Divorce Lawyer Near Me
Searching for a divorce lawyer near you in Arlington, Virginia, brings you to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Founded in 1997, our firm has served clients in family law matters throughout Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm and a former prosecutor, works with his Of Counsel team to handle divorce cases ranging from uncontested dissolutions to high-asset, complex property division. With over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results, the firm provides representation in contested and uncontested divorce, spousal support, child custody, child support, and related family law proceedings. Results may vary. Whether you are considering filing for divorce, have been served with divorce papers, or need to modify an existing decree, we can review your circumstances and discuss your legal options. To schedule a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Divorce Means in Arlington, Virginia
Divorce in Virginia is governed by Title 20 of the Virginia Code. The state is an equitable distribution jurisdiction, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily equally. The process involves filing a complaint for divorce in the circuit court of the county or city where at least one spouse resides. For Arlington residents, that court is the Arlington County Circuit Court, located at 1425 North Courthouse Road. The Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone child custody, visitation, child support, and protective order matters, while the Circuit Court addresses the divorce itself and all related property and spousal support issues.
Virginia recognizes both fault and no‑fault grounds for divorce under Va. Code § 20‑91. No‑fault divorce requires the parties to live separate and apart for one year—or for six months if they have no minor children and have entered into a written separation agreement. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, and a felony conviction resulting in imprisonment for more than one year. The ground selected can affect property division and spousal support. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly before the Arlington County courts and are familiar with the local procedural expectations and the statutory factors the judge considers. Virginia also requires at least six months of residency for one of the parties to file, and the complaint must state the grounds with sufficient specificity.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Divorce Cases
Every divorce case begins with a thorough evaluation of the client’s circumstances. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel review the length of the marriage, the income and assets of each party, any existing separation agreement, and the needs of children when they are involved. Where the parties can reach an agreement, the firm drafts and negotiates a comprehensive separation agreement that resolves property division, support, and custody, allowing the divorce to proceed on an uncontested track. When settlement is not possible, the firm prepares the case for litigation, handling discovery, motions, and trial advocacy.
Because Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor, he brings insight into courtroom dynamics and the standards of proof required at trial. The team’s approach is to work toward a favorable resolution—whether through negotiation or litigation—while keeping the client informed at each step. The court’s calendar, the complexity of the marital estate, and the level of disagreement between the parties all influence the timeline. The firm does not promise a particular outcome, but draws on extensive experience in Virginia family law to present the strong $1 for each client.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he concentrates his practice on family law, criminal defense, and complex litigation. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), the bill that revised Va. Code § 20‑107.3(g) regarding equitable distribution of retirement assets. His background in accounting and information systems provides an analytical edge in cases involving business valuation, stock options, and complex property division.
Mr. Sris works alongside a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each with extensive litigation experience. The group collectively brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. Past outcomes do not guarantee a future result. On every matter, the firm draws on its knowledge of Virginia statutes and local court practice to pursue a resolution that aligns with the client’s objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia allows both fault and no‑fault grounds for divorce. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, and felony conviction with imprisonment of more than one year. No‑fault divorce is available after a separation of one year, or six months if there are no minor children and a written separation agreement exists. The choice of ground can influence property division and spousal support. An experienced attorney can explain which ground best fits your circumstances.
How does equitable distribution work in Virginia?
Virginia is an equitable distribution state under Va. Code § 20‑107.3. Marital property includes assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property—such as gifts or inheritances—remains with the owning spouse. The court divides marital property based on factors like each party’s contributions, the duration of the marriage, and the circumstances that led to the divorce. Equitable distribution means a fair, not necessarily equal, division. Complex assets like businesses, professional practices, and retirement accounts often require careful valuation.
Do I need a lawyer for a divorce in Arlington?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to file for divorce, but having experienced representation is important when property, support, or child custody is involved. A lawyer can ensure the complaint is properly drafted, negotiate a separation agreement that protects your interests, and present your position at trial. In a contested case, your spouse may be represented by counsel, making it particularly important to have your own legal advocate.
How long does a divorce take in Arlington?
The timeline depends on whether the divorce is contested or uncontested. An uncontested divorce where the parties have already resolved all issues through a separation agreement can be finalized relatively quickly after filing. A contested divorce—where the parties disagree on property, support, or custody—takes longer due to discovery, motion practice, and the court’s schedule. The length of the marriage and the complexity of the assets also affect the timeline.
Can I get divorced without my spouse’s consent in Virginia?
Yes. If you can establish statutory grounds, you can obtain a divorce even if your spouse does not agree. For a no‑fault divorce, living separate and apart for the required period is sufficient, regardless of consent. A fault‑based divorce, such as adultery, may proceed without a waiting period if evidence supports the claim. The court can grant the divorce as long as you meet the legal requirements.
How is child custody decided in Virginia?
Custody in Virginia is determined by the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20‑124.3. The court considers factors including the child’s age and health, the relationship with each parent, the parent’s ability to support the child’s relationship with the other parent, any history of abuse, and the child’s reasonable preference. The Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles initial custody and visitation orders, while the Circuit Court may address custody within a divorce case.
For additional primary‑source authority, consult Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations), Arlington County Circuit Court, and Virginia Judicial System.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.