Divorce Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

You and your spouse have been drifting apart for months. Maybe you are stationed at Naval Air Station Oceana, or you work in Town Center, and the strain of military life or long hours has taken its toll. One of you moved out of the Sandbridge house while the other stayed with the children. Now the question is not if the marriage will end, but how to navigate the divorce process fairly — custody, support, and the house you bought together near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. You need clear guidance, not a sales pitch. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.

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Strategy Options in a Virginia Beach Divorce

Every divorce is different, but Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel help clients evaluate which path fits their circumstances. For spouses who can agree on all issues — property division, spousal support, child custody, and parenting time — an uncontested divorce may be the most direct route. Virginia law permits a no‑fault divorce after a six‑month separation if the couple has no minor children and has signed a separation agreement, or after one year of separation with minor children. When a signed property settlement agreement resolves everything, the Virginia Beach Circuit Court can finalize the divorce without trial.

When agreement is not possible — because one spouse contests the grounds, disputes asset valuation, or cannot agree on a parenting plan — a contested divorce unfolds in stages. The case begins with a Complaint filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court, which has exclusive jurisdiction over divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support. Temporary orders for custody, child support, and use of the family home may be sought pendente lite while the case is pending. Discovery, settlement conferences, and, if necessary, trial follow. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel concentrate on preparing each case thoroughly so that clients understand their options at each step.

What to Expect When You Work with Our Firm

From your first consultation, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel focus on the practical realities of your situation. They will ask about the length of the marriage, the property you and your spouse acquired, your incomes, and the well‑being of your children. Virginia Beach courts consider the trusted‑interests factors in Va. Code § 20‑124.3 when deciding custody and parenting time. Property is divided under the equitable‑distribution framework of Va. Code § 20‑107.3, which means the court strives for a fair, though not necessarily equal, division of marital assets and debts.

The firm handles the drafting and negotiation of property settlement agreements, preparation of pleadings, and, when litigation is necessary, representation at trial. If a spouse is in the military, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act may affect timing and service; the firm is experienced in navigating those issues. Throughout the matter, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel keep clients informed and avoid surprises. For a detailed statutory analysis, see our comprehensive guide at srislawyer.com.

How a Divorce Can Affect Your Finances and Family Life

Divorce reshapes more than your marital status. In Virginia Beach, the court divides retirement accounts, investment portfolios, business interests, and real estate. A spouse who has not worked outside the home may be awarded spousal support under the factors listed in Va. Code § 20‑107.1. Child support is calculated according to Virginia’s statutory guidelines. Decisions about custody and visitation establish the pattern for years to come. Because the stakes are high, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each case with careful preparation and attention to the client’s long‑term well‑being. Results may vary.

Attorneys Who Understand Virginia Beach Courts

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), the legislation that revised the equitable‑distribution statute. His Of Counsel bring varied backgrounds — former prosecutors, a former Virginia State Trooper, and attorneys with decades of litigation experience — and together they have over 120 years of combined legal experience, backed by 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.

Verify admissions: Virginia State Bar · Maryland Judiciary · DC Bar · NJ Courts · NY OCA

Last reviewed: June 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a lawyer for a Virginia Beach divorce?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but handling a divorce without counsel can be risky when property, support, or custody are at stake. Even in an uncontested matter, the paperwork must be correct, and a signed separation agreement should fully protect your rights. A contested divorce involves procedural rules that are difficult to navigate alone. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can evaluate your situation and help you decide the trusted way forward.

How does the Virginia Beach Circuit Court handle property division?

Virginia is an equitable‑distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, after the court considers eleven statutory factors. Separate property — assets acquired before the marriage or received by gift or inheritance — remains with the owning spouse. The Virginia Beach Circuit Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10B, has exclusive jurisdiction over divorce and property division. The process may involve business valuations, forensic accounting, and appraisal of retirement accounts.

What if my spouse and I agree on everything?

If you and your spouse can reach a comprehensive written agreement addressing all issues — property, support, custody, and parenting time — an uncontested divorce is possible. The agreement is filed with the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, and after meeting the separation period required by law, the court can enter a final decree. Having an experienced attorney review or draft the agreement helps ensure it is enforceable and protects your interests over the long term.

Can a fault ground help my case?

Virginia still allows fault‑based divorces, including adultery, cruelty, willful desertion, and felony conviction with imprisonment of more than one year. A fault ground may affect spousal support and property distribution. However, proving fault can be emotionally draining and expensive. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can explain the pros and cons of pursuing a fault ground in your specific situation.

How is child custody decided in Virginia Beach?

Custody and visitation are determined by the best interests of the child, guided by the factors in Va. Code § 20‑124.3. The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody cases, while custody issues within a divorce are decided by the Circuit Court. Judges consider each parent’s relationship with the child, the child’s needs, and any history of family abuse. A Guardian ad litem may be appointed to represent the child’s interests.

What about military divorce issues?

Military families in Virginia Beach, including those connected to Naval Air Station Oceana, face unique divorce challenges involving deployment, pension division, and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act. The SCRA can delay proceedings if the service member is on active duty. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand the interplay between Virginia law and federal military statutes and can help service members and their spouses navigate the process.

For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Primary sources:
Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) ·
Virginia Judicial System

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.