Augusta County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Augusta County family law matters like divorce, custody, and support are governed by Virginia statutes, including Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce) and Va. Code § 20-124.2 (child custody best interests). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in these sensitive cases. Spring often sees an increase in family law filings as schedules change.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91, which establishes the grounds for divorce, and Va. Code § 20-107.3, which governs the equitable distribution of marital property. The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, bringing direct insight to property division cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Augusta County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family laws, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations). For local court procedures and forms, refer to the Augusta County Circuit Court website.
Augusta County Family Court Process
Family law cases in Augusta County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process involves filing pleadings, discovery, and often court-ordered mediation.
- File initial pleadings (Complaint) with the Circuit Court Clerk.
- Serve the other party with the legal documents.
- Attend preliminary hearings to set a case schedule.
- Complete financial discovery and disclosure.
- Participate in settlement conferences or mediation.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a judge if no agreement is reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Augusta County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but determine critical rights like custody, support, and property division. Filing fees vary by case type.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome | Key Statute |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child | Joint or sole legal/physical custody | Va. Code § 20-124.2 |
| Child Support | State Guidelines | Monthly payment based on income & time-sharing | Va. Code § 20-108.2 |
| Spousal Support | Statutory Factors | Temporary or permanent support award | Va. Code § 20-107.1 |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution | Division of marital assets & debts | Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
| Divorce | Fault or No-Fault Grounds | Dissolution of marriage | Va. Code § 20-91 |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of Virginia law. Global advocacy. Local precision.
Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a documented record in family law matters. Our attorneys work to achieve resolutions that protect our clients’ interests.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Assistance
Our Staunton location serves the Augusta County area. We are accessible to residents in Staunton, Waynesboro, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
123 Main St
Staunton, VA 24401
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in Augusta County, VA?
An uncontested divorce in Augusta County typically takes 2-3 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce can take 9-12 months or longer, depending on the issues in dispute and the court’s schedule.
What factors determine child custody in Virginia?
Virginia courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests. Key factors include each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own reasonable preferences if they are old enough.
How is spousal support calculated in Virginia?
Virginia courts consider several factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse’s contributions to the family’s well-being.
Can I get a divorce in Virginia if my spouse doesn’t agree?
Yes. Virginia allows for no-fault divorce based on living separate and apart for one year (or six months with no minor children and a separation agreement). You can proceed with a contested divorce if your spouse disagrees on terms.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3 is the court’s process of dividing marital property. ‘Equitable’ means fair, not necessarily equal. The court classifies property as marital or separate and divides marital assets and debts based on statutory factors.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also assist with Augusta County criminal defense matters. For family law help in a neighboring area, consider our Rockingham County family law lawyer services. Learn more about Attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.