Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Family law matters in Chesterfield County are governed by Virginia statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for divorce, custody, and support cases. Our Richmond location is strategically positioned to serve Chesterfield County families. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only.
Virginia courts decide family cases based on the child’s best interests and equitable division of assets.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law is primarily codified in Title 20 of the Virginia Code. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 (grounds for divorce), Va. Code § 20-124.2 (best interests of the child factors), and Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property). The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings deep knowledge of these laws. Mr. Sris personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, giving our firm unique insight into equitable distribution proceedings.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Handling a Family Law Case in Chesterfield County
Family law cases in Chesterfield County are heard in the Circuit Court for more complex divorce and equitable distribution matters, and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (JDRDC) for initial custody, visitation, and support issues. The two courts have different procedures and judges.
- Determine the correct court: File divorce and property division in Circuit Court. File initial custody, visitation, and support petitions in JDRDC.
- File the initial pleading: Submit a complaint or petition along with the required filing fee to the appropriate court clerk’s office.
- Serve the other party: Ensure proper service of process according to Virginia law.
- Attend the scheduling conference: The court will set deadlines for discovery, mediation, and potential trial dates.
- Complete discovery and mediation: Exchange financial disclosures and participate in good faith in court-ordered mediation.
- Prepare for hearing or trial: If settlement fails, prepare evidence and arguments for a bench trial before a judge.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Chesterfield County, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties but determine critical rights regarding children, assets, and support.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Child Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.2) | Joint or sole legal/physical custody; detailed visitation schedule |
| Child Support | Virginia statutory guidelines | Monthly payment based on income, childcare, and healthcare costs |
| Spousal Support | Factors in Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Temporary or permanent support based on need and ability to pay |
| Equitable Distribution | Fair division per Va. Code § 20-107.3 | Division of marital property and debts; not necessarily equal |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Chesterfield County Family Law Matter?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who personally helped amend Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3. This deep, insider understanding of the law’s intent provides a distinct advantage in negotiating and litigating property division.
Global advocacy. Local precision. We apply our extensive resources and experience to achieve the best possible results for families in Chesterfield County and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child custody determined in Virginia?
Virginia courts determine custody based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s own reasonable preferences if they are of sufficient age and maturity.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody involves the right to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing (education, healthcare, religion). Physical custody determines where the child lives. Both can be shared (joint) or granted primarily to one parent (sole).
How does Virginia calculate child support?
Virginia uses statutory guidelines based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, costs for healthcare and childcare, and the custody arrangement. The court can deviate from the guideline amount under specific circumstances.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the process of dividing marital property and debts. Virginia law (Va. Code § 20-107.3) requires a fair, but not necessarily equal, division based on factors like each spouse’s contributions and the marriage’s duration.
Can I modify a custody or support order in Chesterfield County?
Yes. You can petition the Chesterfield County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or Circuit Court to modify an order if there has been a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare or the parents’ financial situations.
Our Approach to Family Law Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We focus on strategic negotiation to reach settlements that protect our clients’ relationships with their children and financial security. When settlement is not possible, we prepare thoroughly for litigation in Chesterfield County courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Family Law Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location is conveniently accessible for Chesterfield County residents, located near the intersection of Chippenham Parkway and Powhite Parkway. We serve families throughout Chesterfield County, including the communities of Midlothian, Bon Air, Chester, and surrounding areas.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current information regarding your specific family law situation in Chesterfield County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.