Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Chesapeake, Virginia
In Chesapeake, divorce and family law matters are governed by Virginia statutes including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
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 in Chesapeake
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not a community property state. This means marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Other key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), and § 20-124.2 (custody best interests). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, bringing over 120 years of combined legal experience to Chesapeake family law cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Equitable distribution statute.
- Chesapeake General District Court website – Official court information and procedures.
Chesapeake Family Law Court Process
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing. A signed property settlement agreement can resolve all issues without a trial.
Steps for a Chesapeake Divorce Case
- Initial Consultation: Meet with our Chesapeake family law attorney to review your situation and goals.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney files the divorce complaint with the Chesapeake Circuit Court clerk.
- Discovery Phase: Both parties exchange financial documents and other relevant information.
- Negotiation & Mediation: Attempt to reach a settlement on property, support, and custody.
- Court Hearings: Attend hearings for temporary orders or, if necessary, a final trial.
- Final Decree: The court issues the final divorce decree, legally ending the marriage.
Virginia Divorce and Family Law Standards
In Chesapeake, family law follows Virginia’s equitable distribution standard; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month or 1-year separation period.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Timeline | Court Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault based on separation | 2-4 months | ~$86 filing + service fees |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or no-fault grounds | 9-18 months | Filing fees + discovery costs |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (10 factors) | Varies | Possible Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property (11 factors) | 12-24 months if complex | Business valuation & experienced fees |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Why Choose Our Chesapeake Family Law Firm
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a distinct advantage to Chesapeake family law cases. Founded in 1997, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and 4,739+ firm-wide case results. Most significantly, managing attorney Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. This deep, firsthand understanding of the law’s intent and application provides a strategic edge in negotiating and litigating property division for our Chesapeake clients.
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
Chesapeake Family Law Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results in Chesapeake across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. Our experience includes successfully handling uncontested and contested divorces, child custody modifications, and complex property division hearings in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Chesapeake Family Law Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive). We are a family law lawyer near Chesapeake, accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We serve the Chesapeake area and surrounding communities including Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — 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 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 Chesapeake, Virginia?
The Chesapeake Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+ for custody), 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 under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Chesapeake, 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 relationships, and any history of abuse. Chesapeake J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
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 Services
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – Serving a nearby locality.
- Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer – Different practice area in Chesapeake.
- Our Richmond Office – Location serving Chesapeake clients.
Last verified: February 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance regarding your Chesapeake family law matter.