Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County family law matters, including divorce, are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. Our Arlington location provides full representation for divorce, child custody, and support matters. By appointment only.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Arlington County
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, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors, not necessarily 50/50.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly Code
Official Legal Resources
For the most current statutory language, refer to the official Virginia Code: Va. Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations). For Arlington County court procedures and forms, visit the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Family Law Court Process
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your family law goals with an attorney to understand your rights and options.
- Document Preparation: Gather financial records, asset documentation, and any existing agreements.
- Pleadings Filing: File the appropriate complaint or petition with the correct Arlington County court and pay the filing fee.
- Discovery & Negotiation: Exchange required financial disclosures and attempt to reach a settlement through negotiation or mediation.
- Court Hearings: Attend any necessary hearings for temporary orders or to resolve contested issues.
- Final Resolution: Obtain a final decree from the court, either by agreement after a hearing or following a trial.
Arlington County Family Law Procedures & Potential Outcomes
In Arlington County, family law matters involve specific court procedures and financial considerations, not criminal penalties. The process and costs are defined by statute and local court rules.
| Matter | Court | Typical Timeline | Filing Fee & Common Costs | Key Legal Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | Arlington Circuit Court | 2-4 months | $86 filing + service fees | 6-month/1-year separation |
| Contested Divorce | Arlington Circuit Court | 9-18 months | $86 filing + discovery costs | Equitable distribution factors |
| Child Custody | Arlington J&DR Court | Varies | Motion fees + possible GAL | Child’s best interests |
| Child Support | Arlington J&DR Court | Establishment hearing | Motion fees | VA guideline calculation |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This direct involvement in shaping Virginia family law provides a distinct advantage in complex property division cases.
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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include dismissals, favorable settlements, and reductions in contested issues.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation in Arlington
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We are a family law lawyer near Arlington County Courthouse, serving Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody: typically set within 21-60 days of motion. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody and mediation.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Arlington County Circuit Court handles all property division. Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Arlington County, Virginia?
Custody in Arlington County is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Arlington County J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Arlington County Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Arlington County Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer Hub | Alexandria City Family Law Lawyer | Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block Profile | Arlington Law Office Location
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.