Chesapeake Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family?
Family law matters in Chesapeake 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 firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We serve clients throughout the Chesapeake area. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia law provides specific procedures for divorce, child custody, and spousal support that require careful handling.
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 § 20-107.1 (spousal support), Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property), and Va. Code § 20-124.2 (child custody best interests factors). These laws provide the framework for resolving family disputes in Chesapeake courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia family law statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For local court procedures and forms, refer to the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court website.
Chesapeake Family Court Procedures
Family law cases in Chesapeake are heard in the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The process typically begins with filing a petition and serving the other party. The court may schedule mediation to encourage settlement.
- File a petition for divorce, custody, or support with the court clerk.
- Serve the legal documents on the other party according to Virginia rules.
- Attend the initial hearing or status conference scheduled by the court.
- Exchange financial information and other documents through discovery.
- Participate in court-ordered mediation or settlement conferences.
- Proceed to a bench trial before a judge if no settlement is reached.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Chesapeake, family law matters do not carry criminal penalties but can result in court orders affecting finances, property, and parental rights.
| Matter | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Divorce | Va. Code § 20-91 | Dissolution of marriage, property division, spousal support |
| Child Custody | Va. Code § 20-124.2 | Legal and physical custody arrangements, parenting time |
| Child Support | Va. Code § 20-108.2 | Monthly support payments based on Virginia guidelines |
| Spousal Support | Va. Code § 20-107.1 | Temporary or permanent support payments |
Results may vary based on the specific facts of each case.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings substantial experience to Chesapeake family law cases. Founded in 1997, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. Our approach focuses on protecting your rights while seeking efficient resolutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia allows both fault and no-fault divorce. The most common no-fault ground is living separate and apart for one year (or six months with a separation agreement and no minor children). Fault grounds include adultery, cruelty, and desertion.
How is child custody determined in Chesapeake?
The Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court decides custody based on the child’s best interests. Factors include each parent’s ability to care for the child, the child’s needs, and the existing relationship between parent and child.
What factors affect spousal support in Virginia?
Courts consider many factors under Va. Code § 20-107.1, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, the standard of living during marriage, and each party’s contributions to the family’s well-being.
How is marital property divided in a Virginia divorce?
Virginia is an equitable distribution state under Va. Code § 20-107.3. The court divides marital property fairly, but not necessarily equally, based on factors like each spouse’s contributions, the marriage’s duration, and the economic circumstances of each party.
Can a custody or support order be modified?
Yes. You can petition the court to modify custody or support if there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order. This requires filing a motion with the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes in family law cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington DC. Our firm-wide experience includes numerous resolved divorce, custody, and support matters.
Results may vary based on the specific facts of each case.
Serving the Chesapeake Area
Our Virginia location serves clients throughout Chesapeake and surrounding communities. We are accessible to residents of Great Bridge, Greenbrier, and Western Branch.
Family law lawyer near Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Services
If you need assistance with other legal matters, we also provide representation for Virginia family law cases statewide. For residents of neighboring areas, see our Virginia Beach family law lawyer page. In the same locality, we handle Chesapeake criminal defense matters. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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