Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
A Fairfax County divorce or custody case requires handling Virginia’s equitable distribution laws under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 4,739 firm-wide results, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate, providing strong representation in the Fairfax County Circuit Court. Spring break often sees an increase in custody disputes as parents plan summer travel schedules.
Our firm, founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your family law matter.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Family law in Virginia, including divorce, child custody, support, and property division, is governed by Title 20 of the Virginia Code. The foundational statute for dividing marital property is Va. Code § 20-107.3, which establishes the principles of equitable distribution—meaning a fair, but not necessarily equal, division based on numerous statutory factors.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For local court forms and procedures, refer to the Fairfax County Circuit Court website.
handling the Fairfax County Circuit Court
Family law cases in Fairfax County are heard in the Circuit Court, known for its specific local rules and high volume. Understanding the court’s expectations for financial disclosures and parenting plans is critical for a smooth process.
- File Your Complaint: Initiate your case by filing the appropriate complaint (e.g., for divorce) with the Fairfax County Circuit Court Clerk’s Office and paying the required filing fee.
- Serve the Other Party: Ensure your spouse is properly served with the legal papers according to Virginia court rules.
- Exchange Financial Disclosures: Both parties must complete detailed financial statements, which are foundational for support and property division negotiations.
- Attend Settlement Conferences: The court often requires parties to attempt settlement through conferences or mediation before a trial date is set.
- Prepare for Trial: If settlement is not reached, your case will proceed to a hearing or trial before a Fairfax County Circuit Court judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Fairfax County, family law matters do not carry criminal penalties like incarceration, but they determine critical issues such as asset division, spousal support, and child custody.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair, court-ordered division of marital assets and debts. |
| Spousal Support | Based on need and ability to pay (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support orders. |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Legal and physical custody arrangements, parenting plans. |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines (Va. Code § 20-108.2) | Monthly support based on parental income and custody share. |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Our Firm’s Family Law Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring deep, practical knowledge to complex family law disputes. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to serving clients in Fairfax County and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a divorce in Fairfax County?
It depends on whether the divorce is contested. An uncontested divorce can finalize in a few months once the waiting period is met. A contested divorce involving property or custody disputes can take a year or more in Fairfax County Circuit Court, depending on court schedules and case complexity.
How is child custody determined in Virginia?
Virginia courts decide custody based on the “best interests of the child” standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Judges consider factors like each parent’s relationship with the child, ability to cooperate, and the child’s needs. There is no presumption favoring either parent.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3 is the court’s process of classifying property as marital or separate and then dividing marital property fairly. “Equitable” means fair, not necessarily equal, based on factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration.
Can I get spousal support in Virginia?
Yes, if one spouse has a need for support and the other has the ability to pay. Va. Code § 20-107.1 lists factors the court considers, including the standard of living during the marriage, each party’s earning capacity, and the length of the marriage. Support can be temporary or permanent.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce?
While you can file without a lawyer, having an attorney review your settlement agreement is advisable. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected, the agreement complies with Virginia law, and all financial disclosures are complete, preventing future legal problems.
Family Law Help in Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location is a short drive from the Fairfax County Circuit Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve as your family law lawyer near Fairfax County and surrounding communities like Vienna, Reston, and Annandale. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings at our location are by appointment only.
[Fairfax Office Street Address]
Fairfax, VA
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
More Legal Information
For an overview of Virginia family law, see our Virginia Family Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, our Arlington family law lawyer can also assist. For related legal needs in Fairfax County, consider our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer services. Learn more about Attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.