Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer – How Can We Protect Your Family?
A Chesterfield County family law case involves legal matters like divorce, custody, and support governed by Virginia statutes, including Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in the Chesterfield County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and Circuit Court.
Family law in Virginia covers divorce, child custody, support, and property division, each with specific legal procedures and potential outcomes that depend on your unique circumstances.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified under Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for grounds of divorce, Va. Code § 20-124.2 for child custody factors, and Va. Code § 20-107.3 for the equitable distribution of marital property. These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Chesterfield County courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s family laws, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures and forms, refer to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court website.
Handling a Family Law Case in Chesterfield County
Family law cases in Chesterfield County are heard in either the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (for matters involving children) or the Circuit Court (for divorce and equitable distribution). The process typically begins with filing a petition or complaint, followed by periods of discovery, possible mediation, and ultimately a hearing or trial if no agreement is reached.
- Consult with a family law attorney to understand your rights and options.
- File the necessary initial pleadings (Complaint, Petition) with the correct court.
- Participate in the discovery process to exchange financial and other relevant information.
- Attend settlement conferences or mediation as required or recommended by the court.
- Prepare for and attend final hearings or trial if the case does not settle.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Chesterfield County, family law matters do not carry criminal penalties but result in court orders determining custody, support, and asset division, with consequences for non-compliance.
| Matter | Primary Legal Focus | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Dissolution of marriage, property division | Equitable distribution of assets/debts, spousal support |
| Child Custody | Physical & legal decision-making for children | Parenting plan, visitation schedule |
| Child Support | Financial support for children | Monthly payment amount based on guidelines |
| Spousal Support | Financial support for a spouse | Monthly payment amount and duration |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law cases. Mr. Sris personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. We use our experience to provide a case-specific approach for clients in Chesterfield County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia offers both fault-based and no-fault divorce. The most common is a no-fault divorce based on living separate and apart for one year (or six months with no minor children and a separation agreement). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, and felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Chesterfield County?
Virginia law requires courts to decide custody based on the child’s best interests. Judges consider factors like each parent’s ability to cooperate, the child’s needs, and the parent-child relationship. There is no presumption for or against either parent.
How is child support calculated?
Child support in Virginia is calculated using statewide guidelines that consider both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, healthcare costs, childcare costs, and existing custody arrangements. The court can deviate from the guideline amount under specific circumstances.
What is equitable distribution of property?
Equitable distribution, under Va. Code § 20-107.3, is the court’s process of classifying marital property (acquired during marriage) and separate property, then dividing the marital property fairly, though not necessarily equally, between spouses during a divorce.
Can a custody or support order be modified?
Yes. A court can modify an existing child custody or support order if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order that affects the child’s best interests or the support calculation. The parent seeking the change must file a petition with the court.
Family Law Help in Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves the Chesterfield County area and surrounding communities like Midlothian, Bon Air, and Brandermill. We are accessible via Route 288 and Chippenham Parkway. For a family law lawyer near Chesterfield County, contact us for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
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(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
More Legal Information
For an overview of Virginia family law, see our Virginia Family Law Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, our Henrico County family law lawyer and Richmond City family law lawyer pages provide locality-specific insights. For other legal needs in Chesterfield County, consider our Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer services. Learn more about Attorney Samantha Powers.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.