Augusta County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Augusta County family law matters, governed by statutes like Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce) and § 20-107.3 (property division), require precise legal handling. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for divorce, custody, and support cases in the Augusta County Circuit Court. Spring often sees an increase in family law filings as schedules change.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91, which outlines the grounds for divorce, and Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs how marital property is divided. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, uses this statutory framework to advocate for clients.
Last verified: March 2026 | Augusta County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family laws, refer to the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations). The Augusta County Circuit Court website provides local forms, filing fees, and procedural rules.
Augusta County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Augusta County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process typically involves filing a complaint, serving the other party, discovery, and often court-ordered mediation before a potential trial.
- File the initial complaint: Prepare and file a complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the Augusta County Circuit Court clerk’s office. Pay the required filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Ensure the defendant is properly served with the complaint and a summons, following Virginia court rules for service of process.
- Participate in discovery: Exchange financial documents and other relevant information through interrogatories, requests for production, and depositions as needed.
- Attend settlement conferences: The court may order mediation or a settlement conference to try to resolve issues without a full trial.
- Prepare for trial: If settlement fails, prepare evidence, exhibits, and witness testimony for a hearing before an Augusta County Circuit Court judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Augusta County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but can result in court orders for support, property division, and custody arrangements with significant financial and personal consequences.
| Matter | Legal Framework | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Va. Code § 20-91 et seq. | Dissolution of marriage, spousal support, property division. |
| Child Custody | Va. Code § 20-124.1 et seq. | Legal & physical custody orders, visitation schedules. |
| Child Support | Va. Code § 20-108.1 et seq. | Monthly support payments based on state guidelines. |
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Division of marital property, debts, and retirement accounts. |
Results may vary based on the specific facts of each case.
Firm Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s founder personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, the firm approaches each family law case with a focus on achieving stable resolutions for Virginia families.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Augusta County Family Law Assistance
Our Harrisonburg location is centrally located to serve Augusta County residents. We are accessible via I-81 and Route 11. Our family law lawyers serve Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, and the surrounding Augusta County communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
51 E Market St
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Augusta County, Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common is a one-year separation under Va. Code § 20-91(9). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Augusta County Circuit Court?
The court decides 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 reasonable preference if of sufficient age.
What factors affect spousal support in Virginia?
The court considers the needs of the requesting spouse, the other spouse’s ability to pay, the marriage’s duration, each spouse’s financial resources, and the standard of living established during the marriage.
How is property divided in an Augusta County divorce?
Virginia follows equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. The court classifies property as marital or separate and divides marital property fairly, not necessarily equally, based on statutory factors.
Can a custody or support order be modified?
Yes, if there is a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare or a parent’s ability to pay. You must file a petition with the Augusta County Circuit Court to request a modification.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Rockingham County and with related matters such as child custody. Learn more about Attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.