Family Law Services
Property Division Lawyer in Fredericksburg, Virginia
Dividing marital property during divorce can quickly become contentious. Who keeps the house. How are complex assets valued and divided. Which assets are separate property. These questions are difficult to answer without experienced legal guidance.
Shawna L. Stevens PLLC helps clients throughout Fredericksburg, Stafford County, and Spotsylvania County protect their property interests through negotiation, settlement, and litigation when necessary.
Shawna L. Stevens
Property Division & Family Law Attorney • Fredericksburg, VA
Protecting Property • Equitable Distribution • Assets We Handle • Complex & High Net Worth • FAQs • Contact
How Can I Protect My Property During Divorce?
Dividing marital property is often one of the most stressful parts of divorce. Decisions about the marital home, retirement accounts, debts, and other assets can affect your financial stability for years.
At Shawna L. Stevens PLLC, we strive to help couples reach a property agreement whenever possible. Be assured, however, that we will go to trial to protect your interests if that is best for you. Our attorneys are skilled litigators who do not back away from a fight.
Identify What Is Marital vs. Separate
Determining whether assets are marital, separate, or mixed is a key first step and often impacts settlement leverage and trial strategy.
Protect the Marital Home
Questions about who keeps the house, whether it should be sold, and how equity is divided can become contentious without clear planning.
Value Complex Assets Correctly
Accurate valuation matters, especially when retirement accounts, businesses, investments, or high-value personal property are involved.
Resolve Disputes Without Unnecessary Risk
We work toward practical outcomes through negotiation, and we litigate when needed to protect your rights and financial future.
Valuing and Dividing Marital Property in Virginia
Virginia divides marital property through equitable distribution. This means the court decides what is equitable, or fair, in each case. While that may result in a 50/50 division in some situations, it may not. Each case is unique. We advocate for a division that is fair to you.
- Determine what property is marital, separate, or mixed
- Identify assets and debts that must be valued and divided
- Evaluate disputed valuations and supporting documentation
- Pursue settlement when appropriate and litigate when necessary
Assets and Debts Commonly Addressed in Property Division
Anything considered marital property, or mixed property (part marital and part separate), may need to be valued and divided. Our firm has experience with a wide range of assets and liabilities, including:
Real Estate
Homes, additional properties, and related equity considerations.
Vehicles and Personal Property
Vehicles, furnishings, and other household or personal assets.
Retirement and Long-Term Accounts
Retirement accounts, IRAs, pensions, and other long-term financial assets.
Financial Accounts and Debts
Bank accounts, investment accounts, credit obligations, and other debts.
High Net Worth Divorce and Complex Assets
We also handle high net worth divorces involving complex property issues, such as businesses, professional practices, stock options, investments, vacation homes, art, and high-end vehicles.
When necessary, we work with qualified professionals in accounting, real estate appraisal, business valuation, and other fields to support accurate valuation and a fair division of assets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Property Division
Is property always divided 50/50 in Virginia?
Not necessarily. Virginia uses equitable distribution, which focuses on what is fair under the circumstances.
What is the difference between marital and separate property?
Marital property is typically acquired during the marriage, while separate property may include assets owned before marriage or received as certain gifts or inheritances. Mixed property can also apply.
How are retirement accounts and pensions handled?
Retirement accounts and pensions may be divided depending on when contributions were made and whether they are considered marital, separate, or mixed.
How does property division relate to spousal support?
These issues are separate, but they often intersect in negotiations and financial planning. Learn more on our Spousal Support & Alimony page.
Get Answers to Your Property Division Questions
Our lawyers welcome your call to discuss your case. We can help you understand equitable distribution, protect your property interests, and pursue a fair resolution.
Phone: (540) 310-4088
Email: [email protected]
Address: 307 Lafayette Blvd, Suite 200, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Related services: Divorce • Child Custody • Child Support • Spousal Support