Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Divorce requires a 6-month separation if there are no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation otherwise. Fault grounds like adultery have no waiting period. Child custody is determined by the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach Circuit 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 (Domestic Relations). The Virginia Beach Circuit Court website provides local forms, filing information, and court rules.
Virginia Beach Family Law Process
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Virginia Beach 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.
- Consultation & Document Gathering: Meet with your attorney and collect financial records, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- File the Complaint: Your attorney files the Complaint for Divorce with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court clerk and pays the $86 filing fee.
- Serve Your Spouse: The sheriff or a private process server delivers the legal papers to your spouse.
- Discovery & Negotiation: Both sides exchange financial information. Your attorney negotiates for a settlement on all issues.
- Court Hearings: Attend any temporary support or custody hearings. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial.
- Final Decree: The judge issues the final divorce decree, including orders on property, support, and custody.
Virginia Beach Divorce Penalties and Costs
In Virginia Beach, divorce is a civil action, not a criminal offense, but carries specific legal standards and financial obligations for property division, spousal support, and child support.
| Legal Action | Classification | Financial Obligations | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | Civil Action | Court fee: ~$86; Service: ~$12-$100 | Separation period required (6 mos/1 yr) |
| Contested Divorce | Civil Litigation | Attorney fees, experienced costs (forensic accountant: $2,500+) | Court-ordered property division & support |
| Child Support | Court Order | Monthly payments per VA guidelines | Wage garnishment possible for non-payment |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution | Division of marital assets & debts | Potential sale of home, division of retirement |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This direct involvement in shaping the law provides a distinct advantage in complex property division cases.
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 we have handled.
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 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 to final decree. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months.
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 per party).
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, which was personally amended by Mr. Sris of our firm.
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.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children + agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no wait), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Virginia Beach, we also handle Criminal Defense and DUI/DWI cases. Learn more about our attorneys or our Richmond office.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.