Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County divorce is governed by Virginia’s equitable distribution laws under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. We provide full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division. Our Arlington location is by appointment only.
Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce without minor children, or a 1-year separation if minor children are involved.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Arlington County
Family law matters in Arlington County are adjudicated under 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). The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, personally amended the equitable distribution statute, providing unique insight into its application.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). The Arlington County General District Court website provides local forms, filing information, and contact details.
Arlington County Family Court Process
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- File a Complaint: Submit the initiating pleading (Complaint for Divorce) with the Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and pay the filing fee.
- Serve the Other Party: Have the documents formally delivered by a sheriff, private process server, or accepted service.
- Complete Discovery: Exchange mandatory financial disclosures and other relevant information.
- Negotiate Settlement: Work towards a property settlement agreement to avoid trial.
- Attend Hearings/Trial: Appear for any temporary support hearings and, if necessary, a final trial before a judge.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Arlington County
In Arlington County, family law matters involve equitable distribution of property, not penalties; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month or 1-year separation period.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Timeline | Potential Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | 6-month/1-year separation + agreement | 2-4 months | Court fees + legal fees |
| Contested Divorce | Court decides based on statutory factors | 9-18 months | Court fees + legal fees + experienced costs |
| Child Support | Virginia Guideline calculation | Established at hearing | Court filing fees |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division per Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Varies with complexity | Possible business valuation fees |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm’s combined legal experience exceeds 120 years, with over 4,739 case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), providing a distinct advantage in complex property division cases for Arlington County residents.
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. These results include dismissals, favorable settlements, and reductions in contested matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. Consultations are available 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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300/hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50.
How is child custody decided in Arlington County, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and any history of abuse.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Alexandria. If you need assistance with other matters, see our Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer page. Learn more about our attorneys.
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.