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 in the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. Our firm, founded in 1997, uses a case-specific approach to handle the details of your family’s legal needs.
You need a lawyer who understands the local court procedures and can work toward a resolution that protects your interests and your family’s future.
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 for custody), and Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution of marital property). 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
Official Legal Resources
Handling a Family Law Case in Chesapeake
The Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles most initial family law filings, including custody, visitation, and child support. For divorce and equitable distribution, cases may originate there or move to the Chesapeake Circuit Court.
- File a petition: File the appropriate petition (for divorce, custody, support, etc.) with the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court clerk’s office and pay the filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Ensure the other party is formally served with the court documents according to Virginia rules of civil procedure.
- Attend intake or mediation: The court may require an intake session or refer your case to mediation to attempt to reach an agreement on contested issues.
- Exchange financial disclosures: Complete and exchange detailed financial disclosures, which are required in all support and property division cases.
- Prepare for and attend hearings: Prepare evidence, witness lists, and legal arguments for any scheduled hearings before a judge or commissioner.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Chesapeake, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties like jail time, but court orders for support, custody, and property division have significant legal and financial consequences.
Results may vary based on the specific facts of each case. A family law attorney can explain how the statutory factors apply to your situation.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Mr. Sris personally contributed to the amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
Virginia recognizes both fault and no-fault grounds. 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, desertion, and felony conviction.
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 relationship with each parent, and the child’s own reasonable preference if they are mature enough.
What is the difference between legal and physical custody?
Legal custody involves the right to make major decisions about the child’s health, education, and welfare. Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Both can be shared (joint) or granted primarily to one parent (sole).
How is child support calculated in Virginia?
Virginia uses statutory guidelines based on both parents’ gross incomes, the number of children, work-related childcare costs, and health insurance premiums. The court can deviate from the guideline amount for specific, documented reasons.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the process of dividing marital property and debts. The court classifies assets as marital or separate and then divides marital property fairly, though not necessarily equally, based on factors in Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Family Law Help in Chesapeake
Our firm serves clients in Chesapeake and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings at our Virginia location are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Related Legal Information
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.