Separation Agreement Lawyer Alexandria, VA
You and your spouse have decided to live apart. The next step—working out the terms of your separation—can feel overwhelming. Will you need to divide a home, handle retirement accounts, or create a parenting plan? A formal separation agreement lets you settle these questions outside the pressure of a courtroom. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team help Alexandria residents craft separation agreements that reflect their real priorities. Reach our Arlington location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a confidential discussion. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Approach Separation Agreements
Every separation agreement is built around the people who will live with it. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel start by listening—to what matters most to you, to the financial realities of your household, and to the relationships you want to protect. They then identify the legal framework under Virginia Code § 20-109 that governs property settlement agreements, so your document is enforceable and thorough.
The team draws on over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Results may vary. This depth allows them to spot issues that a do-it-yourself form might miss—retirement plan division, tax implications of support payments, or how a future divorce might interact with the agreement. Every draft is reviewed against the couple’s specific circumstances, not against a generic template.
What to Expect When Working with a Separation Agreement Lawyer
The process begins with a consultation where you provide a clear picture of your finances, your children’s needs, and your goals. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel then draft a proposal that addresses property classification, spousal support, custody, and any other matters you identify. You and your spouse review the draft, often with independent counsel for each side, to ensure fairness.
After both parties agree, the agreement is signed and notarized. In Virginia, a properly executed separation agreement can form the basis of a no‑fault divorce after the applicable separation period. If disputes arise later, a well‑drafted agreement provides a strong foundation for enforcement. Throughout, the firm’s approach is to keep you informed in plain language—not legal jargon.
Separation Agreements Under Virginia Law
Virginia Code § 20-109 recognizes that written separation agreements, when signed and acknowledged by both parties, are valid and enforceable. These agreements can resolve all issues that would otherwise be litigated in a divorce: division of marital property, allocation of debts, spousal support, and, when included, custody and visitation. Because Virginia is an equitable distribution state, the agreement can define what is marital and what is separate, avoiding a contested court proceeding.
A separation agreement does not end a marriage—only a court decree does—but it creates the roadmap for a later uncontested divorce. For full statutory analysis, see our comprehensive discussion of Virginia divorce law on the firm’s main website.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced family law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), legislation that revised portions of the equitable distribution statute.
Mr. Sris is joined by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive litigation and family law experience. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented over 4,739 case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Separation Agreements in Virginia
What is a separation agreement?
A separation agreement is a written contract between spouses who are living apart or planning to separate. It addresses the division of property, debts, spousal support, and—when the parties choose—child custody and visitation. In Virginia, separation agreements are governed by Va. Code § 20-109 and are enforceable once signed and acknowledged. The agreement serves as a private resolution of marital affairs and, if filed with an uncontested divorce complaint, can eliminate the need for litigation.
Do I need a lawyer to draft a separation agreement?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, having an experienced attorney makes sure the agreement is thorough, legally sound, and tailored to your circumstances. A lawyer can help you identify assets and debts you may not have considered, address tax consequences, and draft provisions that will survive a later divorce proceeding. For guidance specific to your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How is a separation agreement different from a divorce?
A separation agreement settles financial and parental issues while the marriage remains intact. It does not end the marriage. A divorce is a court decree that legally dissolves the marriage. In Virginia, a separation agreement can be incorporated into a final divorce decree, making its terms enforceable by the court, but the agreement itself does not grant a divorce. To discuss how the two work together, reach our Arlington location at (888) 437-7747.
What should a separation agreement include?
A comprehensive separation agreement typically covers identifying and classifying marital and separate property, dividing assets and debts, determining spousal support, and—if applicable—establishing custody, parenting time, and child support. Because every family’s finances and dynamics are different, the precise contents vary. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with each client to ensure nothing is overlooked and that the agreement reflects your priorities.
Can a separation agreement be changed later?
Yes, with the mutual consent of both spouses and proper execution. Changes should be made in writing and signed with the same formalities as the original agreement. If circumstances change significantly—such as a job loss or relocation—the parties can modify support or custody provisions. Having an attorney prepare or review the modification helps ensure it is enforceable under Virginia law.
Does a separation agreement affect child custody?
If the agreement includes custody and visitation provisions, those will be considered by the court in any future custody proceeding, but they do not bind the court. Virginia courts decide custody based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. A well‑drafted parenting plan can provide stability, though either parent may later ask the court to modify it. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can advise on how to craft an agreement that supports your child’s well‑being.
Schedule a Consultation with a Separation Agreement Lawyer
To speak with Mr. Sris or a member of his Of Counsel team about a separation agreement in Alexandria, Virginia, call (888) 437-7747 or use the contact form on this site. Phone consultations are available responsive. Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients by appointment.
For primary legal authorities, see Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) and Alexandria Circuit Court.
Last reviewed: May 2026
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.