Parenting Time Lawyer New Kent County, VA
You are a parent facing a divorce or separation, and you’re deeply concerned about how much time you’ll be able to spend with your children. When the other parent lives in New Kent County, Virginia, the local courts—the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and the New Kent County Circuit Court—will decide your parenting time. You need an attorney who knows these courts. Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents parents in New Kent County. Call (804) 201-9009 for a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Your Strategy Options
In a parenting time dispute, your approach depends on whether the matter is part of a divorce or a standalone custody case. Parents can often reach an agreement through negotiation or mediation, which allows them to craft a schedule that works for their family rather than leaving the decision entirely to a judge. A written parenting plan, incorporated into a separation agreement or court order, gives both parents clear expectations. If negotiation fails, the court will decide based on the best interests of the child. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel help parents understand which strategy fits their circumstances and advocate for a schedule that preserves the parent-child relationship.
What to Expect in New Kent County Courts
The New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, and child support matters. When parenting time is part of a divorce, the New Kent County Circuit Court hears the case. Both courts focus on the child’s best interests under Virginia law. The judge examines statutory factors, including each parent’s role in the child’s life, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse or neglect. The court may appoint a guardian ad litem to represent the child’s interests in contested cases.
Under Virginia law, the court considers ten statutory factors when determining the best interests of the child in parenting time matters (Va. Code § 20-124.3).
Source: Va. Code § 20-124.3.
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Parents may present evidence such as witness testimony, school records, and communication logs. The court’s goal is to issue an order that serves the child’s well‑being while respecting each parent’s role. Our attorneys prepare clients for what to expect and present a clear, evidence‑based argument focused on the statutory factors.
Consequences of a Parenting Time Dispute
A contested parenting time case can affect more than the immediate schedule. A parent who is seen as unwilling to support the child’s relationship with the other parent may receive less time. Once a final order is entered, modifying it requires showing a material change in circumstances—a high bar. If one parent violates the order, the other can seek enforcement through the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The court may order make‑up time, impose sanctions, or modify the existing schedule. Having effective representation early helps secure a workable order and protects your rights if problems arise later.
Attorney Credentials: Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team includes attorneys with extensive family law experience. Together, they bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm’s Richmond location—at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225—serves clients throughout New Kent County, and consultations are available by appointment at (804) 201-9009 or toll‑free at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is parenting time decided in New Kent County?
Parenting time in New Kent County is determined by the best interests of the child, using the ten statutory factors under Va. Code § 20‑124.3. The New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody and visitation matters, while the Circuit Court addresses parenting time within divorce proceedings. The judge evaluates each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, any history of abuse, and other relevant considerations. Our attorneys present evidence and arguments to support a favorable scheduling order.
Can I get more parenting time after a divorce?
You can seek a modification of parenting time if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order. This could include a parent’s relocation, a change in the child’s needs, or a parent’s inability to adhere to the current schedule. The court will reassess the child’s best interests. Our firm helps parents petition the New Kent County courts for modification and presents the evidence necessary to support their request.
What if the other parent violates the parenting time order?
If the other parent violates a court‑ordered parenting time schedule, you may file a motion for contempt or enforcement in the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The court can enforce the order through make‑up parenting time, sanctions, or modification of the existing order. Contacting a lawyer early helps protect your rights and ensures the order is upheld.
How can a lawyer help with parenting time disputes?
A lawyer can negotiate a parenting plan, represent you in mediation, gather evidence, and advocate for your interests in court. Attorneys familiar with New Kent County judges and procedures understand how to present your case effectively. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
How long does a parenting time case take in New Kent County?
The timeline for a parenting time case in New Kent County varies depending on whether it is contested, the court’s calendar, and the complexity of the issues. Uncontested agreements can be resolved in a few months, while contested cases may take longer. Our firm works to move your case forward efficiently while protecting your rights.
Do I need a lawyer for parenting time in New Kent County?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer, but representing yourself can be challenging, especially when the other parent has legal counsel. An experienced attorney helps you navigate the statutory factors, prepare evidence, and present a persuasive argument. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (804) 201‑9009.
Additional resources: Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) | New Kent County Combined Court.
Related family law services: Family Law Lawyer Fairfax County VA · Family Law Lawyer Fairfax VA · Family Law Lawyer Falls Church VA · Family Law Lawyer Prince William County VA · Family Law Lawyer Manassas VA.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to discuss your parenting time matter. Reach our Richmond location at (804) 201‑9009 or toll‑free at (888) 437‑7747. Appointments are available at your convenience.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment. Phone: (804) 201‑9009 | Toll‑free: (888) 437‑7747
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.