Colonial Heights VA Contested Divorce Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
A contested divorce in Colonial Heights, VA, involves disputes over grounds, property, or custody that require court intervention under Va. Code § 20-91. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full divorce representation to protect your rights in Colonial Heights Circuit Court. Our Colonial Heights VA contested divorce lawyer can help you file a response and build a case strategy.
What Is a Contested Divorce in Virginia?
In Virginia, a contested divorce is a marriage dissolution where the spouses disagree on one or more legal issues that must be resolved by a judge. This differs from an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all terms. Common points of contention include grounds for divorce, equitable distribution of marital property and debts, spousal support, child custody, and child support. When you cannot reach an agreement, you need a Colonial Heights VA contested divorce lawyer to file the necessary pleadings and represent you in court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the law is critical. You can review the Virginia Code on Divorce and Annulment (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Colonial Heights Circuit Court website.
The Contested Divorce Process in Colonial Heights
The process for a contested divorce filing in Colonial Heights follows specific steps in Circuit Court. The court requires strict adherence to procedural rules and deadlines. An experienced divorce attorney can manage this process, from the initial complaint through discovery and potential trial.
- File a Complaint: One spouse files a Complaint for Divorce with the Colonial Heights Circuit Court, stating the grounds and relief sought.
- Serve the Defendant: The complaint is formally served on the other spouse, who then has 21 days to file an Answer.
- Discovery Phase: Both sides exchange financial information and other evidence through interrogatories, requests for documents, and depositions.
- Negotiation & Settlement Conferences: Attorneys and the court may schedule conferences to try to resolve issues without a trial.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions may be filed to address interim issues like temporary support or to define the scope of the trial.
- Trial: If settlement fails, a judge hears evidence and arguments before issuing a final decree deciding all contested matters.
Potential Issues in a Contested Divorce
In Colonial Heights, a contested divorce can involve disputes over property division, support, and parental rights, each with significant long-term consequences.
| Issue | Governing Law | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Division of marital property and debts based on fairness, not necessarily 50/50. |
| Spousal Support | Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Award based on need, ability to pay, length of marriage, and standard of living. |
| Child Custody & Visitation | Va. Code § 20-124.1 et seq. | Determined by the child’s best interests, focusing on health, safety, and welfare. |
| Child Support | Va. Code § 20-108.2 | Calculated using state guidelines based on income, custody arrangement, and other factors. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Colonial Heights Family Law
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to family law matters. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team deep insight into the law’s application. We focus on providing clear guidance through difficult family law proceedings.
Case Results & Client Focus
Our firm has a documented record of handling complex family law cases. While results are always case-specific, our approach is thorough and client-centered. We prepare each case for the possibility of trial while actively seeking fair settlements. Mr. Sris, with his background as a former prosecutor and deep familiarity with Virginia law, provides strategic oversight on complex contested divorces.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact a Colonial Heights Divorce Lawyer
Our firm is positioned to serve clients in Colonial Heights and the surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between contested and uncontested divorce in Virginia?
It depends on agreement. An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on all terms. A contested divorce means there is a disagreement on issues like property, support, or custody that requires a judge to decide.
How long does a contested divorce take in Colonial Heights?
It depends on the complexity and level of disagreement. A simple contested case may take several months, while a highly complex one with many assets or custody disputes can take a year or more to reach trial in Colonial Heights Circuit Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia has both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with no minor children and a separation agreement). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, and felony conviction.
Can I get spousal support in a contested divorce?
It depends. The court considers factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial needs and resources, and the standard of living during the marriage under Va. Code § 20-107.1. An award is not automatic.
How is property divided in a Virginia contested divorce?
Virginia is an equitable distribution state. The court divides marital property fairly, but not necessarily equally, based on factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. This includes contributions to the family, debts, and the length of the marriage.
If you want to see how a Colonial Heights case fits into the wider process, our page on contested divorce lawyer Virginia covers it from start to finish.