Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Chesapeake, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced family law representation in Chesapeake, Virginia, with 6 documented case results in the locality. Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce without minor children or 1-year separation with children under Va. Code § 20-91. Our firm, founded in 1997, handles divorce, equitable distribution, child custody, and support matters in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes that determine divorce grounds, property division, and child-related matters. The key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), and § 20-124.2 (custody best interests).
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). This direct involvement in shaping Virginia family law provides unique insight into statutory interpretation and application.
Official Legal Resources
For accurate, up-to-date information on Virginia family law statutes, consult these official government resources:
- Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Divorce and Annulment) – Official Virginia General Assembly website
- Chesapeake General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures
Chesapeake Family Court Procedures
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at 307 Albemarle Drive. Chesapeake 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.
- File initial pleadings at Chesapeake Circuit Court with the required filing fee
- Serve the other party within 120 days of filing
- Attend the court’s scheduling conference to establish deadlines
- Complete the discovery process including financial disclosures
- Attempt settlement or court-ordered mediation
- Prepare for trial if settlement fails
Family Law Penalties and Consequences
In Chesapeake, family law matters involve specific legal standards rather than penalties: Virginia is an equitable distribution state with no-fault divorce after 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children).
| Issue | Legal Standard | Timeline | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Grounds | No-fault separation or fault grounds | 6 months to 1 year waiting period | Court fees: $86+ |
| Property Division | Equitable distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Determined at final hearing | Varies by asset value |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines based on income | Monthly payments | Based on combined gross income |
| Spousal Support | 13 statutory factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent | Based on need and ability to pay |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings substantial experience to Chesapeake family law cases. Founded in 1997, the firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), providing direct insight into this critical area of family law.
The firm maintains a 100% favorable outcome rate for documented Chesapeake cases across all practice areas. This track record demonstrates consistent attention to case details and effective legal strategy.
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
Chesapeake Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Chesapeake, Virginia, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include successful divorce settlements, custody arrangements, and property division agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, I-664, Route 13, Route 17, and Route 168 (Battlefield Blvd). We provide family law lawyer services near Chesapeake City Hall, Greenbrier area, Great Bridge, Chesapeake City Park, and Deep Creek.
We serve the Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier communities. Contact us for 24/7 phone consultations at (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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake, 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). Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Custody in Chesapeake 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). Filed at Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Parent hub page for all Virginia family law information.
Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – Family law representation in neighboring Henrico County.
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer – Criminal defense representation in Chesapeake.
Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about our experienced legal team.
Richmond Office Location – Details about our Richmond location serving Chesapeake clients.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from court records and Virginia Code. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance specific to your situation.