Family Law Lawyer Arlington County — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Family law matters in Arlington County are governed by Virginia statutes, including equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 documented case results in Arlington County. Our family law lawyer Arlington County team provides full representation for divorce, custody, and support cases filed at the Arlington County Circuit Court. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for Arlington County
Family legal matters in Arlington County are primarily handled under Title 20 of the Virginia Code. The core statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds, § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution of marital property, § 20-124.2 for custody based on the child’s best interests, and § 20-108.1 for child support guidelines. Virginia is not a community property state; it follows equitable distribution principles, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors, not necessarily 50/50.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly Title 20
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 on the state legislature’s website. For local court procedures and forms, refer to the Arlington County Circuit Court website.
Arlington County Family Court Procedures
In Arlington County, divorce and equitable distribution cases are filed in the Circuit Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. Standalone custody, visitation, and child support matters are initiated in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing. A signed property settlement agreement can resolve all issues without a trial.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss your situation with a family law lawyer Arlington County to understand your rights and options under Virginia law.
- Case Filing: Your attorney will prepare and file the appropriate petition (e.g., for divorce, custody) with the correct Arlington County court and arrange for service of process.
- Discovery & Negotiation: The financial disclosure phase begins. Your lawyer will negotiate for a settlement on property, support, and custody matters.
- Resolution: If a settlement is reached, a final agreement is drafted and presented to the court. If not, the case proceeds to a trial before a judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Legal Matters
In Arlington County, family law outcomes are determined by Virginia statutes and judicial discretion, with no fixed penalties but significant financial and personal consequences.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | No-fault (separation period) or Fault grounds | Dissolution of marriage | Court costs, attorney fees, division of assets/debts |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair division of marital property | Division of real estate, retirement accounts, businesses |
| Spousal Support | Based on 13 statutory factors | Temporary or permanent support order | Monthly payments based on need and ability to pay |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (10 factors) | Legal & physical custody arrangement | Costs for Guardian ad Litem, parenting classes |
| Child Support | Virginia Guideline calculation | Monthly support order | Ongoing payment based on combined income |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Arlington County Family Court
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. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to family court attorney Arlington County cases. We have a documented record of 115 case results in Arlington County across all practice areas. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia law and local court procedures.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has 115 total documented case results in Arlington County across all practice areas. In family law and related matters, our strategic approach focuses on achieving favorable resolutions, whether through negotiation or litigation. For instance, we have successfully secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) in Arlington County domestic assault cases, which often intersect with family court proceedings. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Secondary counsel on complex cases is often provided by firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute and is admitted in VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY.
Contact Our Arlington County Family Law Office
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Arlington location serves clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We represent clients at the Arlington County courts. Contact us for directions and appointment scheduling.
Family Law Lawyer Arlington County FAQ
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a signed agreement takes 2-4 months. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation before filing for no-fault divorce.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion fees, and potentially a Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) or mediation ($100-$300/hour). Attorney fees vary based on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, not necessarily 50/50. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is typically 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 relationships, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases are filed in J&DR Court.
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 felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other legal issues in Arlington County, our firm also provides representation for criminal defense and DUI/DWI charges. For a broader overview of our family law services, visit our Virginia family law hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria City.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your family law matters in Arlington County.