Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County divorce is governed by Virginia’s equitable distribution system under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris), requiring a 6-month or 1-year separation for no-fault cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County, providing full representation for divorce, custody, and support matters. Our Arlington location serves clients by appointment only.
Virginia family law statutes define divorce grounds, property division, child custody, and support obligations. The Commonwealth follows equitable distribution principles, not community property, meaning marital assets are divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Divorce and Annulment) and Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders.
- Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to review your situation.
- File the divorce complaint at Arlington County Circuit Court with the $86 filing fee.
- Arrange for service of process through the sheriff or private process server.
- Attend pendente lite hearing if temporary orders are needed.
- Participate in discovery, mediation, and negotiation.
- Attend final hearing or trial to resolve remaining issues.
In Arlington County, family law matters involve court-ordered divisions and support obligations rather than criminal penalties.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Costs | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault | 2-4 months | $86 filing + service | Dissolution of marriage |
| Contested Divorce | Fault/No-fault | 9-18 months | $86+ filing + litigation | Division of assets/debts |
| Child Custody | Best interests standard | Varies | Guardian ad Litem $500-$2,500+ | Parenting time/decisions |
| Child Support | Guidelines calculation | Monthly obligations | Court costs | Financial support |
| Equitable Distribution | 11-factor analysis | 12-24 months complex | Forensic accountant fees | Property division |
Results may vary based on individual case facts and court discretion.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to family law matters in Arlington County.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location serves clients at Arlington County courts (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). Family law lawyer near Arlington County and surrounding communities.
We serve Arlington, 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 signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing: typically within 21-60 days of motion.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee: approximately $86; sheriff service: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; Guardian ad Litem for custody: $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50 under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property 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, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role and the child’s relationships. Arlington County J&DR Court handles standalone custody.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment).
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Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.