Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach family law matters are governed by Virginia statutes including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing full representation for divorce, custody, and support issues. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your family law case in Virginia Beach courts.
Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce without minor children, or a 1-year separation when minor children are involved.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Family law in Virginia Beach is defined by state code. Va. Code § 20-91 establishes grounds for divorce, while Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris) governs equitable distribution of marital property. Va. Code § 20-124.3 outlines the best interests factors for child custody determinations. These laws apply in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
- Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Divorce and Annulment) – official Virginia General Assembly statutes.
- Virginia Beach General District Court website – court procedures and contact information.
Virginia Beach Family Law Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. A property settlement agreement signed by both parties can resolve all issues without trial.
- Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your family law matter and review your options.
- Gather all relevant financial documents, marriage certificates, and any existing agreements for your attorney’s review.
- Your attorney will file the necessary petitions with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court or J&DR Court, paying the required filing fees.
- Attend scheduled hearings, participate in mediation if ordered, and work through discovery and negotiation phases.
- Reach a settlement agreement or proceed to trial for a judge to decide on divorce, custody, support, and property division.
Penalties and Legal Standards
In Virginia Beach, family law follows equitable distribution principles; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contempt of Court (Support) | Civil/Criminal | Up to 10 days | Varies | Driver’s license suspension, professional license suspension |
| Violation of Protective Order | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional protective orders, mandatory counseling |
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, demonstrating direct involvement in shaping family law in Virginia.
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 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters handled.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody: typically set within 21-60 days of motion.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris).
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody in Virginia Beach is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment).
Related Legal Services
For other legal needs in Virginia Beach, consider:
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – state-wide hub page.
- Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – serving nearby locality.
- Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer – related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – learn about our team.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.