Arlington County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Arlington County family law matters like divorce and child custody are governed by Virginia statutes, including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation with firm-wide experience across Virginia. Spring break often leads to increased family tension and initial divorce consultations in March.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), Va. Code § 20-107.1 (spousal support), Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of property), and Va. Code § 20-124.2 (child custody best interests). Mr. Sris, founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm was founded in 1997.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law, see Va. Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Arlington County court information, visit the Arlington County Circuit Court website.
Arlington County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Arlington County are heard in the Circuit Court for divorce and equitable distribution, and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for custody, visitation, and child support. Filing fees and procedures differ between courts.
- File initial pleadings with the correct court clerk’s office.
- Serve the other party with the legal papers.
- Attend preliminary hearings for temporary orders.
- Complete financial discovery and disclosures.
- Participate in mediation or settlement conferences.
- Proceed to a bench trial if settlement is not reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Arlington County, family law outcomes vary widely based on the facts; courts can order divorce, divide property, set child and spousal support, and establish custody arrangements.
| Matter | Court Authority | Potential Outcomes | Governing Statute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Circuit Court | Dissolution of marriage, restoration of maiden name | Va. Code § 20-91 et seq. |
| Property Division | Circuit Court | Equitable distribution of marital assets/debts | Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
| Spousal Support | Circuit Court | Temporary or permanent monetary award | Va. Code § 20-107.1 |
| Child Custody/Visitation | JDR District Court | Legal/physical custody schedules, parenting plans | Va. Code § 20-124.1 et seq. |
| Child Support | JDR District Court | Monthly support based on guidelines | Va. Code § 20-108.2 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Global advocacy. Local precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Arlington County, Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Arlington County?
The Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court decides custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s relationship with the child, ability to provide care, and the child’s adjustment to home and school. The court favors arrangements promoting frequent contact with both parents.
How is spousal support calculated in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia courts consider statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the needs and financial resources of each party, the standard of living during the marriage, duration of marriage, and each party’s contributions. There is no strict formula; awards vary by case.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the court’s division of marital property under Va. Code § 20-107.3. ‘Equitable’ means fair, not necessarily equal. The court classifies property as marital or separate, values it, and divides marital assets and debts based on multiple statutory factors.
How long does a divorce take in Arlington County?
Timelines vary. An uncontested divorce with an agreement can finalize in a few months after filing. A contested divorce with custody or property disputes can take a year or more, depending on court scheduling and case complexity in Arlington County Circuit Court.
Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide documented results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Service
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve as a family law lawyer near Arlington County and the communities of Clarendon, Ballston, Crystal City, and Pentagon City. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
2100 Clarendon Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Information
Virginia Family Law Lawyer | Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer | Arlington County Divorce Lawyer | Attorney Samantha Powers Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.