Virginia Beach Family Law Lawyer – How Can We Protect Your Family?
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), Va. Code § 20-107.1 (spousal support), Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), and Va. Code § 20-124.2 (best interests of the child for custody). These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Virginia Beach courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
handling Family Court in Virginia Beach
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce and equitable distribution cases. For initial custody, support, and visitation orders, filings typically begin in the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
- File the initial complaint: File a complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the required filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Ensure the defendant is properly served with the complaint and a summons, following Virginia court rules.
- Attend preliminary hearings: Participate in initial hearings or status conferences scheduled by the court to establish a case schedule.
- Complete discovery: Exchange financial disclosures and other relevant information through the legal discovery process.
- Attempt settlement: Participate in mediation or settlement conferences to try to resolve issues without a trial.
- Proceed to trial if necessary: If settlement fails, present your case at a bench trial before a Virginia Beach Circuit Court judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Virginia Beach, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but determine critical life matters like asset division, child custody, and financial support.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Primary Consideration | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (Va. Code § 20-124.2) | Child’s health, safety, and welfare | Joint or sole legal/physical custody |
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Fair division of marital property & debts | Percentage division of assets |
| Spousal Support | Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Need and ability to pay | Temporary or permanent support award |
| Child Support | Virginia Child Support Guidelines | Parents’ incomes and custody schedule | Monthly payment amount |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep involvement in the state’s family law framework. We apply this knowledge to protect our clients’ interests in Virginia Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia allows both fault and no-fault divorce. The most common ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Virginia Beach?
The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court determines custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s reasonable preference if of sufficient age and maturity.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the court’s division of marital property and debts under Va. Code § 20-107.3. It is not necessarily equal. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions, the marriage’s duration, and the economic circumstances of each party.
How long does a divorce take in Virginia Beach?
The timeline varies. An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement can be finalized after the statutory separation period (6-12 months). A contested divorce involving litigation in Virginia Beach Circuit Court can take a year or more, depending on case complexity.
Can I get spousal support in Virginia?
It depends. Courts award spousal support (alimony) based on need and ability to pay under Va. Code § 20-107.1. Factors include the standard of living during marriage, each party’s earning capacity, duration of marriage, and contributions to family well-being.
Family Law Help in Virginia Beach
Our Virginia Beach family law lawyer serves clients throughout the area, including neighborhoods like Oceanfront, Kempsville, and Great Neck. We are accessible to those needing representation near the Virginia Beach Courthouse.
24/7 phone consultations – (888) 437-7747 – meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Norfolk Family Law Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- Virginia Beach Divorce Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your family law matter in Virginia Beach.