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 with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our Richmond location serves clients throughout the Virginia Beach area.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors, not necessarily 50/50.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes. Divorce requires either a 6-month separation with a signed agreement and no minor children, or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more. Equitable distribution of marital property follows Va. Code § 20-107.3, which was personally amended by Mr. Sris. Child custody determinations are based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
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). For court-specific forms, procedures, and contact information, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
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. A signed property settlement agreement can resolve all issues without a trial.
- Initial Filing: File the divorce complaint or custody petition at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court clerk’s office with the required filing fee.
- Service of Process: Serve the other party with the filed documents using a sheriff, private process server, or waiver of service.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Exchange financial disclosures and other relevant information. Attempt to negotiate a settlement through mediation or attorney discussions.
- Court Hearings: Attend scheduled hearings for temporary orders (pendente lite), settlement conferences, and if necessary, a final trial.
Virginia Beach Family Law Penalties and Standards
In Virginia Beach, family law outcomes are based on equitable distribution and the best interests of the child, not fixed penalties. Child support is calculated using state guidelines based on combined gross income.
| Issue | Legal Standard / Classification | Typical Timeline | Costs / Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce (Uncontested) | No-fault based on separation period | 2-4 months | Court fees: ~$86 + service costs |
| Divorce (Contested) | Fault or no-fault grounds | 9-18 months | Court fees + attorney fees + possible experienced costs |
| Equitable Distribution | 11-factor test under Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Varies with complexity | Potential business valuation, forensic accounting |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (10 factors) | Set within 21-60 days for temporary orders | Guardian ad Litem: $500-$2,500+ |
| Child Support | Virginia guideline calculation | Ongoing until emancipation | Based on income shares |
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. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of your situation in Virginia Beach courts.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters handled.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Virginia Beach Family Law Service
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. As a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, we serve the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana communities. We offer 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?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing. Contested divorces typically take 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Temporary support hearings are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), Guardian ad Litem fees for custody ($500-$2,500+), 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 go to J&DR Court.
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 wait), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with one year or more of imprisonment.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law hub page. We also assist with criminal defense in Virginia Beach and DUI/DWI defense in Virginia Beach. 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.