Attorney Bio
As Lead Litigation Attorney in the Virginia Beach office of Melone Hatley, P.C., Christa Adkins, Esq. brings a powerful combination of courtroom skill and client-centered advocacy to every case. Her practice is exclusively devoted to family law, including complex divorce cases, custody disputes, and support matters. Known for her ability to distill complicated legal issues into clear strategies, Christa is a tenacious advocate who ensures her clients’ voices are heard and their rights protected.
Christa’s passion for family law began during her appellate work in Florida, where she drafted winning briefs that led to the reversal of numerous trial court decisions. That early success instilled in her a deep respect for the impact strong legal representation can have on families’ lives. After returning to her hometown in Hampton Roads, she built her career representing clients in all aspects of family law, from negotiated settlements to high-stakes courtroom litigation. Christa’s approach balances fierce advocacy with a practical understanding of how family dynamics and emotions shape the legal process, allowing her to guide clients through difficult transitions with both strength and empathy.
Raised in Hampton Roads, Christa enjoys staying connected to the local community. Outside the courtroom, she values time with family and friends and is passionate about giving back to the region she calls home.
In the News
Recent Blog Posts
Practical Guidance to Protect Your Finances, Your Family, and Your Future Divorce is a series of choices made during one of the most emotionally tumultuous times…
At Melone Hatley, P.C., we are Your Partner in Divorce®. As a partner, we specialize in compassionate Legal Representation Protecting Your Family, Your Finances, and Your…
How Divorce Affects Children at Every Age – and How You Can Support Their Emotional Well-Being Through the Transition If you’re facing a divorce, one of…
Helpful Links
- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- Home
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?
- About Us
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- Contact Us
- Blog
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia



































