A felony conviction in Virginia is a fault ground for divorce under Va. Code § 20-91, allowing the innocent spouse to file immediately without a waiting period. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas, Virginia, handling complex family law matters involving felony convictions. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Felony Conviction Divorce Lawyer Manassas, Virginia
Under Virginia law, a felony conviction is one of the fault-based grounds for divorce. Va. Code § 20-91(3) provides that a divorce may be granted if a spouse has been convicted of a felony and has been incarcerated for at least one year. This ground allows the innocent spouse to file for divorce immediately, bypassing the mandatory separation periods required for no-fault divorces. The conviction must be for a felony under Virginia law or an equivalent offense in another jurisdiction. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 20-91 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For court procedures in Manassas, visit Manassas General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
In Manassas Circuit Court, prosecutors and judges are familiar with felony conviction divorce cases. We have observed that the court requires certified copies of the conviction and incarceration records to establish the ground.
The court strictly enforces the one-year incarceration requirement under Va. Code § 20-91(3).
We recommend gathering all sentencing orders and prison records before filing.
- Obtain certified copies of the felony conviction and incarceration records.
- File a complaint for divorce at Manassas Circuit Court.
- Serve the incarcerated spouse through the correctional facility.
- Attend a hearing to prove the conviction and incarceration.
- Request a final decree of divorce.
In Manassas, Virginia, a felony conviction divorce under Va. Code § 20-91(3) carries specific legal consequences for the convicted spouse, including potential loss of marital rights and property.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felony Conviction (Divorce Ground) | Fault Ground | 1+ year imprisonment required | N/A | N/A | Immediate divorce filing; potential loss of spousal support; impact on equitable distribution |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the statute that governs equitable distribution in every Virginia divorce. This unique credential sets SRIS apart from any other family law firm in Virginia.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas, Virginia. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 15 miles from Manassas Circuit Court, with access via I-66 and Route 28. Serving the communities of Manassas and Sudley area. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Conviction Divorce in Manassas
How long does a divorce take in Manassas (City), Virginia?
Uncontested divorces in Virginia typically resolve in 2-6 months after filing at Manassas (City) Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court (custody/support/protective orders) and Manassas (City) Circuit Court (divorce/equitable distribution), depending on mandatory separation periods and court calendar. Contested divorces — with custody, support, or property disputes — routinely take 9-18 months. Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution… High-asset or international-element cases can extend longer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles complex and high-net-worth matters — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
How much does a divorce cost in Manassas, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300/hour). Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). Cases filed at Manassas General District Court.
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). Manassas Circuit Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110) handles all property division. Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in Manassas, Virginia?
Custody in Manassas is based on the experienced 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. Manassas J&DR Court handles standalone custody. Manassas Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes
What are the grounds for 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 Manassas Circuit Court. Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against felony conviction divorce charges?
Defense strategies for felony conviction divorce in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing felony conviction divorce charges in Virginia?
If facing felony conviction divorce charges in Virginia, contact a family law attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
What are the penalties for felony conviction divorce in Virginia?
Penalties for felony conviction divorce in Virginia depend on the specific charges, prior record, and circumstances. Under Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), consequences may include fines, jail time, probation, or other sanctions. Consult a Virginia family law attorney for case-specific guidance.
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Last verified: April 2026