Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia is an equitable distribution state, not community property. Marital property is divided fairly based on 11 statutory factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for New Kent County
Family law cases in New Kent County are decided under the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91, which establishes grounds for divorce, and Va. Code § 20-107.3, which governs the equitable distribution of marital property. This statute was personally amended by Mr. Sris, providing our firm with unique insight into its application. Child custody is determined under Va. Code § 20-124.3 based on the child’s best interests, and support is calculated using the state guidelines in Va. Code § 20-108.1.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, consult these official government sources:
New Kent County Family Court Process
Family law matters in New Kent County are split between two courts. The New Kent County Circuit Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support cases. The New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Initial consultation and case assessment: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your divorce, custody, or support matter. Bring relevant documents like marriage certificates, financial records, and any existing court orders.
- Filing the complaint or petition: Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary documents with the New Kent County Circuit Court (divorce, equitable distribution) or Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court (standalone custody/support). Pay the filing fee (approximately $86 for divorce).
- Service of process and response period: The other party must be formally served with the court papers. They have 21 days to file an Answer. If they do not respond, you may seek a default judgment.
- Discovery and negotiation phase: Both sides exchange financial information and other evidence. Your attorney will negotiate for a settlement agreement on property division, support, and custody to avoid trial.
- Court hearings and final resolution: Attend any required hearings for temporary orders. If no settlement is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge at the New Kent County Courthouse for a final decision.
Penalties and Legal Standards in New Kent County
In New Kent County, family law matters involve specific legal standards and potential financial consequences, not criminal penalties. Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce (no minor children with a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation (with minor children).
| Offense / Issue | Classification / Standard | Potential Consequences | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce (Uncontested) | No-fault (separation) | Dissolution of marriage | Court fees: ~$86 + service costs |
| Divorce (Contested) | Fault grounds possible | Trial, equitable distribution order | Court costs + attorney fees + possible experienced fees |
| Child Support | Guidelines calculation (Va. Code § 20-108.1) | Monthly payment order | Based on combined gross income & custody schedule |
| Equitable Distribution | 11-factor analysis (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Division of marital property & debts | Varies by asset value; business valuation may be needed |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to family law cases in New Kent County. A key differentiator is that Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team direct insight into the law’s intent and application. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of Virginia family law.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Documented Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 total documented case results across all practice areas in New Kent County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include cases involving divorce, child custody disputes, and support modifications handled in the local courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a family law lawyer near New Kent County, serving the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in New Kent County, Virginia?
Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody: typically set within 21-60 days of motion. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody and mediation.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). New Kent County Circuit Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124) handles all property division. Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in New Kent County, Virginia?
Custody in New Kent County is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. New Kent County J&DR Court handles standalone custody. New Kent County Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at New Kent County Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
Explore more legal information:
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer Hub – Overview of state laws.
- Henrico County Divorce & Family Lawyer – Representation in a neighboring county.
- New Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Help with related legal matters.
- Learn more about Mr. Sris – Attorney profile and background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is updated from court records and statutes as of this date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.