Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach divorce is governed by Va. Code § 20-91, requiring a 6-month or 1-year separation for no-fault cases; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody under Va. Code § 20-124.3, and complex property division under the equitable distribution statute personally amended by Mr. Sris.
In Virginia Beach, family law matters are heard at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. Marital property is divided based on fairness under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which lists 11 factors for the court to consider. This statute was personally amended by Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder. Grounds for divorce include no-fault separation and fault-based reasons like adultery or cruelty under Va. Code § 20-91. Child custody determinations are guided 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’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court forms, procedures, and contact information, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, child support, and protective orders. 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 review your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will file the divorce complaint with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, paying the $86 filing fee and arranging for service of process.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information. Your attorney negotiates a settlement on property division, support, and custody if possible.
- Court Hearings and Trial: Attend pendente lite hearings for temporary orders. If settlement fails, the case proceeds to trial before a Virginia Beach Circuit Court judge.
- Final Decree and Post-Judgment: The court issues a final divorce decree. Your attorney can assist with enforcement or modification of orders if circumstances change.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, family law cases involve equitable distribution of property, not penalties, with outcomes based on statutory factors and the child’s best interests standard.
| Matter | Classification / Standard | Timeline / Outcome | Costs / Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault (Separation) | 2-4 months | Filing: ~$86 + service fees |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or No-Fault | 9-18 months | Filing fees + potential experienced costs |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of Child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Varies by case complexity | Guardian ad Litem: $500-$2,500+ |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair Division (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | 12-24 months if complex | Business valuation, forensic accounting |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Credentials and Authority
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 deep involvement in Virginia family law. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct legal experience.
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 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.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-264 and I-64. We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We provide 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?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation 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). Attorney 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 not divided.
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 any history of abuse. 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 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
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 Mr. Sris.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.