In Manassas, Virginia, family law matters such as divorce and custody are governed by Va. Code § 20-91 and § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended the equitable distribution statute. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia family law defines divorce grounds, child custody, and property division. Under Va. Code § 20-91, no-fault divorce requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion for one year, and felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more. Equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3 divides marital property fairly but not necessarily equally. Mr. Sris personally amended this statute. Founded in 1997, the firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience.
Family law in Virginia covers divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division. The primary statute for divorce grounds is Va. Code § 20-91. For equitable distribution, Va. Code § 20-107.3 applies — personally amended by Mr. Sris. Custody decisions follow the best interests of the child standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
For official Virginia family law statutes, visit Va. Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Manassas court information, see Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Manassas Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing. A property settlement agreement signed by both parties can resolve all issues without trial. Mediation is available but not mandatory in Virginia. Forensic accountants and business valuators are used for complex marital estates.
- File a complaint for divorce at Manassas Circuit Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230).
- Serve the other party with the complaint and summons.
- File a pendente lite motion for temporary support or custody if needed.
- Attend mediation or negotiate a property settlement agreement.
- Present the agreement or proceed to trial for contested issues.
- Obtain the final divorce decree from the court.
In Manassas, Virginia family law matters carry no criminal penalties but involve financial and custodial consequences determined by the court under statutory guidelines.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Timeframe | Costs | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault, 6-month separation | 2-4 months | $86 filing fee | Property settlement agreement required |
| Contested Divorce | No-fault or fault grounds | 9-18 months | $86 + attorney fees | Trial, discovery, experienced witnesses |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child | Varies | GAL: $500-$2,500+ | Parenting plan, visitation schedule |
| Child Support | Virginia guidelines | Ongoing | Based on income | Enforcement, modification possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute — a unique credential in Virginia family law. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris, firm founder and former prosecutor, also handles complex family law cases. He personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 and brings over 25 years of experience.
SRIS actively practices in Manassas — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is approximately 15 miles from Manassas Circuit Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. Family law lawyer near Manassas — serving Manassas and surrounding areas. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
How long does a divorce take in Manassas, Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Contested divorce: 9-18 months. Complex equitable distribution: 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in Manassas, Virginia?
It depends. Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86. Sheriff service of process: approximately $12. Private process server: $50-$100. Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+. Mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Attorney fees vary based on complexity.
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). Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Manassas, Virginia?
Custody in Manassas is based on the best 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. Manassas J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Manassas Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
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 Manassas Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Virginia Family Law Lawyer | Fairfax Family Law Lawyer | Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer