Family Law

Richmond Divorce and Custody Attorney

Resolutions and Litigation in Virginia Family Law Matters

The law firm of Spinella, Owings & Shaia is committed to sensible solutions while protecting clients’ rights in divorce, child custody and all related family law issues. Our attorneys provide compassion and experienced legal counsel during these emotional and complex proceedings.

Our lawyers represent clients in the metro Richmond area, including Midlothian and Brandermill. We invite you to arrange a confidential consultation.

Comprehensive and Experienced Representation

Spinella, Owings & Shaia handles every aspect of divorce and family law, in circuit court, domestic relations court or juvenile court:

• Divorce or annulment
• Division of marital assets and debts
• Spousal support
• Child custody and visitation
• Child support and enforcement
• Post-judgment modifications
• Step-parent adoption (and termination of parental rights)
• Establishing guardianship/conservatorship
• Paternity (establishing or challenging)
• Prenuptial agreements

In 30 years of family law practice, John G. Mizell, Jr. has helped hundreds of clients achieve workable solutions, through mediation, negotiation or litigation. He emphasizes out-of-court resolutions over the expense, unpredictability and long-term fallout of a court battle. However, if the other party is unreasonable or combative, he is a skilled litigator who can protect your interests and the best interests of your child in judicial proceedings. Mr. Mizell also has specialized training in basic mediation and family law mediation.

Custody and Visitation — We strive to bring parents to workable solutions regarding physical custody, legal custody and the details of co-parenting. When these issues cannot be amicably resolved, we are prepared to advance our client's agenda in custody litigation. Mr. Mizell has considerable experience in handling the especially challenging and sensitive area of custody relocation. Mr. Mizell also serves as a court-appointed guardian ad litem representing the interests of minor children in custody, neglect or abuse cases.

Equitable Distribution of Marital Property — Our attorneys are adept at determining accurate valuations of marital property, including the family home, retirement accounts, closely held business interests and other assets, and resolving discrepancies over whether certain assets are jointly or separately owned. They have handled large, complex marital estates, as well as cases with considerable debts and limited assets to divide.

At Spinella, Owings & Shaia, we try to resolve family law issues without creating future problems or unnecessary expense. This requires a lawyer who is knowledgeable, compassionate and creative. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Richmond or Midlothian offices, including after-hours appointments.