New Kent County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
If you are facing a divorce, custody dispute, or support issue in New Kent County, you need a lawyer who understands Virginia family law statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in these sensitive matters. Our approach focuses on protecting your rights and your family’s well-being throughout the legal process.
Family law cases in Virginia are governed by state statutes that determine divorce grounds, child custody standards, and property division rules.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), Va. Code § 20-124.2 (best interests of the child standard), and Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property). The New Kent County Circuit Court applies these statutes to cases filed within its jurisdiction.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family laws, visit the official Virginia Code Title 20 online. For local court procedures and forms, refer to the New Kent County Circuit Court website.
handling the New Kent County Family Court Process
Family law cases in New Kent County are heard in the Circuit Court. The process typically begins with filing a complaint and can involve discovery, settlement conferences, and potentially a trial.
- Initial Consultation & Strategy: Discuss your situation and goals with an attorney to understand your legal options.
- Filing & Service: Your attorney will prepare and file the necessary legal documents with the court and ensure proper service on the other party.
- Discovery & Financial Disclosure: Both parties exchange financial information and other relevant documents required by law.
- Negotiation & Settlement: Your attorney will negotiate with the other side to try to resolve issues like property division, support, and custody.
- Court Hearings & Trial: If an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney will represent you at hearings and present your case at trial before a judge.
- Final Order & Post-Judgment Matters: The court issues a final order. Your attorney can also assist with post-judgment modifications or enforcement if circumstances change.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In New Kent County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties like incarceration, but they determine critical issues such as asset division, child custody, and financial support obligations.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Property Division | Equitable Distribution (Va. Code § 20-107.3) | Fair, but not necessarily equal, division of marital property and debts. |
| Child Custody | Best Interests of the Child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Legal and physical custody arrangements determined by the court. |
| Spousal Support | Statutory Factors (Va. Code § 20-107.1) | Temporary or permanent support payments based on need and ability to pay. |
| Child Support | Virginia Guidelines | Monthly support amount calculated based on parental income and custody schedule. |
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Our Firm’s Background in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has handled thousands of family law matters. Our managing attorney personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, giving us direct insight into the law’s application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with no minor children and a separation agreement). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, and desertion (Va. Code § 20-91).
How is child custody determined in New Kent County?
The court determines custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s reasonable preference if of sufficient age and intelligence (Va. Code § 20-124.3).
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the court’s process of classifying and dividing marital property. It is not necessarily equal, but what is fair based on statutory factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration (Va. Code § 20-107.3).
How long does a divorce take in Virginia?
The timeline varies. An uncontested divorce can finalize shortly after the statutory separation period. A contested divorce involving litigation can take a year or more, depending on the New Kent County Circuit Court’s docket and case complexity.
Can I modify a child support order in New Kent County?
Yes. You can petition the court for modification if there has been a material change in circumstances, such as a significant change in either parent’s income or the child’s needs. The change must be substantial and ongoing.
Family Law Help in New Kent County
Our firm serves clients throughout the New Kent County area. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are held by appointment only to ensure we can dedicate our full attention to your case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Information
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law overview. If you are in a neighboring area, you can learn about our services for Henrico County family law or Charles City County family law. For other legal needs in New Kent County, see our page on New Kent County criminal defense.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.