Chesapeake Family Law Lawyer — How Can We Protect Your Family’s Future?
Family law matters in Chesapeake, governed by statutes like Va. Code § 20-107.3 for equitable distribution, involve life-changing decisions about divorce, custody, and support. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these sensitive cases. Our approach focuses on protecting your rights and your family’s well-being throughout the legal process in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Virginia Family Law Statutes
Virginia family law covers divorce, child custody, support, and property division. Key statutes include Va. Code § 20-91 for divorce grounds and Va. Code § 20-124.2 for determining the child’s best interests in custody cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive experience to family law cases. Mr. Sris personally contributed to amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 20, Chapter 6 (Domestic Relations) – Official Virginia statutes.
- Chesapeake Circuit Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Handling a Family Law Case in Chesapeake
Family law proceedings in Chesapeake Circuit Court follow specific local rules and timelines. Understanding these procedures can significantly affect the management and outcome of your case.
- File initial pleadings: File a complaint for divorce, custody, or support with the Chesapeake Circuit Court Clerk’s Office. Pay the required filing fee.
- Serve the other party: Ensure the defendant is properly served with the legal papers, as required by Virginia court rules.
- Attend preliminary hearings: Appear for any initial hearings or status conferences scheduled by the court to set the case schedule.
- Complete discovery: Exchange financial documents and other relevant information through the legal discovery process.
- Attempt settlement: Participate in settlement negotiations or mediation to try to resolve issues without a trial.
- Proceed to trial if needed: If settlement fails, present your case at a bench trial before a Chesapeake Circuit Court judge for a final decision.
Potential Outcomes in Family Law Cases
In Chesapeake, family law cases do not carry criminal penalties like incarceration, but court orders for support, custody, and property division have binding legal and financial consequences.
Results may vary. Each family law case depends on unique facts and circumstances.
Our Experience in Family Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled thousands of family law matters across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our firm’s guiding principle is "Global advocacy. Local precision."
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, is a former prosecutor who personally worked on amending Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. This direct involvement with the law provides a deep understanding of its application in Chesapeake courts.
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, desertion, or felony conviction.
How is child custody determined in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake courts decide 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 awarded 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, and certain expenses like health insurance and childcare. The Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court applies these guidelines but can deviate for specific reasons.
What is equitable distribution in a Virginia divorce?
Equitable distribution is the process of dividing marital property and debts. It does not mean equal. Chesapeake Circuit Court judges consider factors like each spouse’s contributions, the length of the marriage, and the economic circumstances of each party.
Family Law Help in Chesapeake
Our Chesapeake location is conveniently accessible for residents throughout the area. We serve clients in Chesapeake and surrounding communities like Great Bridge, Greenbrier, and Hickory.
We are a family law lawyer near Chesapeake City Hall and the Chesapeake Judicial Center.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
[Chesapeake Office Address from GMB_Attributes]
Chesapeake, VA
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Information
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer – Our state practice hub.
- Virginia Beach Family Law Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- Chesapeake Divorce Lawyer – Related practice area in the same city.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
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.