Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, divorce requires a 6-month separation with no minor children and a signed agreement, or a 1-year separation if minor children are involved.
Virginia Family Law Statutes for New Kent County
Family law matters in New Kent County are governed by the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (divorce grounds), § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), § 20-108.1 (child support guidelines), § 20-124.2 (custody based on the child’s best interests), and § 20-107.1 (spousal support factors). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings deep knowledge of these statutes, including Mr. Sris’s personal amendment to the equitable distribution law.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, consult these official government sources:
New Kent County Family Court Process
New Kent County Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters at 12001 Courthouse Circle. 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 Case Assessment: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to review your situation, goals, and the specific New Kent County procedures.
- Filing the Complaint: File the divorce or custody complaint with the New Kent County Circuit Court clerk, paying the $86 filing fee and arranging for service of process.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Exchange financial disclosures and other information. Negotiate a settlement agreement on property, support, and custody if possible.
- Court Hearings and Trial: Attend pendente lite hearings for temporary orders and, if necessary, a final trial before a New Kent County Circuit Court judge.
New Kent County Family Law Procedures and Potential Outcomes
In New Kent County, family law matters follow equitable distribution principles, with no-fault divorce available after a mandated separation period.
| Matter | Legal Standard / Classification | Typical Timeline | Court Costs & Fees | Additional Factors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | No-fault (Separation) | 2-4 months | ~$86 filing + service fees | Requires signed separation agreement |
| Contested Divorce | Fault or No-fault | 9-18 months | Filing fees + potential experienced costs | May involve pendente lite hearings |
| Child Custody | Best interests of child (Va. Code § 20-124.3) | Varies | Filing fees + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) | 10 statutory factors considered |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division of marital property | 12-24 months if complex | Filing fees + business valuation costs | 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Firm Credentials and Local Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law cases in New Kent County. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), providing a unique depth of understanding for property division matters. The firm’s approach is grounded in this direct legislative experience.
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 for these matters. These results include dismissals, favorable settlements, and reductions in sought-after penalties.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Family Law Attorney Near New Kent County
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 Courthouse and Colonial Downs. We serve the communities 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?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing. Contested divorces typically take 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Pendente lite hearings for temporary orders are usually set within 21-60 days.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is approximately $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($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, not necessarily 50/50, based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3. Separate property, like pre-marriage assets or inheritances, is not divided.
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 relationships, and any history of abuse. Standalone custody cases go to J&DR Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month separation (no minor children with agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no wait), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer | Henrico County Family Law Lawyer | New Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block Profile | Richmond Office
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for up-to-date guidance regarding your New Kent County family law matter.