Overview
Dale Berrett is an experienced family law attorney dedicated to protecting her clients' interests and guiding them through the emotional challenges of divorce while aiming for amicable resolutions.
Dale has been practicing family law for over 32 years and is recognized for her dedication to fighting for her clients' interests. She is committed to protecting their financial stability, parental rights, and dignity. Dale ensures that assets are divided fairly and appropriately, safeguarding her clients' long-term financial well-being.
In cases involving custody issues, she diligently defends her clients' custody and visitation rights. Dale is known for her excellent communication skills, maintaining timely responses to calls, emails, and texts, both with clients and in court.
Understanding that divorce is an emotional experience, Dale listens attentively and provides reassurance to her clients, guiding them through the overwhelming process. She navigates the complex landscape of divorce with care, helping clients understand their options.
Dale's clients appreciate her realistic assessments of potential outcomes, drawing on her extensive experience. She collaborates directly with them to develop strategies aimed at achieving their goals while minimizing conflict and seeking amicable settlements when possible.
Most importantly, Dale’s clients enjoy working with her and her team. Dale leverages the firm’s nearly 100 attorneys to assist in case resolutions when necessary. Throughout her 32 years of practice, Dale has handled hundreds of cases in court, while also advocating for settlement options when appropriate. She is known for being effective, resourceful, and efficient.
Recognition & Honors
Honors & Recognitions
Best Lawyers in America, 2019-2026
Virginia Super Lawyers; Law & Politics, 2007, 2012, 2014-2025
Virginia’s Legal Elite; Virginia Business Magazine, 2006, 2011-2025
Top Lawyers; CoVaBIZ Magazine, 2017-2025
College of William & Mary School of Law; Adjunct Professor, 2013-2019
Phi Beta Kappa
Outstanding Psychology Major Award
Phi Delta Phi
Chi Beta Phi
National Honorary Scientific Fraternity
Press & Publications
News
Community & Professional
Associations
American Bar Association
Virginia State Bar; Family Law Section
Virginia Trial Lawyers Association; Family Law Section; Board member; Chairperson, 2000; Vice-Chair, 1999
Strathmore’s Who’s Who; 2001-2002
Norfolk & Portsmouth Bar Association
Virginia Beach Bar Association
Family Law Organization of Greater Hampton Roads; Board member; President, 2004; Vice-Chair, 2000; Secretary, 1999
Family Law Coalition for Legislative Change; 2001-2006
Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court; Judicial Liaison Committee
Tidewater Collaborative Divorce Solutions; Member 2010-present; Board Member 2020
Credentials
Education
Randolph-Macon College; B.A., magna cum laude
University of Virginia School of Law; J.D.
Beyond the Law
When Dale is not in the office, she likes to spend time with her family, her children, and her closest friends, some of whom are former clients. She is also an avid reader and participates in two book clubs. Dale was an adjunct professor at William & Mary for many years.