedings. With an attorney on your side, they can help you determine what type of bankruptcy you should file under.
Going Through the Filing Process
Before you can officially declare bankruptcy, there are a few steps you need to take. The first one is prior to contacting a lawyer, the others are with the assistance of a lawyer.
1. Gather Your Complete Financial Records
Before working with anyone, it’s important to have a full understanding of your financial situation. You have to compile your total debts, assets, expenses and income.
You’ll not only have a grasp on your own finances, but this will help your advisors and the court to understand your situation.
2. Meet with a Bankruptcy Counselor
In the U.S, anyone filing for bankruptcy is required to attend bankruptcy counseling at least 180 days before filing. At Cravens & Noll, after you meet with our bankruptcy attorney, we will refer you to the credit counseling company that you can complete the court required course.
This shows that you have done everything to try and avoid bankruptcy. The counselor must be approved by the U.S. Courts, and these classes can usually be done online or over the phone.
Once you’ve received your certification, We will obtain the certificate to file along with your other bankruptcy paperwork.
3. File Your Bankruptcy Petition
It’s time to actually file for bankruptcy. At this point, it’s highly recommended that you hire an attorney.
While not required, an experienced bankruptcy attorney can help your case by explaining various laws, the judicial process and legal representation in the court. We work along side our clients to ensure every step of the process is handled professionally and correctly.
4. Meeting of Creditors / Trustee Hearing
Once your bankruptcy petition is accepted by the court, you’ll be assigned a court trustee. The trustee then sets up a meeting between yourself, your bankruptcy lawyer and the creditors.
It is rare that creditors show up at this meeting, rather it is primarily for the trustee to ask you questions and have you swear under oath that all of the information in your bankruptcy paperwork is correct and true.
It’s important that when you do decide to file, you follow the proper steps. If you fail to do so, it could affect the outcome of your case.
Meet With Our Experienced Bankruptcy Attorneys
Now that you understand how to file for bankruptcy, it’s time to get your affairs in order. Before starting this process, it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. With a lawyer in your corner, they’ll be able to answer any of your questions, help you get on the right track and represent you in court. The bankruptcy attorneys at Cravens & Noll have years of experience in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases.
Contact us today to set up an initial meeting, and begin your journey towards freedom from debt.
At Cravens & Noll, an experienced Virginia law firm, we are Your Lawyers For Life and have protected and served the rights of over 30,000 people just like you throughout Virginia across 4 Decades in Business. This is why we have been voted one of The Best Law Firms and The Best Attorney in Richmond by the Richmond Times-Dispatch.
We know that every legal case is always…personal. No matter what you are facing right now our attorneys will provide the solutions you need, at a reasonable price. Whether divorce, personal injury, criminal charges, or bankruptcy. We work hard to be your lawyers for life. That means giving your individual case the one-on-one attention and care it deserves.
Our team of trusted and local lawyers will never give false expectations about the potential outcome of your case. You can count on a realistic assessment of your case, in order for you to make a sound decision.
With offices in Richmond and Harrisonburg, we will assist you with dedicated and professional legal advice. In times like this, you need answers, stability, and confidence. Our calculated approach quickly evaluates and stabilizes your situation immediately to prepare you for the legal matters ahead. Our goal as your attorney is that you feel immediate relief from the moment you contact us. We can meet with you face-to-face, by video, by telephone, or together in our office.
Contact our Virginia attorneys today for a consultation. At your appointment, we will ease the burden on your shoulders and provide you with options on how to proceed. Before taking a case, Cravens and Noll lawyers provide an initial consultation for clients.
