Family Law Lawyer New Kent County — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
A family law lawyer New Kent County can guide you through divorce, custody, and support matters in New Kent County Circuit Court. Virginia is an equitable distribution state under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which our firm’s founder personally helped amend. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented case results in New Kent County. We provide 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Family legal matters lawyer New Kent County services are essential when facing life changes like divorce or custody disputes. Virginia law provides specific procedures and standards for these cases. Understanding the local court process is a key part of building a strong strategy.
Virginia Family Law Statutes and Definitions
Family law in Virginia is governed by state code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds and Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution of marital property. This statute, which Mr. Sris personally helped amend, requires a fair—but not necessarily equal—division based on multiple factors. Child custody decisions are made under Va. Code § 20-124.3, focusing on the child’s best interests. Child support follows the guidelines in Va. Code § 20-108.2. These laws apply in New Kent County Circuit Court and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
For official statutes, refer to the Virginia Code on Domestic Relations. Court procedures can be found on the New Kent County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Family Cases in New Kent County
New Kent County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court at the same address handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing. A signed property settlement agreement can resolve issues without a trial.
- Schedule a consultation with a family law lawyer New Kent County to review your situation.
- File the initial pleading (Complaint for Divorce, Petition for Custody) with the appropriate court and pay the filing fee.
- Serve the other party with the court papers according to Virginia rules.
- Participate in discovery, which may include financial disclosures and depositions.
- Attend settlement conferences or mediation to try to resolve issues without a trial.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a final hearing or trial before a judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Matters
In New Kent County, family law matters like divorce and custody involve significant personal and financial consequences, not traditional penalties.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes | Financial Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Divorce | No-fault (separation) or Fault | Dissolution of marriage, equitable distribution of assets/debts | Division of property, potential spousal support |
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Legal & physical custody orders, parenting plan | Child support obligations |
| Child Support | Virginia Guideline calculation | Monthly support order, healthcare, childcare costs | Ongoing financial obligation |
| Spousal Support | Based on need and ability to pay (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support order | Monthly payment obligation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Family Law Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to family court attorney New Kent County representation. A key differentiator is that Mr. Sris personally helped amend Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving us deep insight into this complex area of law. We have a documented record of case results for clients in New Kent County.
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
Our team, including Mr. Sris who brings his extensive background as a former prosecutor and his direct experience with Virginia family law legislation, works collaboratively on cases. We focus on understanding the specific details of each family’s situation to develop a clear strategy.
Local Presence and Accessibility
Our Richmond location serves clients with family legal matters in New Kent County. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 60, near the Colonial Downs Racetrack.
Family law lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Available 24/7: Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Family Law in New Kent County
How long does a divorce take in New Kent County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested divorce with a signed agreement may take 2-4 months. A contested divorce often takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business assets can take 12-24 months. The New Kent County Circuit Court sets pendente lite hearings within 21-60 days of a motion for temporary support or custody.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), motion fees, and potentially a Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) or mediation ($100-$300/hour per party). Total costs vary greatly based on whether the case is contested.
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly, not necessarily 50/50, under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is typically excluded from division.
How is child custody decided in New Kent County, Virginia?
Custody is based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases are in J&DR Court; custody within a divorce is in Circuit Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children and a signed agreement) or a 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or a felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law hub page. We also assist with criminal defense in New Kent County and DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.