Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is defined by specific statutes. Va. Code § 20-91 establishes the grounds for divorce, including no-fault separation and fault-based grounds like adultery. Va. Code § 20-107.3 governs the equitable distribution of marital property, considering 11 factors for a fair division. This statute was personally amended by Mr. Sris. Va. Code § 20-124.3 outlines the “best interests of the child” standard for custody decisions.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6). For court-specific forms and procedures, refer to the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Family Court Process
Arlington County Circuit Court handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, 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 with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to review your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will file the divorce complaint with the Arlington County Circuit Court, paying the $86 filing fee and arranging for service of process.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information. Your lawyer will negotiate a settlement on property division, support, and custody if possible.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: Attend any required hearings for temporary orders. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. The court issues a final decree of divorce.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Arlington County
In Arlington County, family law matters involve specific legal standards: Virginia is an equitable distribution state, no-fault divorce requires a 6-month or 1-year separation, and child support is calculated using state guidelines based on combined income.
| Issue | Legal Classification | Court | Typical Timeline | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | Arlington Circuit Court | 2-4 months | Signed separation agreement, 6-month/1-year separation |
| Contested Divorce | No-Fault or Fault | Arlington Circuit Court | 9-18 months | Disputed property, custody, or support |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of Child | Arlington J&DR Court | Varies | 10 statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3 |
| Equitable Distribution | Marital Property Division | Arlington Circuit Court | 12-24 months (complex) | 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
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. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, providing unique insight into property division cases. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include cases involving divorce, child custody disputes, and complex property division.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County courts. We serve as a family law lawyer near Arlington County and the surrounding communities of Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, 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. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation period for no-fault divorce.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The Arlington County Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), Guardian ad Litem fees for custody ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Attorney fees vary based on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is not divided.
How is child custody decided in Arlington County, 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 relationships, and any history of abuse. Arlington County J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children with an 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, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Alexandria. If you need other legal services in Arlington County, consider our criminal defense or DUI/DWI defense attorneys. Learn more about our legal team.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.