In Alexandria, Virginia, fault-based divorce grounds under Va. Code § 20-91 include adultery, cruelty, and desertion. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ firm-wide case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria can help you prove these grounds in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law recognizes fault grounds for divorce under Va. Code § 20-91. These grounds allow you to seek a divorce without the standard separation period. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria understands that adultery has no waiting period, while cruelty and desertion require specific proof. Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. since 1997, personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. His former prosecutor background gives him unique insight into building fault-based cases in Alexandria Circuit Court.
For the full text of Virginia’s divorce laws, see Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
In Alexandria Circuit Court, proving fault grounds requires corroborating evidence. The court at 520 King Street expects you to present witness testimony or documentation. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria knows the local judges’ preferences for evidence standards.
- File a complaint at Alexandria Circuit Court stating your fault ground.
- Serve the other party with the divorce papers.
- Gather corroborating evidence: emails, photos, witness statements.
- Attend the pendente lite hearing for temporary orders.
- Proceed to final hearing with your corroborating witness.
- Obtain the final divorce decree from the court.
In Alexandria, fault-based divorce carries no criminal penalty, but the court divides property equitably under Va. Code § 20-107.3.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adultery | Fault Ground | None | None | None | May affect spousal support |
| Cruelty | Fault Ground | None | None | None | May affect custody |
| Desertion | Fault Ground | None | None | None | 1-year waiting period |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. This achievement demonstrates deep knowledge of Virginia family law. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria from our firm brings this authority to your case.
SRIS actively practices in Alexandria. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Alexandria General District Court, our firm has obtained nolle prosequi dispositions in assault cases. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria can apply this experience to your family law matter.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near Alexandria courts at 520 King Street, accessible via I-395 and Route 1. A Fault Based Divorce Lawyer Alexandria serves clients in Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What are the fault grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia law under Va. Code § 20-91 recognizes adultery, cruelty, desertion for 1 year, and felony conviction with 1+ year imprisonment as fault grounds.
How long does a fault-based divorce take in Alexandria?
It depends. Adultery has no waiting period. Contested fault divorces take 9-18 months. Uncontested fault divorces with agreement take 2-4 months from filing.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. The court divides marital property fairly under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended.
How much does a fault-based divorce cost in Alexandria?
It depends. Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Sheriff service costs $12. Private process server costs $50-$100. Guardian ad Litem costs $500-$2,500+.
How is child custody decided in a fault-based divorce?
It depends. Custody is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Fault grounds may affect custody if they show parental unfitness.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.