Family Court in Fairfax, Virginia

Fairfax is an independent city in Virginia that runs its own court. How and where to file family court papers for Fairfax: the clerk of court, e-filing, filing fees, and self-help for custody, child support, and divorce.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I file family court papers if I live in Fairfax, Virginia?

Fairfax is an independent city in Virginia, which means it runs its own court rather than sitting inside a county. Family court matters for Fairfax residents (custody, child support, divorce, and parenting plans) are filed with the Fairfax court clerk. Use the Virginia statewide resources on this page to reach the right clerk and forms. FamilyCourtHelp.com is a self-help resource and not a law firm.

Can I e-file my Fairfax family court case online?

Virginia uses VJEFS for electronic court filings. Whether self-represented filers in Fairfax can e-file depends on the court and case type, so confirm with the clerk before you submit. Where e-filing is not open to you, the clerk will accept paper filings in person or by mail.

How much does it cost to file for divorce or custody in Fairfax?

Divorce filing fee: ~$86-$100. The exact amount is set by the clerk and changes over time, so verify the current schedule before filing. If you cannot afford the fee, Virginia courts let you ask for a fee waiver based on income.

Is there free self-help for self-represented parents near Fairfax?

Yes. Virginia maintains a statewide self-help resource for people without a lawyer, and many clerks run a local self-help center too. Use those official resources for forms and procedure, and use FamilyCourtHelp.com to organize your case, draft documents, and prepare. This page is educational and not legal advice.

Is Fairfax part of a county?

No. Fairfax is one of Virginia's independent cities, so it is not part of any county and handles its own court matters. File family cases with the Fairfax court rather than a county clerk.