Richmond Desertion Divorce Lawyer — What Are Your Legal Options?
If your spouse has left without justification, a Desertion Divorce Lawyer Virginia can help you file under Va. Code § 20-91. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide. We serve clients at Richmond City Circuit Court. Consultation by appointment.
What Is Desertion as a Ground for Divorce in Virginia?
Under Virginia law, desertion is a fault-based ground for divorce. It requires proof that your spouse willfully abandoned you without your consent and with the intent to permanently end the marriage. The abandonment must last for a continuous period of at least one year before you can file for divorce on this ground. This is distinct from no-fault divorce, which requires a separation period of six months or one year depending on whether minor children are involved. A Desertion Divorce Lawyer Virginia can evaluate your situation to determine if desertion applies.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond City Circuit Court | Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: Filing for Desertion Divorce in Richmond
In Richmond City Circuit Court, proving desertion requires clear and convincing evidence of willful abandonment.
- Gather evidence of the abandonment, such as text messages, emails, or witness statements.
- Document the date your spouse left the marital home.
- File a complaint for divorce at the Richmond City Circuit Court.
- Serve your spouse with the divorce papers.
- Attend the final hearing to present your case to the judge.
In Richmond, a desertion-based divorce does not carry criminal penalties but affects property division and spousal support.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desertion (Divorce Ground) | Fault-Based Ground | None | None | None | May affect equitable distribution and spousal support |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, brings extensive experience in family law matters including desertion divorce.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond Location
Our Richmond location is accessible from the Richmond City Circuit Court via I-64 and I-95. We serve clients throughout Richmond and surrounding areas.
Looking for a Desertion Divorce Lawyer Virginia near Richmond? We are here to help.
Neighborhoods served: Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Midlothian, Chester, Mechanicsville, Ashland, Powhatan, Goochland, Hopewell, Colonial Heights, Petersburg.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Desertion Divorce in Virginia
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows no-fault divorce after 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, desertion (1 year), and felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment).
How long does a desertion divorce take in Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested desertion divorce can take 2-4 months from filing. A contested case may take 9-18 months depending on court schedules and disputes over property or support.
Do I need to prove desertion in court?
Yes. You must provide clear and convincing evidence that your spouse willfully abandoned you without consent and with intent to end the marriage for at least one year.
Can I get spousal support in a desertion divorce?
It depends. Spousal support is determined by 13 statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1. Desertion may affect the amount or duration of support awarded.
What is the difference between desertion and separation?
Desertion is a fault ground requiring willful abandonment without consent. Separation is a no-fault ground requiring living apart for a set period with mutual agreement or without objection.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.