New Kent County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law covers divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and property division. The primary statutes are found in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. For example, Va. Code § 20-91 outlines the grounds for divorce, and Va. Code § 20-124.3 lists the factors for determining the best interests of a child in custody cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
- Va. Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) – The official Virginia statute database.
- New Kent County Circuit Court – The official court website for filing and procedures.
The New Kent County Family Court Process
Family law cases in New Kent County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process typically involves filing a complaint, serving the other party, and attending a series of hearings. The court strongly encourages mediation to resolve disputes outside of trial.
- Consultation and Case Evaluation: Discuss your situation with an attorney to understand your rights and options.
- Filing and Service: Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary legal documents with the court and ensure proper service on the other party.
- Discovery and Financial Disclosure: Both sides exchange information, including financial documents, through a process called discovery.
- Mediation or Settlement Conference: You will likely attend mediation to try to reach an agreement on issues like custody, support, and property.
- Pre-Trial and Trial: If settlement fails, your case will proceed to a final hearing where a judge will make the decisions.
- Post-Judgment Matters: After a final order, you may need to address enforcement or modification of support or custody orders.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In New Kent County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties like jail time, but court orders have binding legal force and financial consequences for non-compliance.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Joint or sole legal/physical custody; detailed visitation schedule. |
| Child Support | Virginia Guideline Calculation | Monthly payment based on income, childcare costs, and health insurance. |
| Spousal Support | Need and Ability to Pay (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support payments; amount and duration vary. |
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Division of marital assets and debts; not necessarily 50/50. |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your New Kent County Family Law Matter?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Managing Attorney Mr. Sris personally worked on amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, giving our team direct insight into this critical area of law. We are committed to providing clear guidance during difficult family transitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in New Kent County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement can finalize in about 30-45 days after filing. A contested divorce with custody or property disputes can take 6-12 months or longer in New Kent County Circuit Court.
How is child custody determined in Virginia?
Virginia courts decide custody based on the child’s best interests. Judges consider factors like each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own reasonable preference if they are mature enough.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody is the right to make major decisions about a child’s health, education, and welfare. Physical custody is where the child lives. Parents can share joint legal custody even if one parent has primary physical custody.
How is child support calculated in Virginia?
Virginia uses official child support guidelines based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, and the custody arrangement. The court can deviate from the guideline amount for specific reasons like a child’s special needs.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is Virginia’s process for dividing marital property and debts during a divorce. ‘Equitable’ means fair, not necessarily equal. The court considers factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s length under Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Our Approach to Family Law
Our goal is to achieve a resolution that protects your interests and, when children are involved, prioritizes their well-being. We prepare every case thoroughly, whether aiming for a negotiated settlement or advocating for you at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Serving New Kent County and Surrounding Areas
We represent clients throughout New Kent County and nearby communities. By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Information
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Our state practice hub.
- Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- New Kent County Divorce Lawyer – Focused divorce representation.
- Learn more about Mr. Sris – Attorney profile.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.