Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes that define divorce grounds, property division, and child-related matters. The primary laws include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), and § 20-124.2 (custody best interests). These statutes provide the legal framework for all family law cases filed in New Kent County.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current statutory text, refer to the Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available through the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Family Court Process
New Kent County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. The Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody, visitation, child support, and protective orders. Virginia requires at least one corroborating witness for an uncontested divorce hearing.
- Consult with an attorney to evaluate your case and determine grounds for divorce.
- File a complaint with the New Kent County Circuit Court and pay the $86 filing fee.
- Serve the complaint on your spouse using the sheriff, a private process server, or waiver.
- Attend a pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody if needed.
- Participate in discovery, mediation, or settlement negotiations.
- Attend a final hearing or trial if the case is contested.
Family Law Penalties and Costs in New Kent County
In New Kent County, divorce and family law matters involve court costs, potential support obligations, and property division under equitable distribution principles.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Costs/Fees | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault | 2-4 months | $86 filing + service fees | Final decree ends marriage |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or No-fault | 9-18 months | $86 filing + discovery + trial costs | Court decides property, support, custody |
| Child Support | Guideline-based | Establish at filing | Court costs | Monthly payments based on income |
| Equitable Distribution | Marital property division | 12-24 months if complex | Valuation experts ($500-$2,500+) | Fair but not equal division of assets/debts |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our team direct insight into this critical area of law. Our Richmond location serves New Kent County clients with full representation.
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 in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented case results in New Kent County across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for family law matters we have handled. These results include dismissals, favorable settlements, and successful trial outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. Our family law lawyer near New Kent County provides representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a divorce take in New Kent County, Virginia?
An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. A contested divorce typically takes 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary support are usually set within 21-60 days of filing the motion.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Service of process costs about $12 via sheriff or $50-$100 for a private server. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party).
Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state. Marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is 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 10 factors, including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. New Kent County J&DR Court handles standalone custody cases.
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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In New Kent County, we handle other matters including criminal defense and DUI/DWI defense. Learn more about our attorneys.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.