The 3 Biggest Concerns People Have When Facing Divorce
01
What If I Lose Time With My Kids?
Custody decisions made early on can define your relationship with your children for years. Without the right legal strategy, you risk agreeing to arrangements that don't protect your parental rights. The choices you make now matter more than anything.
02
What Happens to My Money & Property?
Your home, savings, retirement accounts, and future income are all on the table. Most people don't know what they're entitled to or what they could lose. A clear legal strategy ensures assets are divided fairly and your financial future stays protected.
03
How Do I Handle All of This?
Court procedures, paperwork, deadlines, negotiations. It feels like too much, especially when you're already under emotional stress. One wrong step can have lasting consequences. The right legal team handles everything so you don't have to.
Who Our Divorce Legal Support Is Designed For
Families in High-Conflict Divorces
Communication has broken down and emotions are running high. You need strong representation, a clear strategy, and someone who protects your rights when things get complex.
Parents Fighting for Time With Their Kids
Custody and support decisions will shape your family for years. If your priority is protecting your time with your kids, we help you build a case around what matters most.
People Worried About Losing Their Assets
Your home, savings, retirement, and future income are all at stake. Many people don't know what they're entitled to. We guide you through property division with a focus on protecting what's yours.
People Who Want Clarity, Not Confusion
The legal system feels overwhelming, especially under emotional stress. We bring structure, explain your options clearly, and help you make informed decisions with confidence.
How We Guide You Through the Divorce Process
No surprises, no guesswork. Here's exactly how we handle your case from day one.
Step 1
We Listen and Assess Your Situation
Every divorce is different. We start by understanding your story, your concerns, and your priorities whether that's your children, your finances, or reducing conflict. We explain your legal options in clear terms so you know exactly where you stand and what paths are available.
Step 2
We Build a Strategy for Your Case
Based on your situation, we develop a plan tailored to your goals. This includes preparing documentation, addressing custody and financial matters, and anticipating challenges before they arise. Our focus is positioning you for the best possible outcome with the fewest surprises.
Step 3
We Represent You Through Resolution
Whether your case is resolved through negotiation or requires court, we stand by you at every step. Our team advocates for your interests, communicates with the other side on your behalf, and works toward a resolution that protects your future.
Why Families Choose Melone Hatley for Divorce
What Our Clients Say
Hear from families who've been exactly where you are right now.
"Melone Hatley, P.C. was incredible throughout my divorce process. What felt overwhelming and difficult became much more manageable with their guidance. They were professional, supportive, and truly stood up for me every step of the way."
– Aser A. C.
"Thankful for Melone Hatley's guidance. Divorce is not an easy thing to go through, but I felt I found a friend and an advocate in this firm. Trust the process. :)"
– Maggie A.
"Melone Hatley has been working with me on my divorce and has listened to all my needs and requests. They're fighters and they make sure that you're taken care of. Communication has been phenomenal and I'd recommend them for anyone."
– Stacey B.
"I had a very positive experience with Melone Hatley, P.C. The team provided clear and professional guidance, especially in explaining how to properly amend my divorce complaint."
– Alp Y.
"Melone Hatley has been amazing during this process. Their communication is wonderful, as well as their customer service and professionalism. During the divorce process I have asked many questions about how the process works."
– Ryan G.
"My experience with Melone Hatley was top notch from start to finish. This was the 2nd firm I had retained for my divorce that was dragging on for over 2 years. Melone Hatley took the time to understand my goals and then delivered on them."
– James G.
"I am coming to the end of my divorce process. I cannot speak highly enough of the representation I received from Melone Hatley. The settlement that we reached is fair to both parties."
– William H.
"Great experience with the Melone Hatley team! They have been true professionals — very knowledgeable and helpful navigating through the divorce process. Highly recommend their services!"
– Daniel B.
"Having to go through a divorce is truly awful. Melone Hatley stepped in and turned everything around. I felt supported and well-represented throughout the process."
– Megan A.
The Founders Behind Your Legal Support
Rebecca Melone and Charles Hatley built Melone Hatley, P.C. on one principle: every family deserves a legal team that fights as hard as they would.
With decades of combined experience in custody disputes, high-conflict divorces, and complex financial cases, they've guided hundreds of families through the most difficult chapters of their lives.
Their leadership is why the firm has been recognized by Inc. 5000, Law Firm 500, and Leaders in the Law. Every attorney at the firm operates by the same standard: prepare thoroughly, communicate clearly, and never treat a case like a number.
Trusted by Families In Virginia Beach & Beyond
"Divorce is never just a legal matter. It's personal. Our job is to make sure every client walks away knowing they had the best team in their corner." - Rebecca Melone, Managing Partner
Charles Hatley, Esq. & Rebecca Melone, Esq.
CEO & Managing Partner at Melone Hatley, P.C.
Your Divorce Team in Virginia Beach
Every attorney on our team focuses exclusively on family law, with deep experience in Virginia divorce cases, custody disputes, and financial negotiations. When you work with us, you're working with people who've handled cases like yours hundreds of times.
Julia Stitely
Litigation Attorney
Miguel Jeffery, Esq.
Litigation Attorney
William Wilkinson
Office Managing Attorney
Sloan Lambert, Esq.
Litigation Attorney
Christa Adkins, Esq.
Lead Litigator
Brittany Hudgens, Esq.
Litigation Attorney
Mike Piluso, Esq.
Lead Litigator
Floyd Oliver, Esq.
Litigation Attorney
Our Office in Virginia Beach
We know the local courts, the judges, and the process. That means fewer surprises and a stronger strategy for your case.
Office Address:
575 Lynnhaven Pkwy, Suite 310
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Your attorney is minutes away. Schedule a conversation today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to the questions most people have before filing for divorce.
Who do you help?
Do you have experience with cases like mine?
Why should I choose your firm for my divorce?
What does the divorce process usually look like?
Do I have to go to court?
How soon should I speak with a divorce attorney?
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia?
What should I bring to my first consultation?
Don't Let One Bad Decision Define the Rest of Your Life.
You're facing one of the hardest moments of your life. Your marriage, your home, your finances, and most importantly your children, all in one situation. You're not just looking for a lawyer. You're looking for someone who will fight for what's yours.
Divorce moves fast. Custody arrangements, financial agreements, and legal filings can lock in outcomes that follow you for years. Without the right strategy from day one, you risk losing time with your kids, walking away with less than you deserve, or signing something you'll regret.
The court doesn't care about your emotions. Your spouse's attorney won't either. Every day without representation is a day someone else is shaping your future, your finances, and your relationship with your children. The cost of waiting is almost always higher than the cost of acting.
A clear legal strategy changes everything. Custody, assets, support, and timing, all built around your specific situation and your goals. We protect what matters most to you and guide you through every step of the process, so you never feel alone in the fight.
Hundreds of families across Virginia have trusted Melone Hatley to navigate divorce with strength and clarity. Our 4.7 out of 5 rating reflects what clients value most: real strategy, real attention, and a team that actually shows up when it matters.
Imagine knowing your children are protected. Your finances are secure. Your future is in your hands again. No more second-guessing. No more waking up afraid of what's next. Just a clear path forward, built around you.
Your free consultation is the first step. We'll listen to your situation, explain your options, and help you understand exactly what to do next.
No pressure. No obligation. No cost. You leave the consultation with a clear understanding of your next steps, whether you choose to work with us or not.
The earlier you act, the more options you have. Every day matters in a divorce case, especially when children, custody, and finances are on the line.