Family Law Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
You have decided to end your marriage and you are facing a divorce proceeding in Virginia Beach. Your case will be heard in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, where a judge will divide marital property under Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20‑107.3. From the first consultation to the final decree, having a knowledgeable family law lawyer is crucial. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent clients in Virginia Beach family law matters — including contested and uncontested divorces, child custody disputes, spousal support, and property division. To schedule a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options
Every divorce in Virginia Beach presents a choice between negotiation and litigation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel first explore whether the spouses can reach a written separation agreement that resolves all issues — property classification and division, spousal support, child custody, and child support. When a complete agreement is signed, an uncontested divorce can proceed on the six‑month no‑fault ground under Va. Code § 20‑91(9)(b).
If the parties cannot agree, the matter becomes contested. In a contested case the firm litigates the disputed issues before the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. The team prepares detailed pleadings, engages in discovery, and, when appropriate, retains forensic accountants and business valuators to address complex marital estates. At every stage the goal is to position the client for a fair resolution — whether through a negotiated settlement or a trial.
What to Expect
After you contact us, a consultation allows Mr. Sris to understand your circumstances and explain how Virginia law applies to your situation. If you proceed, a complaint for divorce is filed in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, which has exclusive jurisdiction over divorce under Va. Code § 20‑96. The other spouse must be served with the complaint. The court may enter pendente lite orders under Va. Code § 20‑103 to address temporary support, custody, and use of the marital home while the case is pending.
Discovery follows, during which both sides exchange financial documents and other evidence. Mediation is available but not required. If the case does not settle, the court schedules a trial. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle all procedural requirements and advocate for your interests, helping you understand each step as it occurs.
Potential Outcomes
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. The court classifies property as marital, separate, or hybrid under Va. Code § 20‑107.3(A) and then divides the marital estate based on eleven statutory factors. A judge can award a spouse a percentage of retirement accounts, real estate, business interests, and other assets. Spousal support may be awarded under Va. Code § 20‑107.1 if a spouse demonstrates need and the other has the ability to pay.
Child custody decisions are made according to the trusted‑interests factors in Va. Code § 20‑124.3. The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody and support matters, while the Circuit Court addresses custody within the divorce case. Child support is calculated under the Virginia guidelines based on the parties’ combined gross income. Every outcome turns on the specific facts of the case; no two families are alike.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings extensive courtroom experience to family law matters. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, and the firm has achieved over 4,739 documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Virginia requires that at least one party be a resident and domiciliary of the Commonwealth for at least six months before filing a divorce complaint.
Source: Va. Code § 20‑97. Virginia Code § 20‑97
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Virginia Beach?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement typically resolves in a few months, while a contested divorce can take nine months or more. The exact timeline depends on the court’s calendar, the complexity of the issues, and whether custody or property fights require a trial. The Virginia Beach Circuit Court schedules matters according to its docket; the firm presses for timely progress while preparing each case thoroughly.
How much does a divorce cost in Virginia Beach?
Divorce costs vary widely depending on whether the case is contested or uncontested and the complexity of the property and custody issues. The Circuit Court charges a filing fee, and additional costs arise for service of process, mediation, and attorneys such as business valuators if needed. Attorney fees also depend on the time the case requires. For an estimate based on your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No, Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court considers eleven factors under Va. Code § 20‑107.3. Separate property (owned before marriage, received by gift or inheritance) is not divided. The Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles all property division as part of the divorce decree.
How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach?
Custody in Virginia Beach is determined by the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20‑124.3, which lists ten factors the court must consider. These include each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody petitions; custody as part of a divorce is decided by the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia allows both no‑fault and fault‑based grounds for divorce. No‑fault divorce requires one‑year separation, or six‑month separation if the parties have no minor children and a signed separation agreement (Va. Code § 20‑91(9)). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion for one year, and conviction of a felony with imprisonment for more than one year. The complaint is filed in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Virginia Beach?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but an experienced family law attorney can help protect your rights and navigate procedural requirements. Without counsel, you risk overlooking financial issues, custody arrangements, or deadlines that can have long‑term consequences. A consultation with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help you decide an appropriate approach for your matter.
Serving families in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana: Fairfax County family law lawyer · Fairfax (City) family law lawyer · Falls Church family law lawyer · Prince William County family law lawyer · Manassas family law lawyer
To discuss your Virginia Beach family law matter, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
Our Richmond Location serves clients in Virginia Beach by appointment.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201‑9009
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.