Annulment in Virginia is governed by Va. Code § 20-89.1, which allows a court to declare a marriage void for reasons such as fraud, duress, or bigamy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, providing experienced representation for annulment cases throughout Virginia.
Annulment Lawyer in Virginia
Under Virginia law, an annulment is a legal proceeding that declares a marriage void from its beginning, as if it never existed. Va. Code § 20-89.1 outlines the grounds for annulment, including fraud, duress, mental incapacity, bigamy, and incest. Unlike divorce, which ends a valid marriage, annulment treats the marriage as legally invalid from the start. A marriage annulment petition lawyer Virginia can help you handle this complex area of family law. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Circuit Courts | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For more information, consult the official Virginia statutes:
In Virginia Circuit Courts, annulment cases require clear and convincing evidence of the grounds alleged. We have observed that courts scrutinize claims of fraud particularly closely, often demanding proof of intentional deception at the time of marriage.
- Identify the specific ground for annulment under Va. Code § 20-89.1.
- Gather evidence supporting the claim, such as documents or witness testimony.
- File a marriage annulment petition with the appropriate Virginia Circuit Court.
- Serve the petition on the other spouse according to Virginia rules of civil procedure.
- Attend a hearing where both parties can present evidence.
- Obtain a final decree of annulment if the court finds grounds exist.
In Virginia, annulment does not carry criminal penalties, but the legal consequences affect property rights, spousal support, and the legitimacy of children. The table below outlines key considerations.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud in Marriage | Civil Matter | None | None | None | Marriage declared void; potential loss of spousal rights |
| Bigamy | Class 4 Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Marriage void; criminal prosecution possible |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the statute that governs equitable distribution in every Virginia divorce.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate of 93%+. In Virginia family law cases, the firm has achieved numerous favorable outcomes, including dismissals and reductions. Results may vary.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 1.5 miles from the Fairfax County Circuit Court, with access via I-66 and Route 50. As an Annulment Lawyer Virginia, we serve the communities of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032 | (703) 636-5417 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Annulment in Virginia
How long does a divorce take in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested divorces in Virginia typically resolve in 2-6 months after filing at Fairfax County Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court (custody/support/protective orders) and Fairfax County Circuit Court (divorce/equitable distribution), depending on mandatory separation periods and court calendar. Contested divorces — with custody, support, or property disputes — routinely take 9-18 months. Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution… High-asset or international-element cases can extend longer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles complex and high-net-worth matters — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
How much does a divorce cost in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300/hour). Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). Cases filed at Fairfax County General District Court.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Fairfax County Circuit Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) handles all property division. Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Custody in Fairfax County is based on the experienced interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Fairfax County J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases. 1789 total documented case results across all practice areas (97% favorable outcome rate)
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Fairfax County Circuit Court. Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against annulment charges?
Defense strategies for annulment in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 20-89.1 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing annulment charges in Virginia?
If facing annulment charges in Virginia, contact a family law attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
For more information, contact an Annulment Lawyer Virginia today. A marriage annulment petition lawyer Virginia can guide you through the process. If you have a void marriage lawyer Virginia can help you understand your options.
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Last updated: 2026-04-29