Uncontested Divorce Lawyer Arlington County, VA
An uncontested divorce in Arlington County, Virginia, allows spouses who agree on all issues to dissolve their marriage without a contested trial. If you and your spouse have reached a written separation agreement and meet Virginia’s residency and separation requirements, you may be eligible for a streamlined divorce process. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, serves clients across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Our Arlington location assists individuals and families throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. For a consultation about your uncontested divorce, reach us at (888) 437-7747.
What Uncontested Divorce Means in Arlington County, Virginia
An uncontested divorce in Virginia is available when both spouses agree on the terms of their separation and have resolved all related matters—such as property division, spousal support, and, if applicable, child custody and support—before filing. Virginia law permits a no-fault divorce on the ground of separation: either after living separate and apart for at least one year, or after six months if there are no minor children of the marriage and the parties have signed a separation agreement (Va. Code § 20‑91(9)). The Arlington County Circuit Court has exclusive original jurisdiction over divorce suits in the county (Va. Code § 20‑96). At least one spouse must be an actual bona fide resident and domiciliary of Virginia for six months before filing (Va. Code § 20‑97).
The separation agreement is the cornerstone of an uncontested divorce. It addresses equitable distribution of marital property under Va. Code § 20‑107.3, which divides assets and debts fairly—though not necessarily equally—based on factors such as the duration of the marriage and each spouse’s contributions. Child custody and support terms, if applicable, are guided by Virginia’s best-interests factors (Va. Code § 20‑124.3) and the child support guidelines (Va. Code § 20‑108.1). Because the agreement must resolve all issues, working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure the document is thorough and enforceable before it is submitted to the court.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Uncontested Divorce Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team help clients navigate each step of an uncontested divorce in Arlington County. They begin by reviewing the couple’s circumstances to confirm eligibility for an uncontested proceeding and to identify the specific grounds available. Once eligibility is established, the team works with the client to prepare or review the separation agreement, ensuring that all property, support, and parenting provisions comply with Virginia law and accurately reflect the parties’ intentions. After the separation period required by statute has been met, the attorney files the complaint for divorce, the separation agreement, and any other required pleadings with the Arlington County Circuit Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, Virginia.
The firm handles the procedural steps—drafting the complaint, filing it with the clerk, arranging service on the other spouse, and preparing for the final hearing. At that hearing, the plaintiff typically presents testimony (and a corroborating witness) to the judge, confirming the separation period and the agreement’s terms. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear at the hearing to present the case and answer any questions the court may have. Throughout the process, the team remains accessible by phone at (888) 437-7747 to address questions and provide updates. Their goal is to move the uncontested divorce forward efficiently while protecting the client’s legal rights.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor and has practiced in Virginia since 1997. He is admitted to the bars of Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a bill that revised Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. His understanding of family law is complemented by the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys—all engaged through Excella—who bring experience across multiple practice areas. Together, the team assists clients in uncontested divorce matters, drawing on a broad foundation of legal knowledge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have represented individuals in a range of family law issues since 1997. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an uncontested divorce in Virginia?
An uncontested divorce is one in which both spouses agree on all issues—property division, spousal support, child custody, and child support—and submit a signed separation agreement to the court. Virginia law allows the divorce to proceed on the no‑fault ground of separation once the required statutory period has been met and the agreement is in place. The process avoids a trial and typically resolves more quickly than a contested case.
What are the requirements for an uncontested divorce in Arlington County?
To obtain an uncontested divorce in Arlington County, at least one spouse must have been a resident and domiciliary of Virginia for six months prior to filing. The couple must have lived separate and apart for either one year, or six months if no minor children are involved and a written separation agreement is signed. The agreement must address all property, support, and custody issues. The divorce complaint is filed in the Arlington County Circuit Court.
How long does an uncontested divorce take in Arlington County, Virginia?
The time from filing to final decree depends on court scheduling, the completeness of the paperwork, and whether the statutory separation period has already run. If the separation period is satisfied before filing, the court can schedule a final hearing and enter the divorce decree as soon as the docket permits. Working with an experienced divorce practitioner can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Do I need a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Arlington County?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Virginia, but experienced legal guidance can help ensure that the separation agreement is properly drafted, all required disclosures are made, and the complaint and supporting documents comply with the Arlington County Circuit Court’s procedures. An attorney can also identify potential issues that may arise after the divorce is final.
How does the process work in Arlington County Circuit Court?
The process begins with the preparation and filing of a complaint for divorce, the signed separation agreement, and a cover sheet with the Circuit Court clerk. The other spouse must be served with the complaint or sign a waiver of service. After the separation period is met, a final hearing is scheduled. At the hearing, the plaintiff and a corroborating witness provide testimony, and the judge reviews the agreement to confirm it is fair and complete before entering the final decree.
What if we have minor children or property to divide?
Uncontested divorces in Virginia can include child custody, visitation, and child support provisions within the separation agreement, as long as both parents agree. The court will review the agreement to ensure it serves the children’s best interests. Property division—including real estate, retirement accounts, and business interests—is addressed through equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20‑107.3. An attorney can prepare or evaluate the agreement to confirm that it accurately reflects the couple’s wishes and complies with Virginia law.
How much does an uncontested divorce cost in Arlington County?
Fees vary depending on the complexity of the case and the extent of negotiation or document preparation required. Court filing fees apply, and costs for service of process, notarization, and any necessary consultations with valuation attorneys (such as for retirement division) may also be incurred. To obtain a more specific discussion of costs, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
What documents are required for an uncontested divorce in Virginia?
A complaint for divorce, a signed separation agreement (also called a property settlement agreement), and a copy of the parties’ marriage certificate are the core documents. Additional forms—such as a cover sheet, a verification affidavit, a waiver of service if applicable, and a final decree—are also needed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team handle the preparation and filing of the complete set of documents.
Related family law pages:
Family law representation in Fairfax County •
Family law representation in Prince William County •
Family law representation in Loudoun County •
Family law representation in Stafford County
Authoritative Virginia divorce resources:
Virginia Code Title 20 – Domestic Relations •
Arlington County Circuit Court •
Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.