Fauquier County Family Law Lawyer – What Are Your Rights?
Family law matters in Fauquier County are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation with a firm-wide record of 4,739+ case results. Spring often sees an increase in family law filings as schedules change.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law covers divorce, child custody, support, and property division. The primary statute for dividing assets is Va. Code § 20-107.3, which outlines equitable distribution. Child custody determinations are guided by the best interests of the child standard under Virginia law.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code (law.lis.virginia.gov). For local court forms and procedures, refer to the Virginia Judiciary website (vacourts.gov).
Fauquier County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Fauquier County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process typically involves filing a complaint, serving the other party, and attending a scheduling conference.
- File the initial pleading (Complaint for Divorce, etc.) with the Clerk’s Office.
- Serve the filed documents on the other party according to Virginia rules.
- Attend the court’s scheduling conference to set deadlines.
- Complete the discovery process, exchanging financial disclosures.
- Participate in settlement negotiations or court-ordered mediation.
- Prepare for and attend a final hearing if settlement is not reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Fauquier County, family law cases can result in orders for divorce, child custody arrangements, child and spousal support, and division of marital property and debts.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Fault or No-Fault | Dissolution of marriage, effective after court order. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Legal and physical custody orders, parenting plans. |
| Child Support | Virginia Guidelines | Monthly support obligation based on income and custody. |
| Spousal Support | Statutory Factors | Temporary or permanent support payments. |
| Equitable Distribution | Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Division of marital property and debts. |
Results may vary. Each case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion, and felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Fauquier County?
The court determines custody based on the best interests of the child. Factors include each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s reasonable preference if of sufficient age and maturity.
What is equitable distribution in Virginia?
Equitable distribution is the court’s process of dividing marital property and debts. It is not necessarily equal. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions, the length of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party.
How long does a divorce take in Fauquier County?
The timeline varies by case complexity and whether it is contested. An uncontested divorce can finalize after the statutory separation period. A contested divorce involving custody or property disputes can take a year or more to resolve through litigation or settlement.
Can I get spousal support in Virginia?
It depends. The court considers factors like the needs of the requesting spouse, the other spouse’s ability to pay, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, and each party’s contributions to the family’s well-being.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Assistance
Our Virginia location serves Fauquier County and surrounding communities like Warrenton, Bealeton, and Remington. We are accessible for residents throughout the area.
24/7 phone consultations – (888) 437-7747 – meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
(888) 437-7747
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist with Fauquier County criminal defense matters. 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.