Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach family law matters, including divorce under Va. Code § 20-91 and equitable distribution under § 20-107.3, are handled by the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing full representation for divorce, child custody, and support. Our Richmond location serves clients throughout the Virginia Beach area by appointment.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not community property. The court divides marital property fairly based on 11 statutory factors.
Virginia Beach Family Law Statutes and Definitions
Family law in Virginia Beach is governed by the Virginia Code. Divorce requires a 6-month separation with a signed agreement and no minor children, or a 1-year separation otherwise (Va. Code § 20-91). Property division follows equitable distribution principles under Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Child custody determinations are based on the child’s best interests, outlined in Va. Code § 20-124.3. The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor.
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 (law.lis.virginia.gov). Information about court procedures and forms for the Virginia Beach General District Court can be found on the Virginia Judiciary website (vacourts.gov).
Virginia Beach Family Law Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Initial Consultation and Document Gathering: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to review your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- File the Appropriate Pleadings: Your attorney will file the necessary complaint for divorce or custody at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court or J&DR Court, paying the required filing fees.
- handle Discovery and Negotiation: Exchange financial disclosures. Engage in settlement negotiations or mediation to resolve property division, support, and custody issues.
- Prepare for and Attend Hearings: Prepare for pendente lite (temporary) hearings and, if necessary, a final trial before a judge at the Virginia Beach court.
Virginia Beach Family Law Procedures and Potential Outcomes
In Virginia Beach, family law cases involve specific procedures and considerations, not penalties. Virginia is an equitable distribution state, and outcomes are based on statutory factors.
| Matter | Governing Law | Typical Timeline | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | Va. Code § 20-91 | 2-4 months | Requires signed separation agreement; 6-month or 1-year separation. |
| Contested Divorce | Va. Code § 20-91, § 20-107.3 | 9-18 months | Involves litigation over property, support, or custody. |
| Child Custody | Va. Code § 20-124.3 | Varies | Based on child’s best interests; 10 statutory factors. |
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | 12-24 months (complex) | Fair division of marital property; 11 factors considered. |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This direct involvement in shaping state law provides a distinct advantage in complex property division cases for Virginia Beach clients.
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 these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Virginia Beach Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, serving the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana areas. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location
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 typically takes 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce can take 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation may take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation before filing for no-fault divorce.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+ for custody cases), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Attorney fees vary based on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, 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, the child’s relationships, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases are filed in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children with an agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment of one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with other matters, see our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer page. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your Virginia Beach family law matter.