Contested Divorce Lawyer Alexandria, VA

Your spouse has filed for divorce, but you can’t agree on anything — the house, custody of your children, or even who stays in the family home. The arguments have turned into a battle, and you’re facing a contested divorce in Alexandria, Virginia. You need a lawyer who knows the Alexandria Circuit Court and can fight for your interests. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team handle complex contested divorces throughout Northern Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 or (703) 589-9250 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.

Our Approach to Contested Divorce in Alexandria

When a divorce is contested, both sides disagree on one or more key issues: property division, spousal support, child custody, or the grounds for the divorce itself. The outcome of a contested divorce can affect your finances, your relationship with your children, and your future. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to contested divorce cases. Results may vary. They focus on building a strategy that identifies your goals, gathers the necessary financial and witness evidence, and asserts your position — whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation in the Alexandria Circuit Court. We work to achieve favorable outcomes while respecting the dignity of everyone involved.

What to Expect in Alexandria Circuit Court

Contested divorces in Alexandria are filed in the Alexandria Circuit Court at 520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320. The process begins when one spouse files a Complaint for divorce and serves it on the other. Once both sides have responded, the court may set temporary pendente lite hearings to address immediate issues like child support, spousal support, or use of the marital home. Discovery — exchanging financial documents, taking depositions, and engaging attorneys — is often the longest phase. If the case does not settle through negotiation or mediation, a trial determines the contested issues. The judge applies Virginia’s equitable distribution law, custody best-interest factors, and spousal support guidelines. Our team prepares each case as if it will go to trial, which often strengthens settlement negotiations.

For a full statutory breakdown of Virginia divorce laws, see our comprehensive analysis on srislawyer.com.

Meet Your Contested Divorce Legal Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced family law since 1997. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Alongside him, a team of seasoned Of Counsel attorneys contributes experience in family law, criminal defense, and CPS matters — all available to support complex contested divorce cases. Our Arlington location serves families in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Call (888) 437-7747 or (703) 589-9250 to learn how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Contested Divorce

What is a contested divorce in Virginia?

A contested divorce occurs when the spouses cannot agree on one or more issues, such as property division, spousal support, or custody. Either party may file on fault grounds — such as adultery or cruelty — or no-fault grounds after a required separation period. If the parties cannot resolve their differences through negotiation or mediation, the case goes to trial in the Alexandria Circuit Court. An experienced divorce lawyer can guide you through each stage, from filing the complaint to final decree.

How long does a contested divorce take in Alexandria?

Contested divorces in Alexandria typically take 9 to 18 months from filing to final decree, but complex cases involving business valuations or custody disputes may take longer. The timeline depends on the court’s calendar, the completion of discovery, and whether the case settles before trial. Temporary matters like support and custody can be resolved through pendente lite hearings within weeks of filing. Every case is unique, and our team works to move your matter forward as efficiently as possible.

How is property divided in a Virginia contested divorce?

Virginia follows equitable distribution, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The court classifies property as marital, separate, or hybrid, then considers factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and the tax consequences of division. The Alexandria Circuit Court applies these factors to determine a fair division. Separate property — assets owned before the marriage or received by gift or inheritance — is generally not subject to division.

Can I get spousal support during the divorce?

Yes, a pendente lite hearing can award temporary spousal support while the contested divorce is pending. The court considers the financial needs of the requesting spouse and the other spouse’s ability to pay. Permanent spousal support is decided as part of the final divorce decree based on statutory factors, including the marriage’s duration and each spouse’s earning capacity. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can advocate for temporary support orders that protect your financial stability during the case.

What are the grounds for a contested divorce in Virginia?

A contested divorce may be based on fault grounds such as adultery, cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment of more than one year. It may also proceed on no-fault grounds after the parties have lived separately for one year, or for six months if there are no minor children and a separation agreement is in place. The choice of ground can affect spousal support and property division, so it is critical to discuss your options with an experienced lawyer.

How is child custody decided in a contested divorce?

The Alexandria Circuit Court determines custody based on the best interests of the child, considering ten factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Those factors include the child’s age and health, the relationship with each parent, each parent’s role in the child’s upbringing, and any history of family abuse. A contested custody dispute may involve a guardian ad litem appointed to represent the child’s interests. Our team works to build a strong case that protects your parental rights and your child’s well-being.

Ready to Talk About Your Contested Divorce?

If you are facing a contested divorce in Alexandria, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team serve clients throughout Northern Virginia. Call (888) 437-7747 or (703) 589-9250. Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209 is available by appointment. We also represent clients in nearby communities like Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Falls Church.

Last reviewed: June 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.