Divorce Lawyer in Richmond, VA — Your Complete 2025 Guide

Finding the right divorce lawyer in Richmond, Virginia can be a critical step in protecting your finances, your parenting rights, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re preparing for an uncontested divorce or dealing with a complex or high-conflict situation, this guide explains everything you need to know about divorce in Richmond — including costs, court details, residency requirements, and affordable alternatives for couples who agree on the terms.

Do You Need a Divorce Lawyer in Richmond?

You may need a Richmond divorce lawyer if your case involves:

• Custody, visitation, or decision-making disputes

• High-conflict communication or unwillingness to cooperate

• Family businesses, real estate, or substantial financial assets

• Disagreements over alimony (spousal support)

• Domestic violence or protective orders

• Hidden assets, hidden income, or complex financial issues

• Upcoming hearings, mediation, or trial

However, you may NOT need a lawyer if your divorce is uncontested, meaning both spouses agree on:

• Parenting time and custody

• Child support and alimony

• Division of property and debts

• Division of retirement, pensions, and investments

• Who keeps the marital home

In these cases, Divorce.com can prepare or file your Richmond divorce documents for far less than hiring a traditional law firm.

Where to File for Divorce in Richmond, VA

Divorces in Richmond are handled by the Circuit Court, depending on your exact residence in the metropolitan area.

Primary Filing Location (City of Richmond)

Richmond City Circuit Court
John Marshall Courts Building
400 N 9th Street
Richmond, VA 23219
(804) 646-6505

If You Live in the Surrounding Counties:

Henrico County Circuit Court
4301 E Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228

Chesterfield County Circuit Court
9500 Courthouse Road
Chesterfield, VA 23832

All three courts handle:

• Divorce & legal separation

• Custody and parenting arrangements

• Child & spousal support

• Property distribution (equitable distribution)

• Domestic violence protective orders

• Hearings, mediation, and trials

Virginia does not have statewide e-filing for self-represented parties, so most Richmond-area divorces are filed in person.

Virginia Residency Requirements for Divorce

To file for divorce in Richmond:

• One spouse must have lived in Virginia for at least 6 months

• Military personnel stationed in Virginia usually qualify

Virginia allows both no-fault and fault-based divorce grounds.
Most couples choose no-fault (living separate and apart).

How Divorce Works in Richmond, VA

Here’s how the divorce process typically works in the Richmond region:

1. File a Complaint for Divorce

This includes details about grounds, children, and assets.

2. Serve Your Spouse

Service must be completed by private process server, sheriff, or acceptance of service.

3. Waiting Period Requirements

Virginia requires:

• 6 months of separation (if no children), OR

• 12 months of separation (if minor children)

4. Mandatory Disclosures

While Virginia does not have mandatory disclosures like some states, courts often require:

• Income verification

• Property and debt information

• Retirement and pension statements

5. Parenting Requirements (If Children Are Involved)

Courts require:

• Parenting class

• Custody/visitation plan

• Possible mediation

6. Negotiation, Mediation, or Litigation

Uncontested cases move quickly.
Contested cases may require:

• Temporary hearings

• Settlement conferences

• Discovery

• Depositions

• Trial

7. Final Decree of Divorce

A judge reviews the settlement agreement or trial outcome and signs the Final Decree.

How Much Does a Divorce Lawyer Cost in Richmond, VA?

Attorney fees in Richmond are generally moderate compared to Northern Virginia, but costs vary widely.

Typical costs:

• Hourly rate: $250–$400

• Uncontested divorce with a lawyer: $2,000–$4,500

• Contested divorce: $8,000–$20,000+

• High-conflict or high-asset cases: $25,000–$60,000+

Cases involving custody or complex asset division typically cost the most.

Local Divorce Lawyers in Richmond, VA

Here are reputable Richmond divorce attorneys from your directory:

1. Barnes & Diehl, P.C.

https://www.barnesfamilylaw.com

2. Winslow & McCurry, PLLC

https://www.wmmlegal.com

3. The Stout Law Firm, PLLC

https://www.thestoutlawfirm.com

These firms handle high-conflict custody disputes, complex financial cases, mediation, and litigation.

More Affordable Alternatives to Hiring a Lawyer

If your divorce is uncontested, you can save thousands by skipping traditional attorney representation.

Divorce.com offers three flat-fee services:

Paperwork Only — $499

We prepare all Virginia-specific divorce forms.

We File for You — $999

We prepare and file your Richmond Circuit Court documents.

Fully Guided Divorce — $1999

A 1:1 specialist manages your entire divorce from start to finish.

These options are ideal for couples who want a streamlined, cost-effective approach.

When You Should Choose a Lawyer Instead

Hire a Richmond divorce attorney if:

• You expect a custody battle

• Your spouse refuses to cooperate

• There is domestic violence or safety concerns

• You or your spouse own a business

• High-value property or investments are involved

• You suspect hidden assets

• The case is likely to require hearings or trial

Why Divorce.com Is a Smart Choice for Richmond Couples

• Virginia-specific divorce forms

• Transparent flat-fee pricing

• Optional filing services

• Experienced divorce specialists

• Faster and more affordable than traditional family law firms

• Perfect for uncontested or low-conflict divorces

Divorce.com helps Richmond families move through divorce with clarity and confidence.

Start Your Richmond Divorce Today

Whether you choose to hire an attorney or use an online divorce service, starting the process is the most important step. Divorce.com provides a fast, affordable, and stress-free way for Richmond couples to complete their divorce.