Divorce & Family Law Attorney in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia requires a 6-month separation for no-fault divorce if there are 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 in New Kent County is defined by the Virginia Code. Va. Code § 20-91 establishes the grounds for divorce, including no-fault separation and fault-based grounds like adultery or cruelty. Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute personally amended by Mr. Sris, governs how marital property is divided fairly—not necessarily equally—based on 11 statutory factors. Child custody determinations are made under Va. Code § 20-124.3, focusing on the child’s best interests.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family law statutes, visit the Va. Code § 20-91 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court-specific forms and procedures, refer to the New Kent County General District Court website.
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 District 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 Document Gathering: Schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your situation. Gather financial documents, marriage certificate, and any existing agreements.
- Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will file the divorce complaint with the New Kent County Circuit Court clerk, paying the $86 filing fee and arranging for service of process.
- Discovery and Negotiation: Both parties exchange financial information through discovery. Your attorney will negotiate a settlement on property division, support, and custody.
- Court Hearings and Final Decree: Attend any required hearings for temporary orders. If a settlement is reached, a final hearing is scheduled. The judge will enter the final decree of divorce.
New Kent County Divorce Penalties and Procedures
In New Kent County, divorce carries specific costs and timelines but no criminal penalties; it is a civil proceeding to dissolve a marriage and settle related issues.
| Issue | Classification | Timeline | Typical Cost Range | Court Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncontested Divorce | Civil Proceeding | 2-4 months | $86 filing fee + legal fees | Final decree dissolves marriage |
| Contested Divorce | Civil Litigation | 9-18 months | $86 fee + higher legal fees | Court decides property, support, custody |
| Complex Asset Division | Equitable Distribution | 12-24 months | Fees + experienced valuation costs | Property divided per Va. Code § 20-107.3 |
| Child Custody Dispute | Best Interests Determination | Varies | Fees + Guardian ad Litem ($500-$2,500+) | Custody order establishes parenting plan |
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’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, providing a unique depth of understanding for New Kent County property division cases. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct legal experience rather than generic strategies.
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 Family Law Case Results
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 our clients. These results include divorces finalized, custody agreements reached, and property settlements negotiated.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Family Law Representation in 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, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
We provide 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?
Uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement takes 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Contested divorces typically take 9-18 months. Complex cases with business valuation can take 12-24 months. Virginia requires a 6-month or 1-year separation before filing no-fault.
How much does a divorce cost in New Kent County, Virginia?
The Circuit Court filing fee is about $86. Additional costs include service of process ($12-$100), potential Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+), and mediation ($100-$300/hour). 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 based on 11 factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3, a statute personally amended by Mr. Sris. Separate property 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 and the child’s relationships. Standalone custody cases are heard in J&DR Court.
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault grounds require a 6-month or 1-year separation. Fault grounds include adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion for one year, or felony conviction with imprisonment for one year or more.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Our state hub page for family law.
Henrico County Family Law Lawyer – Representation in a neighboring county.
New Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Help with related legal matters.
Learn more about our attorneys.
Visit our Richmond location page for more information.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance regarding your New Kent County family law matter.