2020 Legal Elite — Family Law/ Domestic Relations Profile

Debra C. Albiston, Kaufman & Canoles PC, Virginia Beach

Published November 30, 2020 by Virginia Business

Title: Of counsel
Birthplace: Washington, D.C.
Education: Bachelor’s degree, George Mason University; law degree, William & Mary
Spouse: George T. Albiston
Children: Chris, 28, and Ryan, 26
First job as a lawyer: Weinberg & Stein in Norfolk
Fan of: Summers at Lake Gaston and U2 music
Recently read book: “The Reckoning,” by John Grisham
Hobbies or pastimes: Running, working out, spending time with family
Favorite vacation spot: Lake Gaston and St. John
Career mentors: Jerry Weinberg and Braxton Hill
How has the pandemic affected custody and divorce cases?
The greatest impact of the pandemic has been the court closures. The long continuances of pending cases and the inability to get into court to address issues caused by the pandemic has been frustrating to both clients and attorneys alike. I have also seen a surge in divorce cases as a result of the tensions created by financial concerns, daycare issues for working parents, homeschooling and virtual learning as a result of school closures. There has been one positive impact and that is parties seem more willing to mediate and compromise to get their cases settled.
What initially interested you in family law?
Jerrold Weinberg. Jerry was one of the premier family law attorneys in the Hampton Roads area when I started my career with him in 1984. Anyone who knew Jerry will remember his passion for the law and for his clients. That passion drew me in to focus my career in family law.