Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County divorce is governed by Virginia’s equitable distribution laws under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. We provide full representation for divorce, child custody, and property division matters filed at the Arlington County Circuit Court.
Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce if there are no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation if minor children are involved.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Arlington County
Family law in Arlington County operates under the Virginia Code. The primary 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 the child’s best interests), and § 20-107.1 (spousal support factors). Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team direct insight into the equitable distribution process.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
Arlington County Family Law Procedure
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- 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: Your attorney files the appropriate documents (divorce complaint, custody petition) with the Arlington County Circuit Court or J&DR Court, paying the required filing fees.
- Discovery and negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information and other evidence. Your attorney negotiates for a settlement on property division, support, and custody.
- Court hearings and final resolution: Attend required hearings. If settlement is not reached, the case proceeds to trial before an Arlington County judge for a final decision.
Divorce Penalties and Costs in Arlington County
In Arlington County, divorce carries no criminal penalty but involves court costs, potential support obligations, and the equitable division of marital assets and debts.
| Offense | Classification | Financial Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce Filing | Civil Action | Court fee: ~$86 + service costs | Division of property, potential alimony/child support |
| Child Support Non-Payment | Contempt of Court | Wage garnishment, liens, fines | Driver’s license suspension, passport denial, jail |
| Violation of Custody Order | Contempt of Court | Court costs, attorney fees | Modified custody arrangement, supervised visitation |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are based on past cases and depend on the specific facts of each situation.
Firm Credentials and Local Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach. In Arlington County, we have a documented record of handling family law matters effectively, drawing on Mr. Sris’s direct involvement in amending the state’s equitable distribution statute.
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
Arlington County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County across all practice areas. Our attorneys work to achieve favorable outcomes in divorce, custody, and support matters through negotiation and, when necessary, litigation in Arlington County courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals and families throughout the Arlington area and surrounding communities, including Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The Arlington County Circuit Court filing fee 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/hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance) is excluded.
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 relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children + agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for 1 year, or felony conviction with 1+ year imprisonment.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Our state hub page for family law information.
Alexandria Divorce & Family Lawyer – Representation in a neighboring Virginia locality.
Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Help with related legal matters in Arlington.
Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about our Of Counsel attorney.
Arlington, VA Law Location – Details about our local office.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current guidance on your Arlington County family law matter.