Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Chesapeake, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced family law representation in Chesapeake, Virginia. Chesapeake divorce is governed by Va. Code § 20-91 and equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3; the firm has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake. We handle divorce, child custody, support, and property division matters filed at Chesapeake Circuit Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is defined by specific statutes. Divorce grounds are in Va. Code § 20-91. Equitable distribution of marital property follows Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Child custody decisions use the “best interests” standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Child support is calculated using guidelines in Va. Code § 20-108.1. Spousal support factors are listed in Va. Code § 20-107.1.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Domestic Relations). For court forms and procedures, refer to the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Family Law Process in Chesapeake
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. 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.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your case with an attorney to understand options and strategy.
- Filing: Your attorney files the complaint with Chesapeake Circuit Court and serves the other party.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange financial documents and other evidence.
- Negotiation/Settlement: Attempt to reach an agreement on all issues through negotiation or mediation.
- Court Hearings: Attend hearings for temporary orders (pendente lite) and, if necessary, a final trial.
- Final Decree: The court issues a final order dissolving the marriage and deciding all related matters.
Divorce Penalties and Procedures
In Chesapeake, divorce carries specific procedural requirements and costs, including a 6-month or 1-year separation period for no-fault cases and court filing fees.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Typical Cost | Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault | 2-4 months | $86 filing + legal fees | Chesapeake Circuit |
| Contested Divorce | Fault/No-fault | 9-18 months | $86 filing + higher legal fees | Chesapeake Circuit |
| Complex Equitable Distribution | Property Division | 12-24 months | $86 filing + experienced fees | Chesapeake Circuit |
| Child Custody (Standalone) | Best Interests | Varies | Filing fee + possible GAL | Chesapeake J&DR |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
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. 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
Case Results in Chesapeake
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive). We are a family law lawyer near Chesapeake. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. Available 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: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing: typically set within 21-60 days of motion. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee: approximately $86; sheriff service: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional 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 is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Custody is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors. Chesapeake J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
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 Services
Virginia Family Law Lawyer | Henrico County Family Law Lawyer | Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block | Richmond Office
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.