Contested Divorce Lawyer Near Me

If you are searching for a “contested divorce lawyer near me,” Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A contested divorce arises when spouses cannot agree on one or more key issues—such as property division, spousal support, child custody, or child support—and the court must resolve those disputes. Unlike an uncontested divorce, where both parties sign a settlement agreement and present a unified case, a contested divorce involves discovery, motions, and potentially a trial. Our firm concentrates its family law practice on contested matters, working with clients who face complex financial holdings, custody disputes, or fault-based grounds. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, has been practicing since 1997 and brings extensive courtroom experience to each case. He and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in the Circuit Courts and Family Divisions of the jurisdictions we serve. To request a consultation, call us at (888) 437-7747.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What a Contested Divorce Involves

In a contested divorce, the parties ask the court to decide the outcome of disputed legal and factual issues. The process begins with one spouse filing a Complaint for divorce and serving the other spouse. The responding spouse then files an answer, and the case proceeds through discovery, where each side exchanges financial records, interrogatories, and deposition testimony. Temporary orders may be entered to address child custody, support, and use of the marital home while the case is pending.

Because the stakes are high—property acquired during the marriage, parenting time with children, and long-term financial obligations—contested divorce litigation requires careful preparation. Virginia, for example, follows an equitable distribution model under Va. Code § 20-107.3, meaning the court divides marital property fairly but not necessarily equally. Other states where we practice have their own statutory frameworks, and our attorneys are familiar with the nuances of each jurisdiction’s laws. We handle forensic accounting, business valuation, and expert testimony on complex asset matters when necessary.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Contested Divorce Cases

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys take a strategic approach to contested divorce litigation. Every case is assessed individually, considering the client’s priorities, the opposing party’s position, and the applicable law. We work to resolve as many issues as possible through negotiation and settlement, recognizing that a negotiated agreement often reduces cost and emotional strain. When settlement is not achievable, we are prepared to present the case at trial.

Our process includes identifying and gathering all relevant financial documentation, evaluating the classification and value of marital and separate property, and analyzing support obligations under statutory guidelines. In child custody disputes, we focus on the trusted-interests factors the court will apply and present evidence that supports the parenting arrangement our client seeks. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in the courts of Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York, and they are admitted to practice before those courts. The firm’s multi-jurisdictional capability allows us to handle cases that involve assets or family members in more than one state.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris is Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He has been practicing law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, Mr. Sris applies his courtroom experience to contested divorce litigation. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), which revised Va. Code § 20-107.3(g). His background in accounting and information systems further strengthens the firm’s handling of property division involving business interests, retirement assets, and other complex financial structures.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced litigation counsel who collaborate with Mr. Sris on contested family law matters. Together, Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. Each case is staffed to match the specific needs of the litigation, drawing on the team’s collective experience in family court proceedings across multiple jurisdictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a contested divorce different from an uncontested divorce?

An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses agree on all terms—divorce, property division, support, custody—and submit a joint settlement to the court. A contested divorce means the parties cannot reach agreement on at least one issue, and the court must decide that issue after hearings or trial. Contested cases involve discovery, motions, and potential expert testimony. The timeline and cost are generally greater than in an uncontested proceeding. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles contested divorces in multiple states and can advise you on the process in your jurisdiction.

Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce?

You are not legally required to have a lawyer to file for a contested divorce, but representing yourself in a dispute over property, support, or custody can be risky. The procedural rules, evidence requirements, and substantive law are complex. An experienced attorney can help you evaluate settlement offers, preserve your rights, and present your case effectively. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What types of issues are typically contested in a divorce?

Contested issues commonly include classification and division of marital property, allocation of debts, spousal support, child custody, and child support. High-net-worth divorces may involve business valuation, stock options, international assets, and retirement plan division. Parents may contest legal custody, physical custody, visitation schedules, or relocation. Some spouses also raise fault grounds such as adultery or cruelty. Our firm handles the full range of contested family law matters and can explain how the court in your jurisdiction approaches these issues.

How do I find a contested divorce lawyer near me?

To find a contested divorce lawyer in your area, you can search by jurisdiction, review attorney experience, and schedule a consultation to discuss your case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. We offer consultations by appointment at (888) 437-7747. When you contact us, we can confirm whether we have an attorney available who practices in your local court and is familiar with the judges and procedures there.

What should I expect during a contested divorce case?

A contested divorce typically begins with filing the Complaint, serving the other party, and exchanging financial disclosures. The court may enter temporary orders for support and custody. The discovery phase follows, where each side requests documents and takes depositions. Settlement discussions occur throughout, and many cases resolve without a trial. If trial is necessary, each side presents evidence, and the judge makes final rulings. The timeline varies by case complexity and court scheduling. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can a contested divorce be settled without going to trial?

Yes, many contested divorces settle before trial through negotiation, mediation, or exchange of settlement offers. Even in highly disputed cases, the parties often reach an agreement after discovery clarifies the facts and the legal positions of each side. Settlement can save time and expense and give the parties more control over the outcome. Our firm works to resolve cases on favorable terms when possible, while remaining fully prepared to take the matter to trial if that serves the client’s best interests.

Virginia family law resources:
Virginia Code Title 20 – Domestic Relations |
Virginia Judicial System |
Virginia State Corporation Commission

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.