Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County family law matters are governed by Virginia statutes including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody, and support matters in Arlington County Circuit Court and J&DR Court. By appointment only.
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not community property. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Arlington County
Virginia family law is codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), § 20-124.2 (custody based on best interests of the child), and § 20-107.1 (spousal support factors). Arlington County Circuit Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd) handles divorce and equitable distribution, while Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, and child support matters.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) on the Virginia General Assembly website. For Arlington County court information, forms, and procedures, refer to the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Family Law Process
Family law cases in Arlington County follow specific local procedures. Arlington County 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 trial.
- Initial consultation and case assessment: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to review your situation, goals, and the specific Arlington County procedures.
- Filing the complaint or petition: File the appropriate legal documents (e.g., divorce complaint, custody petition) with the Arlington County Circuit Court or J&DR Court, paying the required filing fees.
- Discovery and negotiation: Exchange financial information and other relevant documents with the other party. Attempt to reach a settlement through negotiation or mediation.
- Court hearings and trial preparation: Attend scheduled court hearings for temporary orders or settlement conferences. Prepare for trial if an agreement cannot be reached.
- Final order and post-judgment matters: Obtain the final court order (decree). Address any post-judgment enforcement or modification issues as needed.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Arlington County
In Arlington County, family law matters involve specific legal standards: Virginia is an equitable distribution state; no-fault divorce requires a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children); fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion for 1 year, or felony conviction.
| Offense / Issue | Classification / Standard | Court | Typical Timeline | Key Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault (separation) | Arlington Circuit Court | 2-4 months | Signed separation agreement, no minor children or 1-year separation |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or No-fault | Arlington Circuit Court | 9-18 months | Grounds, property division, custody disputes |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property | Arlington Circuit Court | 12-24 months (complex) | 11 statutory factors (Va. Code § 20-107.3), business valuation |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child | Arlington J&DR Court | Varies | 10 statutory factors (Va. Code § 20-124.3), parent-child relationship |
| Child Support | Guidelines based on income | Arlington J&DR Court | Ongoing | Combined gross income, number of children, custody arrangement |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This direct involvement in shaping Virginia family law provides a distinct advantage in Arlington County cases. Our Arlington location serves clients throughout the county and surrounding communities.
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 Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law and other matters handled at Arlington County courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Arlington County Family Law Lawyer
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County courts (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. Contact a family law lawyer near Arlington County for assistance. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, 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. Pendente lite hearings for temporary orders are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The Arlington County Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion fees, Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Attorney fees vary by case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Mr. Sris personally amended this statute. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is not divided.
How is child custody decided in Arlington County, 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. Arlington County 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 a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, see our Alexandria City Divorce & Family Lawyer page. For other legal needs in Arlington County, consider Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer or Arlington County DUI/DWI Lawyer. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.