In Virginia, a legal separation occurs when the spouses are unable to reach an agreement on one or more crucial issues, such as the division of property, child custody, spousal support (alimony), or even the grounds for divorce. Unlike an uncontested divorce, which is typically faster and more affordable, a contested divorce can be lengthy, emotionally draining, contested divorce in virginia and expensive due to the involvement of litigation, court appearances, and attorney representation. In Virginia, the process begins when one spouse files a complaint for divorce, stating the legal grounds—either “fault-based” such as adultery, cruelty, or desertion, or “no-fault,” which requires a period of separation (six months with a signed separation agreement and no minor children, or one year otherwise).