Virginia Beach Contempt Of Court Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
A contempt of court charge in Virginia Beach is a serious allegation that you willfully violated a judge’s order. This can lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent court record. A contempt of court lawyer Virginia Beach from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the accusation, present your defense, and work to protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Contempt of court in Virginia is a legal finding that you disobeyed or showed disrespect for the authority of a court. It is not a standalone criminal charge under a specific statute but is an inherent power of the court to enforce its orders and maintain its dignity. Contempt can be civil (aimed at coercing compliance) or criminal (punishing past disrespect). In family law, a court order violation lawyer Virginia Beach is often needed for issues like failing to pay child support, violating custody orders, or refusing to follow property division decrees.
Virginia courts derive their contempt power from common law and statutes like Va. Code § 18.2-456, which outlines acts constituting contempt. The consequences are severe and can include fines, incarceration until compliance, or a fixed jail sentence. Having a skilled contempt of court lawyer Virginia Beach is critical to handle the procedural requirements and mount an effective defense.
- Receive a Rule to Show Cause or motion for contempt from the other party.
- File a written response with the court before the hearing date.
- Gather all evidence proving your compliance or inability to comply.
- Present your case at the contempt hearing in Virginia Beach General District or Circuit Court.
- Address any penalties or purging conditions set by the judge.
- Ensure future compliance to avoid further allegations.
For official Virginia statutes, refer to the Virginia General Assembly code on contempt. For local procedures, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
In Virginia Beach, a contempt finding can result in fines up to $250, up to 10 days in jail, or both for each act of contempt, with the potential for longer sentences for repeated or aggravated violations.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt (to compel) | Not a crime | Until compliance | Possible | Attorney’s fees to opposing party |
| Criminal Contempt (to punish) | Direct or indirect | Up to 10 days per act | Up to $250 | Criminal record, loss of privileges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Virginia family law matters, Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in the law we practice.
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
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in family law cases. In Virginia Beach, we have secured resolutions for clients facing enforcement actions. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a background as a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex contempt matters.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients with Virginia Beach court matters. We represent individuals in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. For a contempt of court lawyer Virginia Beach near you, contact us 24/7.
Virginia Beach Contempt of Court FAQs
What is the penalty for contempt of court in Virginia?
For criminal contempt, penalties can be up to 10 days in jail and a $250 fine per violation. For civil contempt, you may be jailed until you comply with the court’s order.
Can I go to jail for not paying child support in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Failure to pay court-ordered child support is a common reason for a contempt finding. The court can impose jail time to compel payment or as punishment for willful non-payment.
What should I do if I am served with a contempt motion?
Contact a contempt of court lawyer Virginia Beach immediately. Do not ignore the motion. You must file a formal response with the court and prepare evidence for your hearing.
What defenses are there to a contempt charge?
Common defenses include inability to comply (e.g., financial hardship), lack of willfulness, ambiguity in the court order, or that you have already complied. An enforcement of court order lawyer Virginia Beach can evaluate your specific situation.
Is contempt a criminal charge?
It depends. Criminal contempt is punitive and creates a criminal record. Civil contempt is coercive, not criminal, and ends when you comply with the order.
For related legal help, see our pages on Virginia Family Law, Henrico County Family Lawyer, and Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.