Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Fairfax County, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced family law representation in Fairfax County, Virginia. Virginia is an equitable distribution state under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which our founder personally amended. Our firm has 1,789 documented case results in Fairfax County across all practice areas. We handle divorce, child custody, spousal support, and complex property division matters in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes. Divorce grounds are defined in Va. Code § 20-91, requiring a 6-month or 1-year separation for no-fault cases. Property division follows equitable distribution principles under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally helped amend. Child custody determinations are based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Domestic Relations). For Fairfax County court information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Family Law Process
Fairfax County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- File a Complaint for Divorce or other initiating pleading with the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the filing fee (approximately $86).
- Have the other party served with the legal papers by a sheriff, private process server, or through acceptance of service.
- Exchange financial information and other relevant documents. Attempt to negotiate a settlement through your attorney or mediation.
- Attend any pendente lite (temporary) hearings for support or custody, and prepare for a final hearing or trial if settlement is not reached.
- Obtain a final decree from the judge, which will address all issues of divorce, property division, support, and custody.
Family Law Procedures and Potential Outcomes
In Fairfax County, family law matters involve specific procedures and considerations rather than penalties. Virginia uses equitable distribution for property and guidelines for child support.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Timeline | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation | 2-4 months | Filing fees, service costs |
| Contested Divorce | Court decides based on evidence and statutory factors | 9-18 months | Filing fees, discovery, possible experienced witnesses |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Varies | Possible Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | 12-24 months if complex | Possible business valuators, forensic accountants |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founder personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across our practice.
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
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1,789 total documented case results across all practice areas in Fairfax County, with a 97% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a family law lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement typically takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary matters are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Service of process costs about $12-$100. Additional costs may include 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, not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is typically excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases go to J&DR Court; custody within divorce goes to Circuit 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 felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Falls Church and Prince William County. If you need other legal services, see our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer or Fairfax County DUI lawyer pages. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.