Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is governed by specific statutes. Grounds for divorce are found in Va. Code § 20-91, requiring a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation. Property division follows Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Child custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Child support is calculated using the Virginia guidelines in Va. Code § 20-108.1.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (official Virginia General Assembly). The New Kent County General District Court website provides local forms, filing information, and court schedules.
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 assess your grounds and goals.
- File the initial complaint with the New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Serve the complaint on your spouse through the sheriff or a process server.
- Engage in discovery, which may include financial disclosures and depositions.
- Attempt mediation or settlement negotiations to resolve issues.
- Proceed to a final hearing or trial if settlement is not reached.
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 the equitable division of marital property, not criminal penalties.
| Matter | Classification | Timeline | Typical Costs | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-Fault | 2-4 months | $86 filing + service fees | Requires signed separation agreement |
| Contested Divorce | Fault/No-Fault | 9-18 months | $86 filing + attorney fees | May involve pendente lite hearings |
| Complex Equitable Distribution | Civil | 12-24 months | Filing + experienced fees (forensic accountant) | Business valuation often required |
| Child Custody (Standalone) | J&DR Matter | Varies | Filing + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) | Based on child’s best interests |
Results may vary. The costs and timelines above are estimates based on typical New Kent County cases.
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, providing unique insight into property division law. This direct legislative experience is a key differentiator for clients in New Kent County facing complex marital estates.
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
New Kent County Case Experience
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 for family law matters. These results include successful resolutions in contested divorces, custody agreements, and complex property division cases.
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 serves 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.
Richmond Location — 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 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 by the sheriff costs about $12. Additional costs may include a Guardian ad Litem for custody ($500-$2,500+) and mediation ($100-$300 per hour per party). Attorney fees vary based on case complexity.
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, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. 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. Standalone custody cases are handled by the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.
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 on family law across Virginia, visit our Virginia family law lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with other matters in New Kent County, consider our criminal defense lawyer or DUI/DWI lawyer. Learn more about our attorneys’ experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.