A contested divorce in Lexington involves disputes over property, custody, or support under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington. A Contested Divorce Lawyer Lexington provides trial representation and guidance through the Lexington Circuit Court process.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. A Contested Divorce Lawyer Lexington understands how these factors apply in Lexington Circuit Court. The contested divorce process lawyer Lexington clients rely on must be prepared for litigation when spouses cannot agree on key issues.
For contested divorces specifically, Va. Code § 20-91 establishes the grounds for divorce, including no-fault after a 6-month or 1-year separation and fault grounds such as adultery or cruelty. A divorce trial representation lawyer Lexington must be ready to prove these grounds at trial if the other party contests them.
Review the official statutes: Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution) and Lexington General District Court website.
- File a complaint for divorce at Lexington Circuit Court (2 South Main Street).
- Serve the other party with the complaint and summons.
- Attend the pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody (21-60 days).
- Complete discovery, including financial affidavits and experienced valuations.
- Participate in mediation (available but not mandatory in Virginia).
- Proceed to trial if no settlement is reached.
In Lexington, a contested divorce carries no criminal penalty but involves significant financial and custody stakes. The court divides property under Va. Code § 20-107.3.
| Issue | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contested Divorce | Civil Matter | None | Filing fee ~$86 | None | Guardian ad Litem: $500-$2,500+; Mediation: $100-$300/hour |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs property division in every Virginia divorce. This achievement provides a unique advantage for clients facing contested divorces in Lexington.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, also handles complex contested divorce matters in Lexington. His personal amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3 demonstrates his deep understanding of Virginia family law.
In Lexington, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street), accessible via I-81 and I-64. A Contested Divorce Lawyer Lexington near Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. Serving Lexington and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
How long does a contested divorce take in Lexington, Virginia?
It depends. A contested divorce in Lexington typically takes 9-18 months from filing to final decree. Complex cases involving business valuation or retirement assets can take 12-24 months. The pendente lite hearing for temporary orders is usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a contested divorce cost in Lexington, Virginia?
It depends. The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86, plus sheriff service of process at $12 or private process server at $50-$100. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300/hour per party).
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 a contested divorce in Lexington?
Custody 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. Lexington J&DR Court handles standalone custody matters.
What are the grounds for a contested 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 Lexington 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.