Family Law Lawyer Fairfax — What Are Your Rights in Divorce and Custody?
A Family Law Lawyer Fairfax from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles divorce, custody, and support under Virginia’s equitable distribution laws. In Fairfax County, a no-fault divorce requires a 6-month or 1-year separation. Our firm has 1789 documented case results in Fairfax County. We provide full representation for your family legal matters.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia family law is governed by statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution and § 20-124.3 for child custody. These laws provide the framework for dividing marital property and determining the best interests of children. A family court attorney Fairfax must be well-versed in these statutes to advocate effectively.
You can review the official Virginia family law statutes and the Fairfax County Circuit Court website for procedural information.
- File your initial complaint for divorce or custody with the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
- Serve the complaint and a summons on the other party according to Virginia rules.
- Attend any required orientation or mediation sessions ordered by the court.
- Exchange financial disclosures and participate in discovery if the case is contested.
- Attend settlement conferences and, if necessary, a final hearing before a judge.
In Fairfax County, family law matters involve equitable distribution of property and child support based on state guidelines.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | No-fault (separation) or Fault grounds | Dissolution of marriage, property division | 2-24 months |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (10 factors) | Legal & physical custody order | Varies |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines based on income | Monthly support order | Established at hearing |
| Spousal Support | 13 statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Temporary or permanent support | Decided pendente lite or final hearing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined experience. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This deep involvement with the law provides a significant advantage in complex property division cases.
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
Our firm has 1789 documented case results in Fairfax County across all practice areas, with a 97% favorable outcome rate. For family legal matters lawyer Fairfax clients trust, our team provides dedicated support. In one case, our attorneys secured a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a client facing a domestic assault charge in Fairfax County General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a family law lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse, serving communities like Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement can take 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 for no-fault divorce.
How much does a divorce cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), pendente lite motion fees, Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300/hour per party). Total costs vary significantly based on case complexity.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in Fairfax 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 Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, and felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
For more information, see our Virginia family law hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Falls Church and with related legal needs such as criminal defense in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact a Family Law Lawyer Fairfax at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.