Virginia Beach Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
Virginia Beach family law matters, governed by statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution, require precise legal handling. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in divorce, custody, and support cases. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach based on over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have documented results in Virginia Beach and across Virginia.
A family law attorney helps you handle divorce, child custody, and support proceedings in Virginia Beach courts.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Family law in Virginia Beach is primarily governed by the Code of Virginia. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution of marital property, Va. Code § 20-124.2 for determining the best interests of the child in custody cases, and Va. Code § 20-108.1 for calculating child support guidelines. These laws provide the framework for resolving disputes when families separate.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
- Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6.1 (Divorce) – The official Virginia General Assembly website for divorce statutes.
- Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court – The official court website for family law matters in Virginia Beach.
Virginia Beach Family Court Process
Family law cases in Virginia Beach are heard in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (JDRDC) for matters involving children, and the Circuit Court for divorce finalization and property division. The process typically involves filing a complaint, temporary hearings, discovery, mediation, and potentially a trial.
- File initial pleadings: Submit a complaint or petition to the court clerk with the required filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Ensure proper legal service of all documents.
- Attend preliminary hearings: Address urgent issues like temporary custody or support.
- Complete discovery: Exchange financial affidavits and other required information.
- Participate in mediation: Attempt to settle issues with a neutral mediator.
- Proceed to trial: Present your case to a judge if settlement is not reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Virginia Beach, family law proceedings determine critical issues like asset division, child custody, and financial support, with outcomes based on statutory factors and evidence.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair, not necessarily equal, division of marital assets and debts. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (Va. Code § 20-124.2) | Legal and physical custody orders defining decision-making and living arrangements. |
| Child Support | Virginia Guidelines (Va. Code § 20-108.1) | Monthly payment amount based on parental income and custody schedule. |
| Spousal Support | Statutory Factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Potential for temporary or permanent support payments based on need and ability to pay. |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Virginia Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law cases. Mr. Sris personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. This direct involvement with the law provides a deep understanding of property division arguments in Virginia Beach courts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia allows both fault and no-fault divorce. The most common ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Virginia Beach?
The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court determines custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own wishes if they are of suitable age.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody involves the right to make major decisions about the child’s health, education, and welfare. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Both can be shared (joint) or awarded primarily to one parent (sole).
How is spousal support calculated in Virginia?
Virginia courts consider factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse’s contributions. There is no strict formula; the judge has discretion based on statutory guidelines.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3 is the court’s process of dividing marital property. It aims for a fair, but not necessarily equal, division based on factors like each spouse’s contributions, the marriage’s duration, and the property’s circumstances.
Family Law Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our firm serves clients in Virginia Beach and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Services
If you need assistance with other matters, explore our related practice areas:
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Our state-wide hub page for family law.
- Family Law Lawyer in Norfolk, VA – Serving the neighboring city.
- Divorce Lawyer in Virginia Beach, VA – Focused divorce representation.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.