Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach divorce and 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 direct representation for divorces, child custody disputes, and property division. Our firm, founded in 1997, offers a case-specific approach to handle the Virginia Beach Circuit Court process.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, based on factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Grounds for divorce include no-fault separation periods and fault-based reasons like adultery or cruelty under Va. Code § 20-91. Child custody determinations are made according to the child’s best interests, outlined in Va. Code § 20-124.3.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6.1 (Divorce and Support) – Official Virginia statute.
- Virginia Beach General District Court Website – Court information and procedures.
Virginia Beach Family Law Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The 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: Discuss your goals and the specifics of your case with an attorney.
- Filing: Your attorney files the appropriate complaint with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange financial documents and other relevant information.
- Negotiation/Settlement: Your attorney works to reach a fair agreement on all issues.
- Court Hearings: If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to hearings before a judge.
- Final Decree: The court issues a final order resolving the divorce and all related matters.
Virginia Beach Divorce & Family Law Overview
In Virginia Beach, family law cases involve specific procedures and potential outcomes based on Virginia statutes.
| 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 disputes over property, support, or custody; may require trial. |
| Child Custody | Va. Code § 20-124.3 | Varies | Based on child’s best interests; handled by J&DR or Circuit Court. |
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | 12-24 months (complex) | Fair division of marital property; considers 11 statutory factors. |
Results may vary. The information above provides a general overview; each case is unique.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal 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 Case Experience
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 Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters at Virginia Beach courts. We represent individuals in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. For a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront or Town Center, contact us for a consultation.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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?
Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody: typically set within 21-60 days of motion. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody and mediation.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody in Virginia Beach is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Virginia Beach J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Related Legal Information
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – State overview page.
- Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – Representation in a nearby locality.
- Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer – Different practice area in Virginia Beach.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about the managing attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on your Virginia Beach family law matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.