Divorce Attorney in Fairfax

Compassionate Counsel You Can Depend On

If you are going through a divorce, you may experience overwhelming emotions, such as sadness, anger, and fear. These feelings can make decision-making difficult and impact your future in lasting ways.

At Sandground, West, Silek, Raminpour & Landers, PLC, we recognize the unique challenges you may face during divorce. Our divorce attorneys in Fairfax have the legal experience and commitment needed to address the details of your case and focus on reaching a favorable resolution.

Our team serves clients throughout Fairfax County, offering practical guidance on key aspects specific to Virginia family law. We regularly appear before the Fairfax County Circuit Court, guiding clients from filing the initial complaint to addressing complex issues like property division under the Virginia Code. Clients benefit from our knowledge of local procedures, clear communication, and focus on protecting their rights through every stage of the process. Since every divorce is unique, we tailor our approach based on your needs and the particular requirements of Fairfax legal proceedings.

Contact our trusted divorce attorney in Fairfax at (703) 810-3791 to schedule a confidential consultation.

How Our Firm Can Help

When you choose our firm, you receive legal representation tailored to your needs. We provide a range of legal services designed to help you navigate the divorce process with less stress and anxiety.

Our attorneys guide you through the paperwork and procedural steps required by Fairfax courts. We advise clients on Virginia's grounds for divorce, residency requirements, and necessary documentation, so you know what to expect during the legal process. Our familiarity with local judges and court staff enables us to prepare you for hearings and settlement conferences, helping you feel confident and informed throughout your case.

Some of our services include:

• Child custody
• Child support
• Alimony
• Property division
• Marital agreements

We also assist with separation agreements, post-divorce modifications, and enforcement of court orders arising from your divorce case. Our team is available to answer your questions about contested and uncontested divorces, address concerns about spousal support, and clarify your rights and obligations under Virginia law. Whether your divorce involves straightforward issues or complex assets, we focus on achieving solutions that align with your long-term interests.

Why Choose Our Firm?

We offer personalized legal representation, backed by years of experience and a strong skill set. Our team understands the divorce process and helps you navigate each step to strive for the best possible outcome. We take time to learn about you and your goals, and we work with you to develop an action plan tailored to your specific needs.

Clients in Fairfax and throughout Northern Virginia value our strong communication and direct attorney involvement at every stage of representation. We explain each phase of the divorce process, from filing in the Fairfax County Circuit Court to handling negotiation and, when necessary, litigation. Our knowledge of local court procedures and commitment to individualized strategies set us apart, empowering clients with information that helps them make sound decisions during a difficult time.

Understanding the Divorce Process in Fairfax County

Divorces in Fairfax County follow legal requirements set by Virginia law. Anyone seeking a divorce here must meet the state’s residency rule, which requires at least one spouse to have lived in Virginia for a minimum of six months before filing. Couples may pursue either a no-fault divorce based on separation or a fault-based divorce if there are legal grounds, such as adultery, cruelty, or abandonment. The Fairfax County Circuit Court handles most divorce filings, and procedures often include serving divorce papers, exchanging mandatory financial disclosures, and appearing for court hearings if the parties cannot reach an agreement privately.

As the process advances, both parties address issues that include property division, custody, child support, and spousal support. Virginia uses “equitable distribution,” meaning the court divides marital property fairly but not always equally. Our attorneys help you review your options for settlement versus litigation and explain key steps—from drafting an initial complaint to finalizing a court order. With local knowledge of Fairfax’s court procedures and a clear understanding of common case timelines, we help you anticipate what comes next and reduce surprises during a stressful time.

Navigating Custody, Support & Property Division in Virginia

When children are involved in a Virginia divorce, the court focuses on the child’s best interests. Fairfax judges consider factors such as the child’s age, needs, family relationships, and each parent’s role in raising the child. Our attorneys work with you to prepare the necessary documentation for custody and visitation agreements or to present your case to the judge when agreements cannot be reached outside of court. Child support calculations in Fairfax follow state guidelines, which weigh both parents’ incomes, the number of children, and specific expenses like health insurance and daycare.

For property division, Virginia courts distinguish between marital and separate assets. Marital assets include property or income acquired during the marriage, while separate assets often remain with the original owner. Equitable distribution does not always mean a 50/50 split; judges review a full range of financial evidence. Our team explains how state law applies to your situation and guides you in gathering the records you’ll need. We also clarify the factors that can impact spousal support and help you prepare for discussions about ongoing financial obligations. Our client-focused approach means you stay informed and supported from the beginning of your case through post-divorce concerns, such as modifications or enforcement of court orders.

Divorce Timeline & What to Expect in Fairfax

The timeline for divorce in Fairfax County can vary depending on whether your case is contested or uncontested. In uncontested divorces, where both spouses agree on all issues, the process can move quickly—sometimes resolving within a few months of filing. These cases usually involve less paperwork and fewer court appearances. Contested divorces, by contrast, often take longer because the parties disagree on key issues like custody or how to divide assets. These cases may require discovery, mediation, or multiple court hearings, sometimes extending the process to a year or more.

At key points during your divorce, you will need to file documents, meet critical deadlines, and appear in court as scheduled by the Fairfax County Circuit Court. Our attorneys keep you updated about next steps, timelines, and local scheduling practices so you know exactly where things stand. Anticipating bottlenecks and responding to court requirements promptly helps the process move as efficiently as circumstances allow. Knowing what to expect can reduce stress so you can focus on preparing for your next chapter.