Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
New Kent County family law matters, including divorce under Va. Code § 20-91 and equitable distribution under § 20-107.3, are handled at the local Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Our firm provides full representation for divorce, child custody, and support matters. We help you understand the legal process and protect your rights.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for New Kent County
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes. Divorce requires a 6-month separation if there are no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation if there are minor children (Va. Code § 20-91). Virginia is an equitable distribution state, meaning marital property is divided fairly based on 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris of our firm. Child custody is determined by the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Divorce) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Information about the New Kent County courts, including forms and procedures, is available on the Virginia Courts website for New Kent County.
New Kent County Family Law 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.
- Initial Consultation and Document Gathering: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will file a Complaint for Divorce or other appropriate pleading at the New Kent County Circuit Court clerk’s office, paying the $86 filing fee.
- Service of Process and Response: The other party is served with the complaint. They have 21 days to file an Answer. If they do not respond, you may proceed by default.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both sides exchange financial information through discovery. Your attorney will negotiate a settlement on property division, support, and custody if possible.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: If settlement fails, the case proceeds to trial before a judge. After the judge’s ruling, a final decree of divorce is entered, concluding the case.
Penalties and Legal Standards in Virginia
In New Kent County, family law matters involve specific legal standards rather than criminal penalties. Virginia uses equitable distribution for property division, no-fault divorce after a mandated separation period, and child support guidelines based on combined gross income.
| Matter | Legal Classification | Potential Outcome | Financial Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contested Divorce | Civil Suit | Court-ordered division of assets/debts | Attorney fees, court costs ($86+), possible spousal/child support | Parenting plan, custody schedule |
| Child Support | Court Order | Monthly payment based on VA guidelines | Percentage of income | Contempt for non-payment |
| Equitable Distribution | Civil Proceeding | Fair division of marital property | Division of assets (home, retirement, business) | Long-term financial change |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Authority
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, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to every case.
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 total documented case results across all practice areas in New Kent County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law and other matters.
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), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a family law lawyer near New Kent County and the Colonial Downs area. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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?
Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree; contested divorce: 9-18 months; complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months; pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody: typically set within 21-60 days of motion. Virginia requires a 6-month separation (no minor children with signed agreement) or 1-year separation (with minor children) before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86; sheriff service of process: approximately $12; private process server: $50-$100; pendente lite motion: additional court costs; Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+; mediation: $100-$300/hour per party. Additional costs include Guardian ad Litem for custody and mediation.
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 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
How is child custody decided in New Kent County, Virginia?
Custody in New Kent County is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 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. New Kent County Circuit Court handles custody within divorce cases.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at New Kent County Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need other legal services in New Kent County, consider our criminal defense or DUI/DWI attorneys. Learn more about our attorneys’ experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is updated from court records and statutes. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.