Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach family law matters, including divorce under Va. Code § 20-91 and equitable distribution under § 20-107.3, are handled by the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division. Our Richmond location serves clients throughout the Virginia Beach area.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not community property. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors.
Virginia Beach Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by state code. Divorce requires grounds under Va. Code § 20-91, which include no-fault separation periods and fault-based grounds like adultery or cruelty. Property division follows Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Child custody determinations are based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3, and child support is calculated using statewide guidelines.
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 (Divorce) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific 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 Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, 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. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney files a Complaint for Divorce at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court clerk’s office, paying the $86 filing fee.
- Service of Process and Response: The other party is served. They have 21 days to file an Answer. Separate custody actions go to J&DR Court.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both sides exchange financial information. Your attorney negotiates for a settlement on all issues.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: If settled, a final hearing is scheduled. If not, the case proceeds to trial. The judge issues a Final Decree.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, family law matters involve specific legal standards: Virginia is an equitable distribution state; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation; fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
| Issue | Legal Classification / Standard | Court / Timeline | Typical Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | No-fault or Fault Grounds | Virginia Beach Circuit Court | Filing fee: ~$86 + service fees |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Circuit Court; Complex: 12-24 months | Valuation experts: $2,500+ |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of Child (10 factors) | J&DR Court or Circuit Court | Guardian ad Litem: $500-$2,500+ |
| Child Support | Virginia Guideline Calculation | J&DR Court | Court costs for modification |
| Spousal Support | Based on 13 statutory factors | Circuit Court | Contingent on duration, need |
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. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. A key differentiator is that Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, giving our team direct insight into the law’s application. Our approach is case-specific, built on this deep 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
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 these matters. These results demonstrate our experience handling cases in the local courts.
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. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. As a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach, we represent clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 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. A pendente lite hearing for temporary matters is usually set within 21-60 days of filing a motion.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The Virginia Beach Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion costs, a Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Total cost depends on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is excluded from division.
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 relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases are filed in Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need other legal assistance in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer or Virginia Beach DUI lawyer. Learn more about our attorneys.
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.