Custody Contempt Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defenses?
If you are accused of violating a custody order in New Kent County, you face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and loss of custody rights. A custody contempt lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build your defense. Our firm has 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Contempt of a Custody Order in Virginia?
Contempt of a custody order occurs when a parent willfully disobeys a court’s custody or visitation order. In Virginia, this is governed by statutes including Va. Code § 20-124.2 (custody best interests) and the court’s inherent power to enforce its own orders. A contempt of custody order lawyer New Kent County can explain that the court must find a willful violation, not just a mistake or misunderstanding. Penalties can include fines, make-up visitation for the other parent, changes to the custody order, and even jail time.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s custody laws, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6.1). For local court procedures, refer to the New Kent County General District Court website.
Handling a Custody Contempt Case in New Kent County
If you are served with a Rule to Show Cause for custody contempt in New Kent County, the process moves quickly. The court will schedule a hearing where you must explain why you should not be held in contempt. A custody order violation lawyer New Kent County can prepare your response, gather evidence of compliance or justification, and negotiate with the other party’s attorney.
- Immediately contact a custody contempt lawyer upon receiving a Rule to Show Cause.
- Gather all evidence related to the alleged violation (calendars, messages, receipts).
- Your attorney will file a formal response with the New Kent County J&DR Court.
- Prepare for a hearing where you may present witnesses and evidence.
- The judge will rule on whether contempt occurred and impose any penalties.
- If found in contempt, your lawyer can advise on steps for purging the contempt.
In New Kent County, a finding of contempt for violating a custody order can result in fines up to $250, court-ordered make-up parenting time, and in severe cases, jail time.
| Violation | Classification | Potential Penalties | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willful Custody/Visitation Violation | Civil Contempt | Fines, make-up time, attorney’s fees | Modified custody order, parenting classes |
| Repeated or Egregious Violation | Criminal Contempt | Jail time (up to 10 days), higher fines | Loss of custody, supervised visitation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Custody Contempt Defense
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 family law matters, our deep understanding of Virginia statutes is key. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a commitment to shaping 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
Case Results in New Kent County
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients in New Kent County. We have 11 total documented case results across all practice areas here, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In family law cases, a favorable outcome can mean avoiding a contempt finding, negotiating a modified agreement, or successfully purging contempt allegations.
Contact Our New Kent County Custody Contempt Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, providing accessible representation for custody contempt matters. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Custody Contempt in New Kent County
What happens if I miss my court-ordered visitation in New Kent County?
It depends. A single missed visit may not lead to contempt if you had a valid reason (e.g., child illness, emergency) and notified the other parent. However, a pattern of willful denial can result in a contempt filing. A custody contempt lawyer New Kent County can help demonstrate your intent.
Can I go to jail for violating a custody order in Virginia?
Yes. For willful and repeated violations, a judge can impose jail time as a penalty for criminal contempt, typically up to 10 days. This is why securing a custody order violation lawyer New Kent County immediately is critical to building a defense.
How do I fight a contempt charge in New Kent County?
First, hire a contempt of custody order lawyer New Kent County. Your defense may be that the violation was not willful, the order was unclear, or you had a justifiable reason. Your lawyer will gather evidence, file responses, and represent you at the hearing in New Kent County J&DR Court.
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt in custody cases?
Civil contempt aims to force compliance (e.g., ordering make-up time). Criminal contempt punishes past disobedience and can include jail. The same act can lead to both. A custody contempt lawyer New Kent County can handle these distinctions in your case.
Can a custody contempt charge affect my future custody rights?
Yes. A contempt finding is a negative factor in any future custody modification request. It can lead to reduced time, supervised visitation, or other restrictions. Defending against the charge protects your current and future parental rights.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law overview. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you have other legal needs, we provide criminal defense and DUI defense in New Kent County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.