
Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
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), Va. Code § 20-124.2 (child custody factors), and Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property). These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax 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 Fairfax County court information, forms, and procedures, refer to the Fairfax County Circuit Court website.
Fairfax County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Fairfax County are heard in the Circuit Court, located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road. The court requires mandatory mediation for custody disputes before a trial can be scheduled.
- File the initial complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the Fairfax County Circuit Court clerk’s office.
- Serve the other party with the complaint and summons according to Virginia rules.
- Attend the initial hearing or status conference; the court may schedule mediation.
- Complete financial discovery, exchanging documents for property and support issues.
- Participate in settlement negotiations or court-ordered mediation.
- If no settlement, proceed to a bench trial before a Circuit Court judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Fairfax County, family law matters do not carry criminal penalties but can result in court orders for child support, spousal support, property division, and custody arrangements.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Fault or No-Fault | Dissolution of marriage, property division, support orders |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of Child | Legal & physical custody orders, visitation schedules |
| Child Support | Virginia Guidelines | Monthly support payments based on income and expenses |
| Spousal Support | Need & Ability to Pay | Temporary or permanent support payments |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution | Division of marital assets and debts |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its specific facts and circumstances.
Our Firm’s Background in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. We bring this deep legal knowledge to every Fairfax County family law case.
Samantha Powers
Family Law Attorney
Virginia Bar 2023 | Florida Bar 2005
J.D./M.A. University of Florida 2005 | Ph.D. Communication UCSB 2017
Samantha Powers focuses her practice on Virginia family law, including divorce, custody, and support matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County?
It depends on whether the divorce is contested. An uncontested divorce in Fairfax County can be finalized in about 30-60 days after filing. A contested divorce involving property division or child custody can take 6-12 months or longer, depending on court schedules and case complexity.
What factors does a Fairfax County judge consider for child custody?
Virginia judges consider the child’s best interests, including each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s preference (if age-appropriate), and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
How is property divided in a Virginia divorce?
Virginia follows equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. This means marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions, the length of the marriage, and each spouse’s economic circumstances.
Can I modify a child support order in Fairfax County?
Yes, 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. You must file a petition with the Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court to request a modification.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody in Virginia?
Legal custody involves the right to make major decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as education and healthcare. Physical custody determines where the child lives. Both can be shared jointly or awarded primarily to one parent, depending on the child’s best interests.
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results in Fairfax County family court. Our firm handles divorce, custody, and support matters with a focus on achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax County Location
Our Fairfax location is approximately 2 miles from the Fairfax County Circuit Court, accessible via Route 50 and I-66. We serve families throughout Fairfax County, including communities near Vienna, Annandale, and Burke.
Family law lawyer near Fairfax County. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
10513 Judicial Dr
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Arlington family law lawyer and Alexandria family law lawyer. If you need assistance with related matters, consider our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer services. Learn more about attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.