Arlington County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Arlington County family law matters, including divorce and child custody, are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce) and § 20-124.3 (custody). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these sensitive cases. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your family law situation in Arlington County Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), and § 20-124.3 (child custody best interests factors). These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Arlington County.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court forms and procedures, refer to the Arlington County Circuit Court website.
Arlington County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Arlington County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process involves filing a complaint, financial disclosure, and often court-ordered mediation.
- File a complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the Circuit Court Clerk.
- Serve the other party with the legal papers.
- Complete and exchange detailed financial disclosure statements.
- Attend any preliminary hearings for temporary orders.
- Participate in settlement negotiations or court-ordered mediation.
- Proceed to a bench trial if an agreement cannot be reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Arlington County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but determine critical rights like custody, support, and property division.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Joint or sole legal/physical custody |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines based on income | Monthly payment amount set by formula |
| Spousal Support | Factors in Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Temporary or permanent support award |
| Property Division | Equitable distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Division of marital assets and debts |
Results may vary. Each case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Firm Experience in Family Law
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. Our managing attorney personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. Global advocacy. Local precision.
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, and desertion (Va. Code § 20-91).
How is child custody determined in Arlington County?
The court determines custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s reasonable preference if of sufficient age and intelligence (Va. Code § 20-124.3).
What is equitable distribution in Virginia?
Equitable distribution is the court’s division of marital property and debts upon divorce. It is not necessarily equal. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration (Va. Code § 20-107.3).
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County?
An uncontested divorce with an agreement can take 2-3 months after filing. A contested divorce with court hearings typically takes 9-12 months or longer, depending on case complexity and court scheduling.
Can I modify a child support order?
Yes. You can petition the court for modification if there is a material change in circumstances, such as a significant income change for either parent or a change in the child’s needs (Va. Code § 20-108).
Local Family Law Assistance in Arlington
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County Circuit Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve as a family law lawyer near Arlington County and the surrounding neighborhoods of Clarendon, Ballston, and Crystal City. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
2100 Clarendon Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also assist with criminal defense in Arlington County and immigration matters in Arlington County. Learn more about Mr. Sris.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.