Each case is different. In Virginia, a party can be divorced on “no fault” grounds once separated for a period of six (6) months provided (s)he has entered into a property settlement agreement and does not have any minor children. If there are minor children, the couple must be separated for a period of one (1) year for a no fault divorce. Because of the required separation, it is sometimes beneficial to enter into a comprehensive Marital Settlement Agreement during the mandatory separation period to avoid the potential confusion, stress, and anxiety that may occur when going through the divorce process.