Divorce After a Short Marriage in Virginia: 2026 Complete Legal Guide

At a Glance

Residency requirement:

Under Virginia Code § 20-97, at least one spouse must have been an actual bona fide resident and domiciliary of Virginia for at least six months immediately before filing the divorce suit. The other spouse does not need to be a Virginia resident. Military members stationed in Virginia for six months are presumed to meet this requirement.

Filing fee:

$80–$100

Waiting period:

Virginia uses statutory child support guidelines under Virginia Code § 20-108.2 to calculate child support based on the parents' combined gross monthly income. As of July 1, 2025, the guidelines cover combined gross monthly incomes up to $42,500. The guidelines consider the number of children, health care costs, work-related childcare costs, and each parent's share of combined income. There is a rebuttable presumption that the guideline amount is correct.

As of March 2026. Reviewed every 3 months. Verify with your local clerk's office.