Paternity Dispute Lawyer Colonial Heights, VA

You have been told that you are the father of a child—or you want to establish your own rights as a father—and a legal dispute is brewing in Colonial Heights. Suddenly, the question of paternity is at the center of everything: custody, child support, and your future relationship with your child. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team help clients navigate these sensitive disputes. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

When a Paternity Dispute Affects Your Family

Paternity disputes in Virginia carry consequences that ripple far beyond a DNA test result. For an unmarried father, establishing paternity is the legal gateway to custody and visitation rights. For a mother, a paternity determination is often the necessary first step in securing child support. For a man who doubts his biological connection, a dispute may mean declining financial obligations or preserving an existing father-child bond. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand that each case is personal. They work with clients in Colonial Heights to protect their parental rights, challenge or confirm paternity through court-ordered genetic testing, and pursue fair outcomes under Virginia law. The Colonial Heights Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court hears many of these matters; the Circuit Court may become involved when there is a pending divorce or appeal. Having an experienced attorney who knows both courts can make the difference between a rushed resolution and a carefully built case.

What to Expect During a Virginia Paternity Case

A paternity case in Colonial Heights typically begins with a petition filed by the mother, the alleged father, or the Virginia Department of Social Services. Under Va. Code § 20-49.1, the court may order genetic testing to establish biological parentage. Once paternity is legally determined—or rebutted—the court addresses support, custody, and visitation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel guide clients through each stage. They help gather evidence, prepare for hearings, and negotiate parenting plans when appropriate. Because Virginia is an equitable distribution state, paternity findings can also affect property division in an associated divorce proceeding. The timeline varies, but a straightforward contested paternity matter often moves through the court more quickly than a divorce with complex equitable distribution. Throughout the process, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel remain available by phone at (888) 437-7747 to answer questions and provide updates.

Potential Outcomes in a Paternity Dispute

Establishing paternity under Virginia law creates a legal father-child relationship that triggers rights and duties. The father may seek custody and a regular visitation schedule; the court will apply the trusted‑interests factors in Va. Code § 20-124.3. Child support is calculated under the Virginia guidelines, based on the combined gross income of the parents. A man who is found not to be the biological father can be relieved of support obligations. When genetic testing excludes paternity, the court will dismiss the petition. In some cases, a man who has acted as a father for years may wish to preserve that role even if he is not the biological parent; such matters require careful argument in the Colonial Heights Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Every outcome depends on the specific facts of the case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work with clients to understand the likely range of outcomes so they can make informed decisions about settlement or trial.

Attorney Credentials: Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor. He has practiced law since 1997 and 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). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every family law matter they handle. They appear regularly in the Colonial Heights Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and the Colonial Heights Circuit Court, and they understand the local procedures and judicial expectations that shape paternity disputes in the Twelfth Judicial District. You can reach Mr. Sris and his team at (888) 437-7747.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can an unmarried father get custody in Virginia without a paternity determination?

No. Without a legal determination of paternity, an unmarried father has no custody or visitation rights under Virginia law. The court must first establish a legal parent‑child relationship through an acknowledgment of paternity or a court order. Once paternity is established, the father may petition for custody and visitation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help you initiate the necessary legal proceedings. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

What if I am told I am the father but I do not believe it is true?

You have the right to request a court-ordered genetic test to challenge a paternity claim. Under Va. Code § 20-49.1, the court may order DNA testing. If the test excludes you as the biological father, the paternity case will be dismissed. An experienced attorney can help you protect your rights and avoid being legally tied to a child who is not yours.

How is child support calculated in a Virginia paternity case?

Child support is calculated under the Virginia child support guidelines, which use the combined gross monthly income of both parents. After paternity is established, the court will apply the guidelines to determine a support obligation. The amount is influenced by the number of children, custody arrangements, and health insurance costs. Consulting an attorney ensures the income figures and deductions are accurately presented to the court.

Can a paternity case be transferred to the Circuit Court from the J&DR Court?

Yes, a paternity case may be appealed from the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court to the Circuit Court for a de novo hearing. This often happens when a party disagrees with the initial ruling. The Circuit Court rehearing allows a fresh look at the evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience handling paternity appeals in the Colonial Heights Circuit Court.

Do I really need a lawyer for a paternity dispute in Colonial Heights?

While you are not required to have a lawyer, paternity disputes involve complex legal rights that can affect your relationship with your child and your finances for years. A lawyer can help you navigate genetic testing, present evidence, and negotiate agreements that protect your interests. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can discuss the specific advantages of legal representation during a consultation.

What happens after paternity is established?

Once paternity is legally established, the court can address custody, visitation, and child support. The father’s name can be added to the birth certificate, and he gains the right to seek court-ordered time with the child. The mother may enforce child support. Both parents then have ongoing legal duties. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help you understand the full scope of rights and responsibilities that follow a paternity finding.

Schedule a Consultation

To discuss your paternity dispute with an experienced lawyer, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel serve clients throughout Colonial Heights, including Swift Creek and the Petersburg border area. Our Richmond location is at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. By appointment only.

Phone: (888) 437-7747
Richmond Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225

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