Divorce Lawyers Arlington VA — What Are Your Rights in a Virginia Divorce?
Divorce in Arlington County is governed by Virginia’s equitable distribution laws under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full divorce representation, handling complex issues like property division and child custody. Our Arlington County divorce lawyers have documented results in local family law cases. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Divorce Law and Arlington County Procedures
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, but not necessarily equally, by the court. The primary statute governing this process is Va. Code § 20-107.3, which outlines 11 factors the court must consider. For a no-fault divorce, Virginia requires a separation period: six months if you have no minor children and a signed separation agreement, or one year if you have minor children. Fault grounds, such as adultery or cruelty, do not have a mandatory waiting period.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s divorce statutes, refer to the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court forms and local rules for Arlington County can be found on the Arlington County Circuit Court website.
handling Divorce in Arlington County Courts
Arlington County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. A key local procedural fact is that Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing. Having a signed property settlement agreement can resolve all issues without a trial.
- Consult with a divorce attorney to understand your rights regarding assets, debts, and custody.
- File a Complaint for Divorce with the Arlington County Circuit Court clerk’s office and pay the filing fee.
- Serve the complaint on your spouse using a sheriff, private process server, or accepted waiver.
- Negotiate a settlement or prepare for court hearings on temporary support, custody, and property issues.
- Attend the final hearing to present your agreement or argue your case before a judge.
- Receive the final decree of divorce from the court, legally ending the marriage.
Potential Outcomes in a Virginia Divorce
In Arlington County, a divorce can result in the division of all marital property and debts, orders for spousal and child support, and legal decisions regarding child custody and visitation.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair, not equal, division of marital assets and debts. |
| Spousal Support | 13 Statutory Factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support based on need and ability to pay. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Legal and physical custody arrangements. |
| Child Support | Virginia Guidelines | Monthly payment based on combined income and custody share. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Family Law Matters
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings combined legal experience to each case. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally played a key role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team direct insight into the law’s application. We focus on providing clear guidance through the divorce filing process.
Case Results and Client Focus
Our approach to divorce representation is built on thorough preparation and understanding of local court procedures. We have handled numerous family law cases in Northern Virginia. For instance, attorney Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, often collaborates on cases involving complex financial investigations or procedural challenges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Divorce Lawyer Near Arlington County, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We are accessible for those seeking a divorce attorney near the Arlington County courts.
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 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions for Divorce Lawyers Arlington VA
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement can take 2-4 months from filing. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuations can take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation period for no-fault divorces.
How much does a divorce cost in Arlington County, Virginia?
The court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include fees for serving documents ($12-$100), motions, and possibly a Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+). Mediation costs $100-$300 per hour per party. Total costs depend on whether the divorce is contested.
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 assets owned before marriage, is typically not divided.
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 factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and any history of abuse. Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more. Fault can affect property division and support.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law hub page. We also assist with criminal defense in Arlington and DUI defense in Arlington.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.