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. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody under Va. Code § 20-124.3, and equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended.
Virginia Beach Family Law Statutes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Child custody decisions are made according to the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Child support follows statewide guidelines in Va. Code § 20-108.1.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court forms and procedures, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody and child support cases.
- File the initial complaint: File a Complaint for Divorce at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court Clerk’s Office, paying the $86 filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Have the complaint served on your spouse by a sheriff ($12) or private process server.
- Attend the pendente lite hearing: If temporary support is needed, attend a hearing typically set within 21-60 days.
- Complete discovery and mediation: Exchange financial documents. Attend mediation if ordered.
- Proceed to final hearing or trial: Attend the final uncontested hearing or a contested trial.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, family law matters involve specific legal standards: no-fault divorce after a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation, with fault grounds including adultery, cruelty, or desertion.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Typical Costs | Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | 2-4 months | $86 filing + service fees | Circuit Court |
| Contested Divorce | Fault/No-Fault | 9-18 months | $86 filing + discovery + trial costs | Circuit Court |
| Child Custody | Best Interests Standard | Varies | Filing fees + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) | J&DR or Circuit |
| Equitable Distribution | 11-Factor Analysis | 12-24 months if complex | Filing fees + business valuation costs | Circuit Court |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and court discretion.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a background in accounting and information systems to complex financial divorces. He personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney 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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters handled locally.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Virginia Beach Family Law Service
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-264 and I-64. We are a family law lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana, serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
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?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing. 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 before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Service of process costs $12-$100. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300/hour per party). Total cost depends on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended. Separate property is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering factors like each parent’s role and the child’s relationships. Virginia Beach 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 agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer | Henrico County Family Law Lawyer | Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Mr. Sris Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.