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Divorce & Family Law Attorney in Alexandria, Virginia
In Alexandria, Virginia, family law matters like divorce and custody are governed by Va. Code § 20-91 and § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our team, led by a former prosecutor, provides case-specific representation for your family’s future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Statutory Definition of Family Law in Virginia
Virginia family law covers divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division. The state is an equitable distribution jurisdiction, meaning marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily equally. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), and § 20-124.2 (custody best interests). Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, a significant achievement in Virginia family law.
External Citation Links
- Va. Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Alexandria General District Court — official court website
- Step 1: Determine Grounds. Decide between no-fault (separation) or fault-based grounds. This affects your timeline and strategy.
- Step 2: File a Complaint. File your divorce complaint at the Alexandria Circuit Court, located at 520 King Street. The filing fee is approximately $86.
- Step 3: Serve Your Spouse. Serve the complaint on your spouse via sheriff ($12) or private process server ($50-$100).
- Step 4: Negotiate or Mediate. Attempt to reach a settlement on property, custody, and support. Mediation costs $100-$300/hour per party.
- Step 5: Attend Court Hearings. If unresolved, attend pendente lite hearings for temporary orders. These are typically set within 21-60 days of a motion.
- Step 6: Final Decree. Once all issues are resolved, the court issues a final divorce decree. Uncontested cases take 2-4 months; contested cases take 9-18 months.
In Alexandria, Virginia, family law cases involve divorce, custody, and support. Penalties for non-compliance can include contempt of court, fines, and jail time.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce (No-Fault) | 6-month or 1-year separation | Final decree dissolving marriage |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Joint or sole legal/physical custody |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines based on combined income | Monthly support order |
| Spousal Support | 13 statutory factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Periodic or lump-sum award |
| Property Division | Equitable distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair division of marital assets |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Alexandria, our team has secured dismissals in assault cases (nolle prosequi). Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3).
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington Location
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
24/7 phone consultations. By appointment only.
Our Arlington location is a short drive from the Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We serve clients in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. If you need a trial separation lawyer Alexandria or a temporary separation lawyer Alexandria, we can help. For those considering separation before divorce lawyer Alexandria, we provide clear guidance on your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Contested divorce takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months.
How much does a divorce cost in Alexandria, Virginia?
It depends. The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12 sheriff, $50-$100 private), Guardian ad Litem ($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 but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which was personally amended by Mr. Sris.
How is child custody decided in Alexandria, Virginia?
It depends. Custody is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role and the child’s relationship with each parent. Alexandria J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Yes. No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children). Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), and felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment).