Virginia · Circuit Court — Family Division

Virginia family court, without the confusion.

Virginia Circuit Court handles divorce, custody, child support, and protective orders. Virginia also has Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for some family matters.

We walk you through exactly what to fill out, in plain English, and produce the forms ready to sign and file.

Where do you need help?

Coming soon

Divorce / Dissolution of Marriage

Start or respond to a divorce case. Covers petition, financial disclosure, and the complete filing packet.

Coming soon

Child Custody / Parenting Time

Establish custody and parenting time when you were never married or as part of a divorce.

Coming soon

Modify Custody or Parenting Time

Change an existing custody or parenting time order when circumstances have significantly changed.

Coming soon

Child Support

Establish or modify a child support order.

Coming soon

Establish Paternity

Legally establish parentage when the parents were not married.

Coming soon

Protective Order

Get an emergency order to protect yourself or your children from domestic violence or harassment.

Coming soon

Relocation (Moving with Children)

Request court approval to move with your children, or oppose a move.

Coming soon

Enforce a Court Order

Bring the other party back to court when they are violating an existing order.

Coming soon

Name Change

Change your name or your child's name through the court.

Coming soon

Spousal Support / Alimony

Request or respond to a request for spousal support or alimony.

What Virginia requires — before you file

1 6-month residency. You or your spouse must have lived in Virginia for at least 6 months before filing for divorce.

2 1-year separation (with children) OR 6-month separation (no children, property settlement). Virginia requires 1 year of separation for no-fault divorce when minor children are involved, or 6 months if no children and both parties sign a property settlement agreement.

3 Financial disclosure required. Both parties must provide financial information.

Virginia requires a separation period before no-fault divorce — 1 year with children, 6 months without. Virginia uses 'legal custody' and 'physical custody.'

All 14 Virginia Counties

Virginia family law forms are filed in the county or city Circuit Court where you or the defendant lives.

Fairfax

Prince William

Chesterfield

Loudoun

Henrico

Virginia Beach

Arlington

Albemarle

Richmond City

Chesapeake