Fauquier County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Fauquier County family law matters, governed by statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution, require careful handling. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for divorce, custody, and support cases. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to address the details of your situation in the Fauquier County Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds, Va. Code § 20-124.2 for child custody factors, and Va. Code § 20-107.3 for the equitable distribution of marital property. These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Fauquier County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. This direct involvement with Virginia law provides a distinct perspective for clients.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law, refer to the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) on the official state legislature website. For local court procedures, visit the Fauquier County Circuit Court website.
Fauquier County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Fauquier County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process involves filing pleadings, discovery, and often court-ordered mediation. Judges here consider the specific factors outlined in Virginia law for each issue.
- File the initial complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the court clerk.
- Serve the legal papers on the other party according to Virginia rules.
- Exchange financial information and other evidence through discovery.
- Attend mediation or settlement conferences to try to resolve issues.
- Participate in any necessary temporary hearings for support or custody.
- Proceed to a final hearing or trial before a judge if no settlement is reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Fauquier County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but determine critical rights like child custody, support amounts, and property division. Filing fees and costs apply.
| Matter | Primary Legal Standard | Typical Timeline | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Va. Code § 20-91 et seq. | 6 months to 1+ years | Separation period, grounds, property division |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.2) | Varies | Parenting plans, decision-making authority |
| Child Support | Virginia Child Support Guidelines | Ongoing until modified | Income of both parents, healthcare, childcare costs |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Resolved with divorce | Classification of property as marital or separate, valuation |
| Spousal Support | Factors in Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Temporary or permanent | Need, ability to pay, marriage duration, standard of living |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled thousands of family law matters. Our approach is based on direct experience with Virginia statutes and local courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. A no-fault divorce requires living separately for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Fauquier County?
The court decides based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s needs. The court may award joint legal custody, sole custody, or shared parenting time.
What is equitable distribution in Virginia?
It is the fair, not necessarily equal, division of marital property and debts upon divorce. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions, the marriage’s duration, and economic circumstances. Mr. Sris personally amended the Virginia statute governing this process.
How is child support calculated?
Virginia uses official guidelines based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, and certain expenses like health insurance and childcare. The Fauquier County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court oversees support orders and modifications.
Can I modify a custody or support order?
Yes, if there is a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare or the parents’ financial situations. You must file a petition with the court that issued the original order. The change must be substantial and ongoing.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of handling family law matters. We work to achieve outcomes that address our clients’ goals regarding property, children, and support.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Family Law Help in Fauquier County
Our Virginia location serves Fauquier County and surrounding communities like Warrenton, Marshall, and The Plains. We are accessible to residents throughout the area.
Family law lawyer near Fauquier County. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, you may need a Loudoun County family law lawyer or a Prince William County family law lawyer. For other legal needs in Fauquier County, consider our Fauquier County criminal defense lawyer services. Learn more about Mr. Sris.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.