Contested Divorce Lawyer New Kent County, VA
You and your spouse cannot agree on how to divide your assets, whether spousal support should be paid, or who should have custody of the children. The divorce that seemed manageable has become a contested proceeding. In New Kent County, contested divorces are heard in the Circuit Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. Having a lawyer who knows the local court and Virginia’s equitable distribution rules can help you protect what matters most. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent clients in contested divorce matters in New Kent County, and they bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to these cases. Results may vary. To discuss your situation, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Your Strategy Options in a New Kent County Contested Divorce
Contested divorce doesn’t have to mean years of litigation. Many cases settle after both sides exchange information and understand the likely outcome under Virginia law. One option is to negotiate a marital settlement agreement with the help of your attorney, even while a complaint is pending. Mediation, although not mandatory in Virginia, can help narrow the issues and may lead to a resolution that avoids trial. When settlement isn’t possible, your lawyer prepares your case for a judge’s decision on property division, spousal support, and custody. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate each contested divorce to determine which strategy — negotiation, mediation, or litigation — best serves your interests while controlling cost and stress.
What to Expect in Contested Divorce Proceedings
Contested divorce in Virginia starts when one spouse files a complaint for divorce in the New Kent County Circuit Court. The other spouse is served and files an answer, and the case enters discovery — the exchange of financial records, appraisals, and interrogatories. Temporary matters such as spousal support, custody, and use of the family home can be resolved with a pendente lite hearing under Va. Code § 20-103. As the case moves forward, your legal team gathers evidence, consults forensic accountants or business valuators when necessary, and prepares for trial. If the parties cannot agree, the court holds a final hearing at which the judge hears testimony and decides all unresolved issues. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to achieve a favorable result. Results may vary.
Penalties and Consequences of a Contested Divorce
While contested divorce has no criminal penalties, its financial and personal consequences can be serious. Equitable distribution means the court divides marital property fairly but not necessarily equally, considering factors such as the length of the marriage, each spouse’s contributions, and tax consequences. Spousal support, if awarded, depends on a statutory list of 13 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1. Child support follows guidelines based on combined gross income, and custody is determined under the trusted-interest factors of Va. Code § 20-124.3. A contested divorce can also delay your ability to move on financially and emotionally. Having knowledgeable legal counsel helps you understand the potential outcomes and avoid missteps that could worsen the result.
Legal Help for Contested Divorce in New Kent County
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced law since 1997. He 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 adds over 120 years of combined legal experience across family law, litigation, and related fields, with a record of 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. When you work with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you receive guidance from attorneys who understand New Kent County courts and Virginia’s divorce statutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a contested divorce take in New Kent County, Virginia?
Contested divorces in Virginia can last from several months to well over a year, depending on the number of disputed issues and the court’s calendar. In New Kent County, the timeline is influenced by discovery requirements, motion practice, and the availability of judges. A case with complex property or custody disputes generally takes longer than one with only a few contested points. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help you understand the likely timeframe for your situation.
How is property divided in a Virginia contested divorce?
Virginia divides marital property under equitable distribution, not a strict 50-50 split. Marital property includes assets acquired during the marriage, while separate property — property owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance — remains with the original owner. The judge decides a fair division after considering each spouse’s contributions, the marriage’s duration, and other statutory factors. A lawyer can help you present evidence that supports a distribution favorable to your interests.
Do I need a lawyer for a contested divorce in New Kent County?
Virginia law does not require you to hire a lawyer, but contested divorce involves complex legal and financial issues that are difficult to manage without representation. The New Kent County Circuit Court expects litigants to follow procedural rules, file timely pleadings, and present evidence properly. A misstep can affect property division, custody, or spousal support. Consulting an experienced family law attorney gives you a better understanding of your options. To schedule a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can I get spousal support in a contested divorce?
Spousal support may be awarded if one spouse has a demonstrated need and the other has the ability to pay, after the court weighs the 13 factors listed in Va. Code § 20-107.1. These factors include the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and contributions to the family. A judge decides both the amount and duration of support. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can evaluate your case and explain what support might be ordered.
What happens if my spouse refuses to participate in the divorce?
If your spouse ignores the complaint or fails to cooperate, you can still proceed with a contested divorce by taking a default judgment after proper notice and service of process. In New Kent County Circuit Court, you must prove grounds for divorce and the facts supporting your requested relief. Even without the other side’s participation, the court will still require evidence of property division, custody, and support. Having a lawyer ensures that your paperwork and evidence meet the court’s requirements.
Where can I find a contested divorce lawyer near New Kent County?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients throughout New Kent County and the surrounding area from our Richmond location at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. Our firm has practiced since 1997 and handles all aspects of contested divorce, including property division, spousal support, child custody, and modification of court orders. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation with Mr. Sris or a member of his Of Counsel team.
Contested divorce representation also available in: Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church City, Prince William County, and Manassas City.
Official legal resources: Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) · New Kent County Combined Court · Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.