Attorneys attending this training course will gain an in-depth understanding of the legal, procedural, and practical aspects of handling uncontested divorces in Virginia. Attorneys will learn the distinctions between contested and uncontested divorces, with a thorough review of relevant Virginia Code sections—particularly those governing grounds for divorce (§20-91), separation requirements, equitable distribution (§20-107.3), and service of process. The program covers complex jurisdictional issues, service options (including for incarcerated defendants), and key case law affecting uncontested divorce proceedings. Participants will also explore child custody, spousal and child support, property division, retirement benefits, and name changes in divorce. The course includes practical guidance on completing and filing necessary documents, recent updates to Virginia divorce law, and how to effectively use the Virginia Poverty Law Center’s Self-Help Tool during client interviews. By the end of the session, attorneys will be better equipped to efficiently and ethically handle uncontested divorces while navigating common pitfalls and ensuring compliance with Virginia’s legal requirements.

Alexandra Lydon

Anti-Human Trafficking Senior Staff Attorney

Legal Services of Northern Virginia

Alexandra (Alex) Lydon is the Anti-Human Trafficking Senior Staff Attorney at Legal Services of Northern Virginia (LSNV) who represents survivors of human trafficking in their civil legal cases. In her work with LSNV, she trains organizations and entities throughout Northern Virginia on human trafficking issues and is a member and leader in local human trafficking and LGBTQ task forces. In her spare time, Alex is a member of the Alexandria’s LGBTQ+ Task Force’s leadership team, a board member of and the Clinics Coordinator for the Virginia LGBTQ+ Bar Association, and the Immediate Past-President of the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Virginia. Alex received a law degree from the University of Richmond School of Law and Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Information Sciences from the University of Alabama