Grandparent Custody Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
For grandparent custody matters in Virginia Beach, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides legal representation through its Richmond location. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Reach us at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Virginia Beach Courts — Family Law and Custody
Grandparent custody cases in Virginia Beach are heard in the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. The J&DR District Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, handles standalone custody, visitation, and child support matters. The Circuit Court, at the same address, has jurisdiction over divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support, and may also handle custody within a divorce proceeding. The court’s phone number is (757) 385-8571. Our Richmond location at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225, represents clients throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. All consultations are by appointment; call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.
How Grandparent Custody Cases Proceed in Virginia Beach
Under Virginia law, a grandparent may petition for custody when it is in the child’s best interests. The court applies the factors in Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering the child’s age, health, and relationships with parents and grandparents, among other circumstances. A grandparent must show that the child’s welfare requires a change of custody and that the parent-child relationship is not serving the child’s needs. The procedure typically begins with filing a petition in the Virginia Beach J&DR District Court, serving the parents, and presenting evidence at a hearing. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child and may order mediation. Our firm assists with preparing the petition, gathering documentation, and presenting a compelling case for the child’s well‑being.
At the hearing, the judge evaluates evidence such as witness testimony, records of the child’s living situation, and any history of parental unfitness. The court can award temporary custody while the matter is pending. If the grandparent lives outside the area, the court may coordinate with other jurisdictions under the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. Each case is unique, and outcomes turn on the specific facts. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for guidance on your situation.
What the Court Considers in Grandparent Custody Matters
Virginia Beach judges focus on the child’s best interests, weighing all relevant circumstances, including the child’s relationship with each parent and grandparent, the parents’ ability to provide care, any history of abuse or neglect, and the child’s adjustment to home, school, and community. Grandparents must present clear evidence that returning the child to the parents would be detrimental and that custody with the grandparent would serve the child’s health and safety. The court may also consider the child’s preference if the child is of sufficient age and maturity. Our lawyers present the evidence in a way that addresses the statutory factors and demonstrates the child’s need for stability. While every judge approaches these cases individually, we work to present a thorough and persuasive record.
Attorney Credentials — Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor. He founded the firm in 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team brings over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your grandparent custody matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can grandparents get custody in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Virginia law permits grandparents to seek custody when it is in the child’s best interests. The court considers the parent‑child relationship, the child’s needs, and whether the parents are unfit. A grandparent must file a petition in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. To discuss your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How do I start a grandparent custody case in Virginia Beach?
You begin by filing a custody petition with the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. You must state the reasons custody should be placed with you. The court will schedule a hearing where you can present evidence. An experienced attorney can help prepare your case. For guidance, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
What does the court consider when deciding grandparent custody?
The court examines the child’s best interests using factors in Va. Code § 20-124.3, such as the child’s age and health, the parent‑child relationship, the parents’ ability to care for the child, and any history of abuse. The judge may also consider the child’s preference if the child is of sufficient age and understanding. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
Do I need a lawyer for a grandparent custody case?
While not legally required, grandparent custody cases involve complex legal and procedural issues. An experienced lawyer can gather evidence, present your case effectively, and protect your rights. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. Reach us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your matter.
How long does a grandparent custody case take in Virginia Beach?
The timeline varies depending on court scheduling, case complexity, and whether the parents contest the petition. Temporary orders may be issued quickly, while a final hearing may take several months. For more information, call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
Also serving:
Family Law Lawyer Fairfax County |
Family Law Lawyer Prince William County |
Family Law Lawyer Manassas
Primary sources:
Virginia Code Title 20 – Domestic Relations ·
Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court ·
Virginia Courts
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.