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
Schedule a Free ConsultationMost people want their loved ones to inherit smoothly, not spend months (or…
Each November, National Family Caregivers Month recognizes the millions of family members who quietly shoulder the…
The holiday season often brings a whirlwind of expenses, from seasonal gifts to travel costs to…
Helpful Links
- Melone Hatley is Proud to Sponsor the 2015 Wounded Warrior Golf Classic
- DIY Estate Planning…Is it Worth the Time and Trouble?
- Do I Have To Pay Spousal Support?
- What You Should Know About Child Visitation Laws in Virginia
- Case Study: How Does a Revocable Living Trust Work?
- Should You Make A Trust For Your Kids?
- How Divorce is Different for the Special Needs Child
- Child Support and Imputation of Income
- Special Needs Children Financial Planning Through ABLE Act
- 5 Things You Need to Know About Separation and Divorce in VA
- How Residency Requirements Affect Divorce in Virginia
- Pet Trusts…What Happens to Fido When I’m Gone?
- Blog
- Talking to Your Children About Divorce
- Home
- Estate Planning in Second Marriages Explained
- Emergency Child Custody in Virginia
- Do I Need a Separation Agreement in Virginia?
- Estate Planning Myths in Virginia & How To Avoid Mistakes
- About Us
- Property Settlement and Marital Separation Agreement
- The Importance of Advance Medical Directives
- How Often Should I Review My Will, Trust, and Estate Plan?
- What is the Value of a Special Needs Trust?
- Spousal Support in Virginia Guide
- Contact Us
- Probate: The What, When, Where, Why and How of Probate
- Why To Revise Your Estate Plan After Divorce
- Estate Planning Documents for Adults with Special Needs
- Third Party Custody and the Parental Presumption

































