Simply so, does WV require separation before divorce?
There is no separation requirement before divorce EXCEPT for divorces on “One Year Separation.” However, every divorce petition must give the date the spouses “last lived together.” The “period of separation” can be important in a variety of ways.
In this regard, who gets the house in a divorce in WV?
Generally speaking, each party getting about half of the marital property is considered a fair judgment. Still, a court could decide that an unequal property split is fair, especially in cases of one spouse alleging some fault on the part of the other spouse.
What can be used against you in a divorce?
Spending marital money on extramarital affairs. Transferring marital funds to another person before a separation. Spending unreasonable amounts on business expenditures. Selling marital assets below the market value.
Can you date while separated in West Virginia?
No. As long as the spouses consider the marriage over, do not intend to reconcile, and do not have a sexual relationship, they may seek a divorce even if they are living under the same roof. Divorce paperwork is filed in the Circuit Clerk’s office in the county courthouse.
How much does divorce cost in WV?
The court fees for filing the paperwork for a basic divorce in a West Virginia court is $135.00. However, the total costs for a divorce can be much higher – especially in the case of a contested divorce, where attorney fees and mediation costs average from $15,000 to $20,000 or more.
What are grounds for divorce in West Virginia?
Fault grounds differ from state to state, but the most common include adultery, physical or mental abuse, addiction, and a criminal conviction. All states allow divorcing spouses to request a no-fault divorce, which means neither spouse is to blame for the divorce.
How long does alimony last in WV?
Here in West Virginia, there are four classes of alimony: Permanent spousal support — This is an award of support for the lifetime of the recipient. Temporary spousal support, or pendente lite — This support order is in force during the divorce process and lasts until the court issues a final divorce decree.
Is alimony mandatory in West Virginia?
You should talk to an experienced West Virginia Divorce Attorney. Married couples in West Virginia may request that the court award alimony in any divorce or legal separation, according to West Virginia Code section 48-8-101. The court may require either party to pay spousal support.
Is there alimony in West Virginia?
In the state of West Virginia, spousal support, otherwise known as alimony, may be declared through a court order, an antenuptial agreement, or a separation agreement. Spousal support may be paid as a lump sum or as periodic installments, as required by the court.
How does adultery affect divorce in West Virginia?
West Virginia law is very clear that in fault-based divorces, the judge shall (must) take adultery into account when making alimony decisions. The judge can adjust the amount or duration of an alimony award when a spouse has committed adultery.