Joint Custody Lawyer New Kent County, VA
When parents in New Kent County separate or divorce, decisions about their children’s upbringing touch every part of daily life. Joint custody is one arrangement Virginia courts consider when both parents seek an ongoing role in raising their child. The court’s focus, under Virginia law, is the best interests of the child—weighing relationships, stability, and each parent’s willingness to cooperate. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrate their practice on family law matters, including custody disputes, in New Kent County. From the first consultation through resolution, they work to present a clear position that aligns with the statutory factors the court will examine. Because no two families are alike, the approach is tailored to the specific facts of your situation—whether you are petitioning for joint custody for the first time, responding to a motion filed by the other parent, or seeking a modification of an existing order. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your joint custody matter. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Joint Custody Means in New Kent County
Joint custody in Virginia is not defined by a fixed schedule. It is a legal arrangement in which both parents share responsibility for the child’s care and upbringing. Virginia Code § 20‑124.2 directs the court to determine custody based on the best interests of the child, and § 20‑124.3 lists ten factors the court shall consider. These factors include the age and physical and mental condition of the child and each parent, the existing relationship between the child and each parent, the needs of the child, and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. Joint legal custody means both parents make major decisions together; joint physical custody means the child resides with each parent for significant periods.
In New Kent County, families bring custody matters before the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court when no divorce is pending, or before the Circuit Court when custody is part of a divorce or equitable distribution proceeding. The New Kent County courts sit at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, Virginia, and are part of the Ninth Judicial District. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with local practice and regularly appear in both the J&DR and Circuit Courts on custody matters. The court may order an investigation, appoint a guardian ad litem, or direct the parties to mediation. While mediation is available, it is not mandatory in Virginia. A custody order entered in New Kent County remains subject to future modification if there is a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Joint Custody Cases
Joint custody disputes often arise in a climate of heightened emotion. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each case by first listening to the parent’s goals and gathering the facts that matter under the statutory factors. They review existing custody orders or parenting plans, school and medical records, and any evidence of each parent’s involvement. The team then develops a strategy that may include negotiations between counsel, mediation, or contested hearings. In every avenue, the aim is to present the court with a factual record that supports the client’s request while respecting the statutory emphasis on the child’s best interests.
Because Virginia courts maintain broad discretion in custody decisions, thorough preparation is critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are experienced in examining the ten statutory factors and marshaling testimony and documents that shed light on each one. If a guardian ad litem is appointed, the team works cooperatively with the ad litem while still protecting the parent’s position. When a case proceeds to trial, they present evidence through witness testimony, cross‑examination, and legal argument. The length of a custody proceeding depends on the court’s calendar, the complexity of the issues, and whether the parties are able to reach agreement. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to resolve matters as efficiently as the situation permits, always mindful of the emotional and financial toll of protracted litigation.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997. A former prosecutor, he draws on his trial experience to prepare custody cases for the courtroom. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His familiarity with the legislative process enhances his understanding of the statutes that govern custody and family law in Virginia.
Mr. Sris is supported by an Of Counsel team that brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since 1997. In joint custody matters, the team applies a comprehensive, research‑backed approach informed by decades of courtroom appearances in Virginia. The Richmond location, at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225, is available by appointment. Call (804) 201‑9009 or the toll‑free line (888) 437‑7747 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is joint custody in Virginia?
Joint custody means both parents share authority and responsibility for the child. Virginia law recognizes two components: joint legal custody, where parents make major decisions together, and joint physical custody, where the child lives with each parent for substantial periods. The court may award joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both, depending on the best interests of the child. A parenting plan outlines the schedule and decision‑making framework. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
How does a Virginia court decide joint custody?
The court evaluates ten statutory factors under Va. Code § 20‑124.3 to determine what arrangement serves the child’s best interests. These factors include the child’s age and health, each parent’s physical and mental condition, the existing parent‑child relationship, the child’s needs, and each parent’s willingness to support the other parent’s relationship with the child. The court may also consider the child’s reasonable preference and any history of abuse. No single factor controls the outcome. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a joint custody case in New Kent County?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but understanding the statutory factors and procedural rules can be challenging without legal training. A lawyer can help you gather and present evidence, negotiate a parenting plan, and cross‑examine witnesses at a hearing. In New Kent County, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court or Circuit Court will expect you to follow the rules of evidence and procedure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have appeared in these courts for many years and can guide you through the process. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.
Can joint custody be modified after a court order is entered?
Yes, a parent may seek modification if there has been a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s welfare. Common grounds include a parent’s relocation, a change in a parent’s work schedule, or concerns about the child’s safety or development. The party seeking modification must file a motion and present evidence of the changed circumstances. The court will again evaluate the best interests factors. Because the standard is demanding, thorough preparation is essential. To discuss whether your situation qualifies, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
What are the steps to request joint custody in New Kent County?
The parent files a petition with the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or as part of a divorce complaint in Circuit Court. After filing, the court will schedule a hearing and may order mediation or an investigation. Both parents will have an opportunity to present evidence. The court may issue a temporary order while the case is pending. If the parents reach an agreement, it can be submitted for the court’s approval. To learn more about the filing process, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Related local family law pages: Fairfax County family law · Prince William County family law · Manassas family law
Additional resources: Virginia Code Title 20 – Domestic Relations · New Kent County Courts
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.