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HB 273

Divorce; cruelty, reasonable apprehension of bodily hurt, or willful desertion or abandonment.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Reid and 1 co-sponsor

Bill clarifies divorce grounds related to cruelty, fear of bodily harm, and abandonment; remained in committee without advancement since January 2024.

Left in Courts of Justice
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Bill Summary · HB 273

Legislative bill overview

HB 273 modifies Virginia's grounds for divorce by clarifying or adjusting how the state defines "cruelty, reasonable apprehension of bodily hurt, or willful desertion or abandonment" as legal justifications for dissolution of marriage. The bill has been in committee review since early 2024 and was continued to the 2025 legislative session without advancement.

Why is this important

Divorce grounds definitions directly affect who can legally dissolve a marriage and how quickly. Changes to these definitions can expand or restrict access to divorce, impact spousal protections, and influence family law proceedings across the state. Virginia's approach to fault-based divorce grounds influences tens of thousands of divorces annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity vs. enforcement: Clarifying "cruelty" or "reasonable apprehension" could either make grounds more accessible or create disputes over what constitutes these conditions
  • Balance between protection and access: Stricter definitions may protect vulnerable spouses but could also trap individuals in unsafe or unwanted marriages
  • No-fault divorce implications: Virginia allows no-fault divorce; this bill's impact depends on whether it strengthens or weakens fault-based alternatives

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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