We provide self-help materials and legal guidance to help Virginians understand their rights in divorce, custody, visitation, and child support cases so they can advocate for themselves and their families with confidence. Our resources are designed to reduce confusion and make the legal system more accessible, especially for those navigating it without an attorney. We believe every parent deserves clear information and fair treatment during some of life’s most difficult transitions.
Our work in this area includes:
Family Law Education and Resources
We provide self-help resources and legal education to help individuals understand Virginia laws related to divorce, child custody, visitation, and financial support. Our goal is to make the legal system more accessible to everyone, especially those who can’t afford an attorney. We also:
- Offer plain-language legal information on divorce, custody, visitation, and support
- Help parents and caregivers understand their rights and responsibilities
- Connect Virginians to tools for navigating family court without legal representation
Free DIY Divorce Tool
Navigating divorce can be overwhelming. Our free DIY Divorce tool helps individuals take the first step toward a new chapter with clarity and confidence. This self-guided resource:
- Walks users through each step of filing for divorce in Virginia.
- Is designed for uncontested divorces with no minor children.
- Generates court-ready documents for filing without an attorney.
Guidance for Parenting Plans and Custody Disputes
Custody and visitation decisions deeply affect children and families. We offer clear, accessible resources to help parents understand their options and advocate for what’s best for their children. Our guidance helps families:
- Understand their legal rights in custody and visitation matters.
- Create parenting plans that support stability and cooperation.
- Prepare for court with practical tools and plain-language information.
Our Family Advocacy Team
Naomi Y. Cordova
Legal Administrative Assistant of Legal Assistance for Victim-Immigrants of Domestic Abuse (LA VIDA)
Valerie L’Herrou, Esq.
Deputy Director of the Center for Family Advocacy
Staff Attorney, Family & Child Welfare
Vanessa Paster, Esq.
Managing Attorney of Legal Assistance for Victim-Immigrants of Domestic Abuse (LA VIDA)
Susheela Varky, Esq.
Director of the Center for Family Advocacy and Legal Assistance for Victim-Immigrants of Domestic Abuse (LA VIDA)
Online Divorce Self-Help Tool
Featured:
Do-It-Yourself Divorce, Online
Divorce can be stressful, complicated, and sometimes costly. VPLC's online guided process makes it easier and more affordable by simplifying the paperwork and explaining legal requirements.
View the Tool
