
Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Fairfax County family law cases, including divorce and child custody, are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. Our Fairfax County family law lawyer provides full representation for your divorce, custody, or support matter. Spring break often sees increased custody disputes as parents plan separate vacations with children.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds, Va. Code § 20-124.2 for child custody factors, and Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution of marital property. These laws provide the framework for all family law proceedings in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Fairfax County court procedures and forms, refer to the Fairfax County Circuit Court website.
Fairfax County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Fairfax County are heard in the Circuit Court. The court strongly encourages mediation through its Family Mediation Program before setting a contested matter for trial.
- File initial pleadings (complaint for divorce, custody petition) with the Circuit Court Clerk.
- Serve the other party with the filed documents according to Virginia rules.
- Attend the court’s scheduling conference to set discovery and mediation deadlines.
- Exchange financial documents and complete discovery.
- Participate in court-ordered mediation to attempt settlement.
- Prepare for and attend final hearing if mediation does not resolve all issues.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Fairfax County, family law matters do not carry criminal penalties but can result in court orders for child support, spousal support, property division, and custody arrangements with significant long-term financial and personal consequences.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | No-fault or fault grounds | Dissolution of marriage, property division | Equitable distribution of assets/debts |
| Child Custody | Best interests of child | Legal & physical custody orders | Child support obligations |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines | Monthly support payments | Based on income, custody time |
| Spousal Support | Statutory factors | Temporary or permanent support | Based on need and ability to pay |
| Property Division | Equitable distribution | Division of marital property | Fair but not necessarily equal split |
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 brings 120+ years of combined legal experience to family law cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. Our tagline reflects our approach: Global advocacy. Local precision.
Samantha Powers
Family Law Attorney
Virginia Bar 2023 | Florida Bar 2005
J.D./M.A. University of Florida 2005 | Ph.D. Communication UCSB 2017
18+ years experience handling divorce, custody, and support matters.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Fairfax location is minutes from the Fairfax County Circuit Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve as a family law lawyer near Fairfax County and the communities of Annandale, Burke, Centreville, and Springfield. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
10513 Judicial Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a separation agreement can finalize in 2-3 months. A contested divorce with property or custody disputes often takes 9-18 months in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
What factors determine child custody in Virginia?
Virginia courts consider the child’s best interests, including each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s preference if mature enough.
How is property divided in a Virginia divorce?
Virginia follows equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. The court divides marital property fairly, not necessarily equally, based on factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration.
Can I get alimony in Fairfax County?
Yes, if you meet statutory criteria. The court considers factors like the marriage’s length, each spouse’s financial needs and resources, and the standard of living established during the marriage.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody involves decision-making rights for the child’s health, education, and welfare. Physical custody determines where the child lives. Both can be shared (joint) or awarded primarily to one parent.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Arlington family law lawyer and Alexandria family law lawyer. In Fairfax County, we handle related matters including criminal defense and immigration. Learn more about attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.