Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Fairfax County, Virginia
Fairfax County family law matters, including divorce and equitable distribution, are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1789 documented case results in Fairfax County. We provide full representation for divorce, child custody, and support matters in Fairfax County Circuit Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors, not necessarily 50/50. Mr. Sris personally amended the equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), § 20-124.2 (custody based on the child’s best interests), and § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines). These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Fairfax County courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) – Official state statutes from the Virginia General Assembly.
- Fairfax County General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Fairfax County Family Law Process
Fairfax County Circuit Court handles divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. The Fairfax County 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 initial pleading (Complaint for Divorce, Petition for Custody/Support) at the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
- Serve the Other Party: Ensure proper service of process by sheriff, private process server, or acceptance of service.
- Attend Pendente Lite Hearing: If temporary orders are needed, a hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of filing a motion.
- Complete Discovery: Exchange financial affidavits, tax returns, and other documents through formal discovery.
- Attempt Settlement: Participate in mediation or settlement conferences to resolve issues without trial.
- Trial: Present evidence and arguments at a bench trial before a judge if settlement fails.
Family Law Standards & Potential Outcomes
In Fairfax County, family law matters involve equitable distribution of property, child support based on state guidelines, and custody determinations focused on the child’s best interests.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Timeline | Filing Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Equitable Distribution | 2-24 months | ~$86 + service |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of Child | Varies | ~$86 |
| Child Support | VA Guideline Calculation | Establishment hearing | ~$86 |
| Spousal Support | 13 Statutory Factors | Pendente lite hearing | Motion fee |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
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, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law.
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 Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1789 total documented case results across all practice areas in Fairfax County, with a 97% favorable outcome rate. These results include divorces, custody modifications, and support enforcement actions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a family law lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse, serving Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months. Contested divorces typically take 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary orders are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion fees, Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers 10 factors, including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children with an agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment.
Related Legal Resources
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Falls Church Family Law Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile – Learn more about the managing attorney.
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 updated guidance.