Paternity Test Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia — What Are Your Legal Rights?
Establishing paternity in Henrico County is a legal process governed by Virginia law, often requiring a court order for DNA paternity testing. A paternity test lawyer Henrico County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides essential guidance through this process, which can affect child custody, support, and inheritance rights. Our firm has documented results in Henrico County family law matters.
Legal Definition of Paternity in Virginia
Paternity, or legal fatherhood, in Virginia is established either voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity or by court order. When paternity is disputed, the court may order genetic testing for paternity. The legal presumption of paternity exists if the parents are married when the child is born or if the father is named on the birth certificate. A contested paternity case is filed in the Henrico County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (J&DR Court).
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s parentage laws, refer to the Virginia Code Title 20, Chapter 6.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court forms and local procedures can be found on the Henrico County J&DR Court website.
Local Process for Paternity Cases in Henrico County
In Henrico County, a petition to establish paternity is filed at the J&DR Court located at 4301 East Parham Road. If the alleged father denies paternity, the court will typically order the mother, child, and alleged father to submit to genetic testing for paternity. A lawyer specializing in DNA paternity testing in Henrico County can handle this process, ensuring testing protocols are followed and results are properly entered into evidence.
- File a “Petition to Establish Paternity and/or Support” with the Henrico J&DR Court clerk.
- Serve the petition on the other party. If they contest paternity, the court will issue an order for genetic testing.
- Complete the court-ordered DNA collection at an approved facility.
- Attend a hearing where the test results are presented. The judge will enter an order of paternity if the probability is 98% or higher.
- The final order establishes legal rights and obligations, including custody, visitation, and child support.
Consequences of a Paternity Determination
In Henrico County, a legal paternity determination establishes a father’s rights to custody and visitation and creates his obligation to pay child support, calculated using Virginia’s guidelines based on both parents’ incomes.
| Legal Action | Primary Purpose | Typical Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Establish Paternity | Create legal father-child relationship | Court order naming legal father |
| Child Support | Secure financial support for child | Monthly support order based on VA guidelines |
| Custody/Visitation | Define parenting time and decision-making | Court-approved custody/visitation schedule |
| Retroactive Support | Address past-due support | Judgment for support owed from date of filing |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Paternity Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. We understand the sensitive nature of paternity cases and provide clear, strategic guidance.
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 and Client Focus
Our firm has a documented record in family law matters. In Henrico County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients in various family cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides oversight on complex matters. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Henrico County Paternity Test Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and Route 250. Seeking a paternity test lawyer near Henrico County? We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a paternity case take in Henrico County, Virginia?
It depends. An uncontested case with a signed Acknowledgment of Paternity can be resolved quickly. A contested case requiring court-ordered DNA paternity testing typically takes 2 to 4 months from filing to a final order, depending on court scheduling and the speed of test results.
Can I get a paternity test without going to court?
Yes. You can obtain a private DNA test, but it is not legally binding for court purposes. For a test to be used in Henrico County J&DR Court to establish legal paternity, it must be ordered by the court or conducted through a state-approved laboratory with a strict chain of custody.
What if the alleged father refuses to take a court-ordered paternity test?
If a party refuses to comply with a court order for genetic testing for paternity, the Henrico County judge may hold them in contempt, which can include fines or jail. The court may also enter a default order establishing paternity based on the refusal.
How much does a court-ordered paternity test cost in Virginia?
The cost for a court-ordered DNA test in Virginia typically ranges from $400 to $600. The court often orders the alleged father to pay the cost if he is contesting paternity. If paternity is established, the cost may be added to a child support order. Fees can vary by lab.
Can paternity be established if the alleged father is deceased?
Yes. Posthumous paternity can be established in Virginia for purposes of inheritance, Social Security benefits, or wrongful death claims. This usually requires genetic material from the alleged father or a close relative and is a complex process best handled by a paternity test lawyer Henrico County.
Related Legal Information
If you are dealing with a paternity matter, you may also need information on Virginia family law. For other legal needs in the area, consider our services for criminal defense in Henrico County or DUI defense. We also serve neighboring areas like Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.