Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Virginia Beach divorce is governed by Va. Code § 20-91, requiring a 6-month or 1-year separation for no-fault cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing full representation for divorce, custody, and property division under the equitable distribution statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. We handle your case at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50.
Virginia Beach Family Law Statutes and Definitions
Family law matters in Virginia Beach are primarily governed by the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds, Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution of marital property, Va. Code § 20-124.3 for child custody based on the child’s best interests, and Va. Code § 20-108.1 for child support guidelines. Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, bringing direct insight into this critical statute.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach 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-specific forms and procedures, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Family Law Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The 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 with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will prepare and file a Complaint for Divorce or other pleadings with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, paying the $86 filing fee.
- Service of Process and Response: The other party is served with the complaint. They have 21 days to file an Answer. If uncontested, a separation agreement may be signed.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both sides exchange financial information. Your attorney negotiates for a settlement on property division, support, and custody.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: Attend any necessary pendente lite or final hearings. The judge reviews the agreement or makes rulings. A Final Decree of Divorce is entered.
Virginia Beach Family Law Penalties and Procedures
In Virginia Beach, family law matters involve specific procedures and costs rather than criminal penalties. Divorce requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Typical Costs | Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | 2-4 months | Filing: ~$86 + service fees | Virginia Beach Circuit Court |
| Contested Divorce | Fault/No-Fault | 9-18 months | Filing fees + potential experienced costs (e.g., business valuator) | Virginia Beach Circuit Court |
| Child Custody (Standalone) | Best Interests Determination | Varies | Filing fees + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) | Virginia Beach J&DR Court |
| Equitable Distribution (Complex) | Marital Property Division | 12-24 months | Filing fees + forensic accountant fees | Virginia Beach Circuit Court |
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 to Virginia Beach family law cases. Our deep understanding of local court procedures, including the personal amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3 by Mr. Sris, provides a distinct advantage in negotiating property division and achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
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
Virginia Beach Family Law Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate in family law matters. These results include successful negotiations for property settlement agreements, favorable custody arrangements, and resolved support issues.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Virginia Beach Family Law Office
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters at the Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. As a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana, we serve the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement typically takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation before filing for no-fault divorce.
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 sheriff service fees (~$12), potential Guardian ad Litem fees for custody ($500-$2,500+), and mediation costs ($100-$300 per hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody is decided 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. 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 with an agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction resulting in imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need other legal services in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer or Virginia Beach DUI/DWI lawyer. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your Virginia Beach family law matter.