In Henrico County, temporary custody is decided under Va. Code § 20-124.3 based on the child’s best interests. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented case results in Henrico County. A Temporary Custody Lawyer Henrico County can help you file a pendente lite motion at the Henrico County J&DR Court.
What Is Temporary Custody in Henrico County, Virginia?
Temporary custody, also called pendente lite custody, is a short-term parenting arrangement ordered by the court while a divorce or custody case is pending. Under Va. Code § 20-124.3, the court considers 10 factors to determine what serves the child’s best interests. These factors include each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. The court may also appoint a Guardian ad Litem to represent the child’s interests. Temporary custody orders remain in effect until a final custody hearing or permanent order is entered.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 20-124.3 — Custody and Visitation Best Interests Factors (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Henrico County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court (official Virginia Courts website)
Insider Procedural Edge: Temporary Custody in Henrico County
In Henrico County J&DR Court, temporary custody motions are typically heard within 21-60 days of filing. The court often appoints a Guardian ad Litem for contested cases. You must file a verified petition and supporting affidavit detailing the child’s current living situation and why temporary custody is needed. The court may issue an emergency temporary custody order without notice to the other parent if the child is in immediate danger.
- File a verified petition for temporary custody at the Henrico County J&DR Court (4301 East Parham Road).
- Include a sworn affidavit detailing the child’s current living situation and why temporary custody is needed.
- Request a pendente lite hearing date from the clerk’s office.
- Serve the other parent with the petition and notice of hearing.
- Attend the hearing prepared with evidence of your role as primary caregiver.
- Obtain the temporary custody order and ensure it is filed with the court.
In Henrico County, temporary custody is a civil matter, not a criminal penalty. The court’s focus is on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
| Issue | Classification | Duration | Court | Legal Standard | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary Custody | Civil — Family Law | Until final order or modification | Henrico County J&DR Court | Best interests of the child (10 factors) | Guardian ad Litem may be appointed; mediation available but not mandatory |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Temporary Custody Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law. The firm has firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results across all practice areas with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys understand the Henrico County court system and can guide you through the temporary custody process.
Samantha Rae Powers — Of Counsel, Family Law
VA Bar 2023 | FL Bar 2005 | J.D./M.A. University of Florida 2005 | Ph.D. Communication UCSB 2017 | 18+ years experience. Ms. Powers focuses exclusively on Virginia family law matters, including temporary custody, divorce, and equitable distribution.
Henrico County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 total documented case results across all practice areas in Henrico County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable resolutions in family law, criminal defense, and traffic matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Henrico County Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts (4301 East Parham Road), accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We serve Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
Looking for a temporary custody lawyer near me Henrico County? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Temporary Custody in Henrico County
How long does temporary custody last in Henrico County?
It depends. Temporary custody orders remain in effect until the court enters a final custody order or modifies the temporary order. In Henrico County, final custody hearings are typically scheduled within 6-12 months of the initial filing.
Can I get temporary custody without the other parent’s consent in Henrico County?
Yes. You can file a motion for temporary custody without the other parent’s consent. The court will schedule a hearing and both parents will have the opportunity to present evidence. The judge decides based on the child’s best interests.
What factors does the Henrico County court consider for temporary custody?
The court considers 10 factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3, including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, any history of abuse, and the child’s age and needs. The child’s preference may also be considered if the child is 12 or older.
How much does a temporary custody lawyer cost in Henrico County?
It depends. Costs vary based on case complexity. An affordable temporary custody lawyer Henrico County may offer flat fees for uncontested matters or hourly rates for contested cases. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
Can temporary custody be modified in Henrico County?
Yes. Either parent can file a motion to modify temporary custody if there has been a material change in circumstances. The court will hold a hearing to determine whether the modification serves the child’s best interests.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer
- Hanover County Family Law Lawyer
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Henrico County DUI Lawyer
- Richmond Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.