Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach family law matters are governed by Virginia statutes, including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing full representation for divorce, custody, and support. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your family law case in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly under Va. Code § 20-107.3, considering factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration. The statute was personally amended by Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). The Virginia Beach General District Court website provides local forms and procedures.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Consult with an attorney to review your grounds for divorce and goals.
- File a complaint for divorce with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court clerk.
- Serve the complaint on your spouse following Virginia rules.
- Participate in discovery and any required mediation sessions.
- Attend a final hearing if uncontested, or prepare for trial if contested.
- Receive the court’s final decree of divorce and any related orders.
Virginia Beach Divorce Penalties and Procedures
In Virginia Beach, divorce requires a 6-month separation with no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation with minor children. Fault grounds like adultery have no waiting period.
| Offense | Classification | Timeline | Court Costs | Additional Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | 2-4 months | ~$86 filing + service fees | Signed separation agreement required |
| Contested Divorce | No-Fault or Fault | 9-18 months | Filing fees + motion costs | Discovery, possible trial |
| Complex Asset Division | Equitable Distribution | 12-24 months | Fees + experienced valuation costs | Business, retirement assets involved |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and court discretion.
Firm Credentials in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating direct involvement in shaping state family law.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Virginia Beach Family Law Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters handled.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Service in Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts on Nimmo Parkway, accessible via I-264 and I-64. We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Town Center.
We serve the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana communities. Available for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Temporary support hearings are usually set within 21-60 days of a motion.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), motion fees, and possibly a Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+). Mediation costs $100-$300 per hour per party.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly under Va. Code § 20-107.3, considering 11 factors. The statute was amended by Mr. Sris. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets, is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers 10 factors, including each parent’s role and the child’s relationship with each parent. Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children with agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Services
For more information on family law across Virginia, visit our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County family law lawyer and Chesterfield County family law lawyer. In Virginia Beach, we handle other legal matters including criminal defense and DUI/DWI defense. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.