Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Chesapeake, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced family law representation in Chesapeake, Virginia, with 6 documented case results in Chesapeake courts. Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce without minor children or 1-year separation with children under Va. Code § 20-91. Our firm handles divorce, child custody, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes that determine divorce grounds, property division, child custody, and support obligations. The key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), and § 20-124.2 (custody best interests).
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court-specific information and forms, refer to the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Chesapeake Family Court Procedures
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at 307 Albemarle Drive. Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders.
- File initial pleadings at Chesapeake Circuit Court with required filing fee.
- Serve the other party with complaint and summons.
- Attend scheduling conference to establish case deadlines.
- Complete discovery including financial document exchange.
- Attempt settlement or mediation to resolve issues.
- Proceed to trial before a judge if necessary.
Family Law Penalties and Consequences
In Chesapeake, family law matters involve specific financial obligations and legal standards rather than traditional penalties. Virginia uses equitable distribution for property division and statutory guidelines for child support.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | No-fault after separation period | Court fees: $86+ | Property division required |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines based on income | Monthly payments based on formula | Enforcement through income withholding |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property | Asset division, possible buyout | Business valuation may be needed |
| Spousal Support | 13 statutory factors | Temporary or permanent payments | Tax implications |
Results may vary based on specific case facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience with specific knowledge of Chesapeake court procedures.
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 Chesapeake
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include successful divorce settlements, custody arrangements, and property division agreements.
Results may vary based on specific case facts and circumstances.
Local Representation in Chesapeake
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive). We represent clients throughout Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Chesapeake, 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.
How much does a divorce cost in Chesapeake, 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.
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). Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all property division.
How is child custody decided in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Custody in Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake J&DR Court handles standalone custody.
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 Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Chesapeake, see our Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer and Chesapeake DUI/DWI Lawyer pages. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.