Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Lexington, Virginia
Lexington, Virginia divorce cases are governed by statutes including Va. Code § 20-91 and the equitable distribution law, Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington. We provide full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division matters filed at Lexington Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Lexington
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), and § 20-124.2 (custody based on the child’s best interests). Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly Code
Official Legal Resources
Lexington Family Court Process
Family law matters in Lexington are split between courts. Lexington Circuit Court (2 South Main Street) handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. The Lexington Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders.
- 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 prepare and file the divorce complaint with the Lexington Circuit Court, paying the $86 filing fee and arranging for service of process.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information. Your attorney will negotiate a settlement on property division, support, and custody if possible.
- Court Hearings and Resolution: Attend any required hearings for temporary orders. If settlement is reached, a final hearing is scheduled. If not, the case proceeds to trial before a judge.
Lexington Divorce Penalties and Costs
In Lexington, divorce itself is not a penal offense, but failure to comply with court orders for support or custody can result in contempt penalties including fines and jail time. The financial costs of the legal process vary.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Consequences | Typical Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contempt of Court (e.g., non-payment of support) | Civil/Criminal Contempt | Fines, wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension, up to 10 days jail | Court costs + attorney fees |
| Divorce Filing | Civil Proceeding | Dissolution of marriage, property division, support orders | Filing: ~$86; Service: ~$12-$100 |
| Child Custody Dispute | Best Interests Determination | Court-ordered parenting plan, possible Guardian ad Litem | GAL: $500-$2,500+; Mediation: $100-$300/hr |
Results may vary. The outcomes and costs described are based on typical Lexington Circuit Court procedures and are not a aim for for any specific case.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. A key differentiator is that Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team direct insight into the law’s intent and application.
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 Experience in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. Our experience includes negotiating property settlements and advocating for parental rights in Lexington Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. Our family law lawyer near Lexington represents clients throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location
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 Lexington, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement typically takes 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases involving business valuation can take 12-24 months. Temporary support hearings are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Lexington, Virginia?
The Lexington Circuit Court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($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 uses equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is not divided.
How is child custody decided in Lexington, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests (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 go to J&DR Court; custody within divorce goes to Circuit Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no wait), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with one year of imprisonment.
Related Legal Resources
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your Lexington family law matter.