Year-End Family Law Checklist: What Every Virginia Family Should Do Before January
As the year winds down, most people focus on holidays and new beginnings. But for families navigating divorce, custody, or support issues, December is also the perfect time to take stock of your legal and financial affairs.
A few simple steps can save you time, money, and stress in the year ahead — especially if your family’s situation has changed.
Here’s a practical year-end checklist to make sure your Virginia family is legally prepared for the new year.
1) Review Your Court Orders and Agreements
Start by reading through your existing:
Custody and visitation orders
Support orders (child and spousal)
Marital Settlement Agreement (MSA) or separation agreement
Ask yourself:
Are the arrangements still working?
Has income, employment, or a child’s schedule changed?
Are there recurring disagreements that might require modification?
If you notice gaps or ongoing tension, this is a great time to schedule a legal review in early January.
2) Check on Child Support and Spousal Support
Make sure all payments are up-to-date and properly documented. If you receive support, confirm that it has been paid according to the order. If you pay support, ensure that wage withholding or transfers are accurate.
If your financial circumstances have changed — or you suspect your former spouse’s have — you may need to modify support for the upcoming year.
3) Update Parenting and Holiday Schedules
As children grow, their needs and activities evolve. Review your parenting plan:
Are pick-up and drop-off times still practical?
Do holidays and school breaks need adjusting?
Has a change in work schedule created conflict?
Courts prefer parents to agree on updates voluntarily, so taking time now can prevent stress next holiday season.
4) Review Property and Financial Accounts
After a divorce or separation, it’s essential to keep financial accounts in order:
Remove ex-spouses from joint accounts.
Update beneficiaries on life insurance and retirement plans.
Verify deeds, vehicle titles, and bank accounts are correctly titled.
Review your credit report for accuracy.
These details protect your financial independence and prevent future disputes.
5) Revisit Your Estate Plan
Divorce and separation automatically affect wills and beneficiary designations, but many people forget to finalize the updates.
Make sure you:
Draft a new Last Will and Testament
Update powers of attorney and healthcare directives
Name new executors or trustees if needed
These documents ensure your wishes are honored and that outdated appointments don’t create problems later.
6) Review Tax Implications
Tax season comes fast after the holidays. Double-check:
Which parent claims the child tax credit
Whether you qualify to file as head of household
How alimony or property transfers may affect your return
A quick consultation with a tax professional now can prevent headaches later.
7) Schedule a Legal Check-In
Even if things are going smoothly, scheduling a brief annual check-in with your family law attorney can give you peace of mind.
Li-Shann Durst often helps clients confirm their orders, update agreements, or prepare documentation for upcoming transitions — such as college expenses or remarriage.
Start the New Year with Clarity
If it’s been more than a year since you reviewed your legal documents, now is the time.
📞 Contact the Law Office of Li-Shann Durst at (703) 443-4762 or schedule a confidential consultation.
A short legal review today can help you enter the new year confident, organized, and prepared for whatever comes next.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Please consult an attorney for advice specific to your situation.
