Visitation Modification Lawyer Virginia Beach — How to Change Your Parenting Time
If you need to change a visitation schedule in Virginia Beach, you must prove a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare under Va. Code § 20-108. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for parents seeking to modify parenting time.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Changing Visitation Schedules
Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 20-108, governs petitions to modify custody and visitation orders. The court will not modify an existing order unless you prove a material change in circumstances has occurred since the last order and that the proposed change is in the child’s best interests. This legal standard is designed to provide stability for children. A visitation modification lawyer Virginia Beach can help you build the necessary evidence.
The statute outlines the factors the court must consider, which align with the “best interests of the child” standard in Va. Code § 20-124.3. These factors include the child’s age and needs, the parent-child relationship, and each parent’s ability to cooperate. Understanding this legal framework is the first step in seeking a change to your parenting time.
- Consult with a visitation modification lawyer Virginia Beach to review your current order and goals.
- Gather evidence documenting the material change in circumstances (e.g., relocation, job change, child’s needs).
- Your attorney will draft and file a Petition to Modify Visitation with the Virginia Beach J&DR Court.
- Attend mediation, if ordered, to attempt to reach an agreement with the other parent.
- Prepare for and attend a court hearing where you will present evidence to the judge.
- Obtain the court’s new order outlining the modified visitation schedule.
External Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 20-108 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For court forms and local procedures, visit the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court website.
The Process for Modifying Parenting Time in Virginia Beach
Successfully changing a visitation schedule requires a strategic approach. The process begins with identifying a qualifying material change. Common examples include a parent’s relocation, a significant change in the parent’s work schedule, a change in the child’s educational or medical needs, or evidence that the current schedule is harming the child. A change visitation schedule lawyer Virginia Beach can assess whether your situation meets the legal threshold.
Once a valid change is identified, your attorney will file a petition. The other parent has the right to respond. The court often requires parents to attend mediation to try to reach an agreement before a hearing. If no agreement is reached, a judge will hear evidence from both sides and make a decision based on the child’s best interests.
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
Case Results and Firm 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 every case. In Virginia Beach, we have documented case results across all practice areas. Mr. Sris personally played a key role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep commitment to Virginia family law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For complex custody and visitation matters, Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, often provides strategic oversight. His background as a former prosecutor and his direct experience with Virginia family law statutes provide a significant advantage in building strong legal arguments for modification.
Contact Our Virginia Beach Visitation Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases in Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways. If you are searching for a modify parenting time lawyer Virginia Beach near the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or Town Center, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Beach Visitation Modification FAQs
What is required to change a visitation order in Virginia Beach?
You must prove a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare since the last order and that the change you seek is in the child’s best interests.
How long does a visitation modification take in Virginia Beach?
It depends. If both parents agree, it can be relatively quick after filing. If contested, the process from filing to a court hearing can take several months, depending on the court’s docket.
Can I modify visitation if the other parent moves away?
Yes. A parent’s relocation is often considered a material change in circumstances that may justify modifying the visitation schedule and terms.
Do I need a lawyer to modify parenting time?
While not legally required, it is highly recommended. A change visitation schedule lawyer Virginia Beach knows the evidence standards and court procedures, greatly improving your chance of success.
What if the other parent violates the visitation order?
Repeated violations can constitute a material change. You can file to modify the order or file a contempt action to enforce the existing order. An attorney can advise on the best approach.
Internal Resources
For more on Virginia family law, see our Virginia Family Law Hub. For help in nearby areas, consider our Henrico County family lawyers. For other legal needs in Virginia Beach, we also handle criminal defense and DUI cases.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.