Bedford County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
Family law matters in Bedford County are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for divorce, custody, and support cases. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your situation. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only.
In Bedford County, family law cases are heard in the Circuit Court or Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, depending on the issue.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is a set of rules that control marriage, divorce, child custody, support, and property division. The main laws are found in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. For example, Va. Code § 20-91 lists the grounds for divorce, and Va. Code § 20-124.3 explains the factors for deciding child custody based on the child’s best interests. Property division in a divorce follows the equitable distribution rules in Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Last verified: March 2026 | Bedford County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family laws, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) on the official state legislature website. For local court forms and procedures, refer to the Bedford County Circuit Court website.
The Bedford County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Bedford County may start in either the Circuit Court (for divorce and equitable distribution) or the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (for custody, visitation, and child support). The process involves filing paperwork, financial disclosure, and often court-ordered mediation.
- File a Complaint: Start your case by filing the correct legal forms with the court clerk and paying the filing fee.
- Serve the Other Party: Have the sheriff or a process server deliver the legal papers to your spouse or the other parent.
- Exchange Financial Information: Both sides must share complete details about income, assets, debts, and expenses.
- Attend Settlement Conferences: The court may order you to try to resolve issues with a mediator or in a conference with a judge.
- Prepare for Trial: If you cannot agree, you will present evidence and arguments to a judge for a final decision.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Bedford County, family law cases do not involve criminal penalties but determine critical rights like custody, support, and property division.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Possible Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Joint or sole legal and physical custody arrangements |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines (Va. Code § 20-108.2) | Monthly payment based on parents’ incomes and time-sharing |
| Spousal Support | Statutory factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support payments; amount and duration vary |
| Property Division | Equitable distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Division of marital property and debts; not necessarily 50/50 |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. We focus on family law matters across Virginia with a commitment to clear communication and strong advocacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with no minor children and a separation agreement). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, and felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Bedford County?
The Bedford County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court determines custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own reasonable preference if they are of sufficient age and maturity.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the process of dividing marital property and debts. It does not mean a 50/50 split. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions, the length of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party to achieve a fair, but not necessarily equal, division.
How is spousal support calculated?
There is no fixed formula. The court considers the needs of the requesting spouse, the other spouse’s ability to pay, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and each party’s earning capacity, among other factors outlined in Va. Code § 20-107.1.
Can I modify a child support order in Bedford County?
Yes. You can petition the court for a modification if there has been a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either parent’s income, the child’s needs, or the custody arrangement. The change must be substantial and ongoing.
Family Law Help in Bedford County
Our Virginia location serves Bedford County and surrounding areas like Forest, Goode, and Moneta. We are accessible to residents throughout the county.
Family law lawyer near Bedford County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Services
If you need assistance with other matters, explore our Virginia family law hub page. We also help clients in neighboring areas like Roanoke County and with related issues such as criminal defense in Bedford County. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.