July 9, 2026
Your First Consultation With a Harrisonburg Car Accident Lawyer: What to Expect
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Many car accidents occur in Harrisonburg and the surrounding area, with a large number happening on I-81. If you’ve recently been in a car accident, the idea of sitting down with a lawyer might feel intimidating. But here’s the good news: Cravens and Noll offers free initial consultations. That first meeting is your chance to understand your rights, talk through your situation, and decide if the lawyer is a good fit for you. Think of it less like a test and more like a conversation. This blog will walk you through what to expect and how you can prepare so you feel confident heading into your first consultation.
Initial Case Review
The consultation usually starts with your story. Your lawyer will ask you to explain what happened, from the accident itself to what’s been going on since, including medical care, car repairs, lost work, and anything else that’s affected your life. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just give an honest account. This part is less about legal jargon and more about painting a clear picture of what you’ve gone through.
The attorney’s job at this stage is to figure out whether you have a case worth pursuing. They’ll listen carefully, ask follow-up questions, and get a feel for the details. Think of it as the groundwork for everything that comes next.
Sharing Key Documents & Evidence
The more information you bring, the better. This can include police reports, medical records, photos of the accident scene, insurance correspondence, and even notes you’ve kept about your recovery. If you don’t have everything gathered yet, that’s okay. Bring what you can, and your lawyer will help you understand what else will be useful down the road.
Many people are surprised to learn that even small details, such as a receipt from a rental car or texts from an insurance adjuster, can become important evidence. The consultation is a great time to organize and hand off anything you think might matter.
Explanation of Your Legal Rights
Laws around car accidents can feel complicated, but your lawyer will break them down for you in plain English. They’ll explain your rights when it comes to insurance claims, medical bills, and compensation for things like lost wages or pain and suffering.
This is one of the most valuable parts of the consultation: understanding where you stand legally. Even if you’ve read up on Virginia car accident laws online, hearing it directly from a professional who deals with these cases every day gives you clarity and peace of mind.
Case Strategy & Options
Once your lawyer has the facts, they’ll outline possible strategies for moving forward. That could mean negotiating directly with the insurance company, filing a lawsuit, or waiting to see how your recovery progresses before taking big steps.
Don’t expect every answer to be final in this first meeting. What you should expect is a roadmap, an overview of how the case could unfold and what paths are open to you. This is also when you can get a sense of your lawyer’s style. Do they seem aggressive in negotiation? Do they take a more measured approach? Finding a lawyer whose strategy matches your comfort level is just as important as the legal advice itself.
Fee Structure & Costs
Money is often one of the first concerns accident victims have, and it’s something your lawyer will address openly during the consultation. Most car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. That means you don’t pay anything up front, and the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case.
You’ll want to ask what percentage they take, whether there are additional costs (like filing fees or expert witnesses), and how those expenses are handled.
Q&A Session
The consultation is not just for the lawyer to evaluate your case. It is also your chance to ask questions. Here are a few good ones to consider:
- How many car accident cases have you handled that are similar to mine?
- How long do cases like this usually take?
- What challenges do you see in my case?
- How do you prefer to communicate: phone, email, or in-person meetings?
The answers can help you feel confident in your decision and make sure you’re comfortable with the lawyer’s communication style and approach.
Next Steps After the Consultation
By the end of the meeting, you should have a clear idea of what comes next. Sometimes that means the lawyer will begin investigating right away, requesting records, or contacting insurance companies. Other times, they might advise you to focus on medical treatment first before moving forward with legal action.
Either way, you’ll leave the consultation knowing what you need to do on your end and what your lawyer will handle for you. That clarity can feel like a weight lifted off your shoulders after the chaos of a car accident.
Call Cravens & Noll Today
Meeting with a lawyer for the first time doesn’t have to be overwhelming. When you know what to expect, including reviewing your case, sharing documents, learning your rights, discussing strategy, and asking questions, you’ll walk into the consultation prepared and confident.
At Cravens & Noll PC, we’re here to help you through the entire process, starting with that very first conversation. We proudly serve clients in Harrisonburg, Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and Colonial Heights. If you’ve been in a car accident and need trusted guidance, reach out today to schedule your free consultation.
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.
June 29, 2026
Navigating Truck Accident Litigation in Harrisonburg: A Complete Guide
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Truck accidents in Harrisonburg aren’t like typical fender benders. Especially when they occur on highway I-81. These crashes usually involve serious injuries, multiple parties who might share blame, and insurance companies that don’t back down easily. For someone already dealing with recovery, navigating the legal process can feel overwhelming. This guide walks through the steps of truck accident litigation in Harrisonburg so you know what to expect and how to protect your rights.
Why Truck Accidents Are More Complicated
When an accident involves an 18-wheeler or commercial truck, the stakes are higher. Trucks weigh tons more than passenger cars, which means injuries are often more severe. But beyond that, these cases are legally complex because responsibility doesn’t always fall on just one person. Unlike a regular car crash, where liability is usually pinned to a single driver, truck cases may involve the driver, the trucking company, the vehicle’s manufacturer, or even the cargo loaders. Each party has its own insurance carrier and legal team, which makes the process far more challenging.
Key Causes of Truck Accidents in Harrisonburg
Some of the most common reasons for truck crashes in the area include:
- Driver fatigue – Long hours on the road make exhaustion a constant risk.
- Improper maintenance – Skipping inspections or repairs can lead to brake failure or tire blowouts.
- Overloaded cargo – Unbalanced or overweight loads cause trucks to jackknife or tip.
- Distracted driving – Texting, eating, or adjusting navigation systems can all contribute.
- Hazardous road conditions – Sharp curves, construction zones, or poor weather can quickly turn dangerous when a truck is involved.
Understanding the cause is essential because it points to who may ultimately be responsible.
Who Can Be Held Liable in Truck Accident Litigation?
Liability in a truck accident isn’t always straightforward. Possible parties include:
- The truck driver, if they were negligent, speeding, or driving under the influence.
- The trucking company encourages unsafe schedules, skipped maintenance, and the hiring of unqualified drivers.
- The cargo company is investigating whether loading errors led to the crash.
- The manufacturer of a defective part, like brakes or tires, contributed to the wreck.
Since multiple defendants may be involved, determining liability is one of the first and most important steps in litigation.
Evidence in Truck Accident Litigation
Strong evidence is what sets apart a successful claim from a denied one. In truck accident cases, evidence may include:
- The truck’s black box data shows speed, braking, and hours driven.
- Maintenance logs and inspection records.
- Driver logs tracking hours on the road.
- Eyewitness testimony and police reports.
- Accident scene photos and video footage, if available.
Securing this evidence early is critical because companies may move quickly to protect themselves.
The Litigation Process in Harrisonburg
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how a truck accident lawsuit generally unfolds:
- Investigation – Collecting evidence and identifying liable parties.
- Filing the claim – Starting the official lawsuit.
- Discovery – Both sides exchange documents, evidence, and witness testimony.
- Negotiations – Many cases settle before trial, but negotiations can take time.
- Trial – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, the case may go before a jury.
Each stage takes patience, but knowing the process helps you stay prepared.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of truck accidents on the highway I-81 in Harrisonburg may be entitled to several forms of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Lost wages – Income lost during recovery, as well as future earning potential.
- Pain and suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle and belongings.
The severity of injuries and the details of the accident often dictate how much compensation may be pursued.
Why Local Legal Representation Matters
Truck accident litigation isn’t something you want to take on alone. Local attorneys who know the Harrisonburg courts, judges, and insurance defense tactics can make a big difference. They understand the regional nuances, know how to gather the right evidence quickly, and can anticipate the strategies of opposing counsel. Having that hometown advantage ensures you’re not fighting an uphill battle in unfamiliar territory.
Contact Cravens & Noll for Expert Assistance
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Harrisonburg, you don’t have to figure out the legal system by yourself. The attorneys at Cravens & Noll PC are here to guide you through every step, from investigation to settlement or trial. With offices in Harrisonburg, Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and Colonial Heights, they’re ready to help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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.
May 14, 2026
Injured in a Truck or Car Accident on I-81 Near Harrisonburg? Here Is What You Need to Know
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
If you live in or around Harrisonburg, you already know that Interstate 81 is not just a highway. It is part of your daily life. Whether you are commuting to work, heading to campus at JMU, or running errands in Rockingham County, chances are you are merging onto I-81 on a regular basis.
But I-81 isn’t like most highways. It carries an unusually heavy volume of tractor-trailers, far more than many other roads in Virginia, and that constant mix of passenger vehicles and freight traffic changes how it feels to drive. Add in the hills, curves, and congestion, and it’s no surprise that crashes, especially involving large trucks, are something many local drivers have seen firsthand. As a personal injury attorney in Harrisonburg who has handled accident cases across the Shenandoah Valley for years, I want to share a few things I wish more people understood before they ever call a lawyer.
Why I-81 Accidents Are Different
Here is something that surprises a lot of people: roughly 41% of all trucking traffic in Virginia travels on I-81 according to VDOT. That is more than I-95 through Northern Virginia and more than I-66. The highway was designed in the 1950s for far less traffic, and the rolling terrain of the Shenandoah Valley makes it even harder for semi-trucks to maintain consistent speeds on the hills between Staunton and Harrisonburg.
The result is a fatal accident rate on I-81 that is nearly double that of other Virginia interstates. We see multi-vehicle pileups, rear-end collisions at exit ramps, and jackknife trucks in bad weather far too often. When a fully loaded tractor-trailer hits a passenger vehicle, the injuries are almost always severe.
If you or a family member has been hurt in a truck accident or car accident near Harrisonburg, the legal situation is more complicated than a typical fender bender. Trucking companies have their own lawyers and insurance teams working the moment a wreck happens. You should have someone in your corner just as quickly.
The Insurance Company Is Not Looking Out for You
I cannot tell you how many times a new client has come into our Harrisonburg office after already receiving a settlement offer in the mail. Usually, it arrives within days of the accident, before the person even knows the full extent of their injuries. It looks like help. It feels like a relief. But it is almost always the bare minimum the insurance company thinks they can get away with.
Insurance adjusters are trained to sound sympathetic, but remember, their job is to close your file quickly and cheaply. Once you accept that check, it is final. Even if new injuries surface weeks later, your physical therapy stretches on longer than expected, or you find out you cannot return to work at all. That signed agreement does not reopen.
Our approach at Cravens & Noll is simple. We help our clients slow down, get the full picture, and make sure nothing is left on the table. We look beyond the accident report. We dig into what this injury means for your life, your ability to work, your family, and your long-term health. And we handle communication with the insurance company so you are not pressured into a decision before you are ready.
What to Do After an Accident on I-81
If you are involved in a crash on I-81 or anywhere in the Harrisonburg area, here are the steps that matter most in the days that follow.
- Get medical care right away, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask pain for hours or even days. Some of the most serious injuries from vehicle accidents, including soft tissue damage, concussions, and internal bleeding, do not show symptoms immediately. A medical record from that first visit also becomes important evidence later.
- Document everything. Photos of vehicles, the road, your injuries. Names of witnesses. Notes on how you feel each day. These details fade fast, and they matter when building a personal injury claim.
- Be careful with insurance statements. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company. Anything you say can and will be used to reduce your compensation. Talk to an accident attorney in Harrisonburg before you talk to them.
And remember, Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years. That may sound like a long time, but building a strong case takes time, and waiting too long can cost you.
Why a Local Personal Injury Law Firm Matters in Harrisonburg
Truck accident litigation in Harrisonburg is not the same as handling a case in Richmond or Northern Virginia. The courts are different. The judges are different. The roads are different. I-81 through the Shenandoah Valley has specific hazards, from steep grades near Staunton to congested merges around Route 33 and Exit 247, that someone unfamiliar with this area simply will not understand the way a local attorney does.
At Cravens & Noll, we have been part of the Harrisonburg community for years. Our firm was founded in 1995, and we have been serving the people of the Shenandoah Valley for years. We know the local courts. We know the roads. And we know what it takes to stand up to large trucking companies and their insurance teams on behalf of Valley families.
If you have been hurt in a vehicle accident on I-81 or anywhere in the Harrisonburg area, we are here to help.
Questions? Schedule Your Consultation with Bethany Rishell, Today! Phone: 540-246-0684
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.
May 7, 2026
Thinking About Divorce in Harrisonburg? What You Should Know Before You File
By Bethany Rishell Attorney | Cravens & Noll, P.C.
Nobody plans for a divorce. It is not something you put on a calendar or prepare for like a move or a new job. For most people, by the time they are seriously thinking about it, they have already spent months (sometimes years) trying to figure out whether there is another way. And once the decision is made, you are suddenly faced with a whole new set of questions you never expected to ask.
As a family law attorney in Harrisonburg who has worked with families in the Shenandoah Valley for decades, I want to walk you through what the divorce process looks like in Virginia, because understanding what is ahead can take some of the fear out of it.
Virginia Requires a Separation Period For “No-Fault” Divorces
One of the first things that catches people off guard is that Virginia does not allow you to simply file for divorce and be done with it. For a no fault divorce, you and your spouse must be separated for at least one year. If you have no minor children and both sign a written separation agreement, that period drops to six months. A “no-fault” divorce is one where there are no fault grounds such as adultery, desertion or abuse. Typically it is also when the parties can agree on all terms such as property, debt, and issues related to children.
Separation in Virginia means living apart with the intent that the separation is permanent. You might be wondering whether you can still live under the same roof during this time. Technically, yes, but proving separation while sharing a home is much harder and requires clear evidence that you were living separate lives. And if you share minor children within the home, it is almost definite that the Court will not consider you living separate and apart within the same home. If you are considering this route, it is important to talk to a divorce attorney in Harrisonburg before making assumptions about what counts.
Custody, Support, and Property Do Not Sort Themselves Out
Even when both spouses agree that divorce is the right decision, there are still often major issues that need to be resolved. Child custody and visitation. Child support. Division of property and debts. Spousal support. Each of these can become its own complicated conversation, and what feels fair in the moment does not always hold up over time.
I have seen too many situations where someone agreed to terms early on because they just wanted it to be over and then realized months later that they gave up more than they should have. A child custody lawyer in Harrisonburg can help you think through not just what works today, but what protects you and your children going forward. Custody arrangements, support calculations, and property agreements have long-term consequences, and getting them right the first time matters more than getting them done quickly.
Why Having a Multi-Practice Firm on Your Side Makes a Difference
Here is something a lot of people do not think about when they are searching for a family divorce law firm in Harrisonburg. Divorce does not affect your marriage. It can touch nearly every other part of your legal life. You may need to update your will and estate plan. If there is a family business involved, that brings a whole separate set of questions. If debt is part of the picture, bankruptcy might be worth discussing. And if there are any safety concerns, criminal law could overlap as well.
At Cravens & Noll, we are not a firm that only handles one thing. Our attorneys work across family law, estate planning, bankruptcy, personal injury, criminal defense, and more. That means when your divorce attorney spots an issue with your estate documents or flags a potential financial concern, you do not have to start from scratch with a new firm. We handle it in-house, with people who already know your situation.
Real life does not fit into neat little categories, and your legal support should not either.
What to Look for in a Harrisonburg Divorce Attorney
If you are starting to look for legal help, here is my honest advice on what to prioritize.
Find someone who listens. Family law is personal. Your attorney should understand your situation, your concerns, and what matters most to you before recommending a strategy.
Look for local experience. The family courts in and around Rockingham County work differently than courts in Richmond or Northern Virginia. An attorney who regularly practices in the local courts knows the procedures, the judges, and the expectations. That familiarity can make a real difference in how smoothly your case moves forward.
Ask about the full picture. A good family law attorney will not just handle your divorce paperwork. They should be thinking about your financial future, your children’s well-being, and whether there are other legal steps you should take at the same time.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
Divorce is one of the hardest things a family can go through, and it is okay to not have all the answers right now. That is what we are here for. Our team at Cravens & Noll has served the Harrisonburg community for decades, helping families move through difficult transitions with honesty, care, and the kind of personal attention that builds lasting trust.
If you are considering divorce or have questions about custody, support, or any family law matter, we would welcome the chance to sit down and talk it through.
Questions? Schedule Your Consultation with Bethany Rishell, Today! Phone: 540-246-0684
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 27, 2026
What Types of Insurance Coverage Are Available for Your Personal Injury Claim in Virginia?
By David Noll, Managing Attorney, Cravens & Noll, P.C.
After a car accident in Virginia, most people assume the insurance process is straightforward. You file a claim, the insurance company reviews it, and you get paid what you deserve.
If only it worked that way.
The truth is, understanding what coverage is actually available to you is one of the most important things you can do before you sign anything or accept a single dollar. Virginia’s insurance laws have changed significantly in recent years, and the rules are not always in your favor.
Our team at Cravens & Noll has handled thousands of personal injury cases across Richmond, the Tri-Cities, and the Shenandoah Valley, and we have seen firsthand what happens when injured people navigate this process alone.
Here is what you need to know about the types of insurance coverage available for personal injury claims in Virginia, and why having an experienced accident attorney in your corner matters more than ever.
Virginia Now Requires Every Driver to Carry Insurance
For years, Virginia had a unique and frankly frustrating loophole: drivers could pay a $500 fee to the DMV and legally operate an uninsured vehicle. That option is gone. As of July 1, 2024, Virginia joined almost every other state in the country by requiring all registered vehicle owners to carry auto liability insurance. If you are caught driving without it, you face a $600 noncompliance fine, potential license suspension, and a requirement to carry an SR-22 certificate for three years.
This change is good news for accident victims, but it does not mean every driver on the road carries enough coverage to fully compensate you after a serious crash. That is where understanding the layers of available coverage becomes critical.
Required Coverage in Virginia: Updated 2025 Minimums
Virginia raised its minimum liability coverage requirements effective January 1, 2025. These are now the legal minimums every insured driver must carry:
- Bodily Injury (BI): $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident. This coverage, carried by the at-fault driver, pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages up to the policy limit. The old minimum was $25,000 per person, which is woefully inadequate for serious injuries. The new limits are a step in the right direction, but they still may not cover everything after a catastrophic crash.
- Property Damage (PD): $25,000 per accident. This covers damage to your vehicle and other property caused by the at-fault driver.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UM/UIMBI): Minimum limits of $50,000 per person / $100,000 per accident, matching your BI limits. This coverage activates when the at-fault driver either has no insurance or does not have enough to cover your losses. Importantly, Virginia law changed the way UIM is calculated: it now pays in addition to the at-fault driver’s coverage rather than being reduced by it. That means more money available to seriously injured victims.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Property Damage (UM/UIMPD): Minimum limit of $25,000 per accident. This is the property damage equivalent of your UM/UIMBI coverage.
Keep in mind: these are floors, not ceilings. Many drivers still carry only the bare minimum, and medical bills from a serious accident in Virginia can easily exceed these numbers. The stronger your own uninsured/underinsured coverage, the better protected you are.
FR-44 Policies: Higher Requirements After a DUI Conviction
Drivers convicted of a DUI in Virginia are required to carry an FR-44 policy for a minimum of three years. These policies require double the standard minimum limits: $100,000 per person and $200,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage. If you were injured by a drunk driver, it is possible the at-fault driver carries higher limits than you might expect, which can affect how much compensation is ultimately available.
Optional Coverage That Can Make a Real Difference
Virginia law does not require drivers to carry every type of coverage. But the optional coverages below can be the difference between full recovery and a financial crisis after a serious accident:
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay): This pays your medical expenses regardless of fault, which means it applies even if you caused the accident. Limits typically range from $500 to $10,000. It can also cover funeral expenses in the event of a fatality. If you have MedPay on your own policy, you should access it, but do not let a hospital redirect the billing to your auto insurance in a way that drains these funds prematurely. Our team can help you protect these benefits.
- Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: These cover damage to your own vehicle, whether from a crash, theft, or another event. Both come with deductibles. If the at-fault driver’s property damage coverage is insufficient to cover your vehicle loss, your own collision coverage can step in after you pay your deductible.
What the Insurance Company Is Not Telling You
Here is something that does not appear in any insurance brochure: the adjuster calling to take your statement is not working for you. Their goal is to settle your claim quickly, at the lowest possible number, before you know the full cost of your injuries.
That check they offer early in the process looks appealing when bills are piling up. But once you sign a release, that is final, even if your condition worsens, even if you need surgery six months from now, even if you cannot return to work. The insurance company knows this. They are counting on you not knowing it.
Our job at Cravens & Noll is to slow that process down, get the complete picture, and make sure nothing is left behind. We calculate the real cost of your accident: not just the emergency room bill, but follow-up care, physical therapy, lost income, and the long-term impact on your life. Then we fight for that number, and the insurance companies know we are ready to take it to trial if negotiations fall short.
Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney in Richmond Before You Sign Anything
You do not have to figure out which coverage applies, which adjuster to call, or whether an offer is fair, all on your own. That is exactly what our team at Cravens & Noll is here for. We have spent decades in Virginia personal injury law, we know how these claims work, and we know when an insurance company is not being straight with you.
If you have been injured in an accident on I-95, in the Tri-Cities area, or anywhere in Central Virginia, contact our team for a free consultation. You will speak directly with an attorney, no intake coordinators, no runaround. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.
At Cravens & Noll, we will be your lawyers for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the minimum auto insurance requirements in Virginia in 2025?
As of January 1, 2025, Virginia requires all drivers to carry at least $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $100,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage must match those limits. Virginia also eliminated the option to drive uninsured by paying a DMV fee, effective July 1, 2024.
What does uninsured motorist coverage pay for in Virginia?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage pays for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance. Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver has insurance but not enough to cover the full cost of your injuries. Under Virginia’s updated law, UIM now pays in addition to whatever the at-fault driver’s policy covers.
Should I use MedPay or my health insurance after a car accident?
If you are hospitalized after a car accident, always use your health insurance first. Medical providers may ask you to assign your auto insurance benefits to them, but doing so can reduce the funds available for your overall personal injury recovery. Your MedPay benefits should remain accessible to you directly. Talk to an attorney before filling out any assignment of benefits forms at the hospital.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Virginia?
Virginia’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline generally means losing your right to sue. It is important to contact an accident attorney well before that deadline, because building a strong case takes time.
Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company already made me an offer?
Yes, especially if you have significant injuries. An early settlement offer from an insurance company is almost always the minimum they believe they can settle for, not the full value of your claim. Once you accept and sign, the case is closed. A personal injury attorney can evaluate whether the offer is fair based on the true cost of your injuries, and negotiate for full compensation before anything is signed.
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 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.
