Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach Family Law Statutes and Definitions
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Grounds for divorce include no-fault separation (6 months or 1 year) and fault-based grounds like adultery or cruelty. Child custody is determined by 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 family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court-specific information, forms, and procedures, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce and equitable distribution cases. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, and child support matters. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Initial Consultation and Document Gathering: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your case specifics. Gather all relevant financial documents, marriage certificates, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will prepare and file the divorce complaint or other initiating pleading with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, paying the required $86 filing fee.
- Service of Process and Response: The complaint is served on the other party, who then has 21 days to file an Answer. If uncontested, a separation agreement may be submitted.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information through discovery. Your attorney will negotiate for a settlement on property division, support, and custody.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: Attend any required pendente lite or final hearings. For an uncontested case, a final hearing is scheduled after the mandatory separation period. The judge enters the final decree.
Potential Outcomes and Legal Standards
In Virginia Beach, family law cases follow equitable distribution principles; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month or 1-year separation, and fault grounds like adultery have no waiting period.
| Matter | Legal Classification | Timeline | Typical Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault | 2-4 months | Court fees + legal fees |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or No-fault | 9-18 months | Court fees + discovery + trial costs |
| Complex Asset Division | Equitable Distribution | 12-24 months | Fees + business valuation + experienced witnesses |
| Child Custody Dispute | Best Interests of Child | Varies | Court fees + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are not guarantees. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of Virginia Beach courts and procedures.
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 Family Law Case Experience
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 these matters. Our attorneys use their experience with local judges and procedures to advocate effectively for clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Virginia Beach Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters at Virginia Beach courts. We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, serving 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 typically takes 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuations can take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation period before filing for no-fault divorce.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour). Legal 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 usually 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 factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and the child’s needs. Standalone custody cases are heard in Juvenile and Domestic Relations 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 waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment of one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with other matters, see our Virginia Beach criminal defense or DUI defense pages. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.