Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach divorce and family law matters are governed by Virginia statutes, including Va. Code § 20-91 and § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division. We handle cases at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which was personally amended by Mr. Sris. Separate property, such as assets owned before marriage or received as inheritance, is typically excluded from division.
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 Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). The Virginia Beach General District Court website provides local forms, fees, and procedural information.
Virginia Beach Family Court 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.
- Consult with an attorney to review your situation and goals.
- File the appropriate complaint (for divorce, custody, etc.) with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court or J&DR Court.
- Serve the other party with the legal papers.
- Participate in discovery, which may include financial disclosures and depositions.
- Attend mediation or settlement conferences if ordered by the court.
- Proceed to a final hearing or trial if an agreement cannot be reached.
Divorce Penalties and Requirements in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, divorce requires a 6-month separation with no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation with minor children. Fault grounds like adultery have no waiting period.
| Offense | Classification | Timeline | Court Costs | Additional Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | 2-4 months | ~$86 filing + service fees | Signed separation agreement required |
| Contested Divorce | No-Fault or Fault | 9-18 months | Filing fees + motion costs | May involve discovery, hearings |
| Complex Divorce | Equitable Distribution | 12-24 months | Filing fees + experienced costs | Business valuation, retirement assets |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
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 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 family law matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local 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 Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 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?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary support are usually set within 21-60 days of a motion.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Sheriff service of process costs about $12; a private process server costs $50-$100. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem fees for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, such as pre-marriage assets or inheritance, 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 relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Virginia Beach J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need other legal assistance in Virginia Beach, consider our Criminal Defense Lawyer or DUI/DWI Lawyer services. Learn more about Mr. Sris or our Richmond office.
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.