In Colonial Heights, contempt of court carries potential jail time and fines under Va. Code § 20-107.3; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented case results in Colonial Heights. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights can help you respond to a court order violation.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Contempt of court in Virginia is defined as any act that disobeys, disrespects, or obstructs the authority or dignity of a court. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3, which Mr. Sris personally amended, contempt can be civil (coercive, to compel compliance with a court order) or criminal (punitive, to punish past disobedience). A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights understands these distinctions. The Colonial Heights General District Court handles contempt proceedings for violations of family law orders, including child support, custody, and spousal support. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience.
For contempt of court specifically, the primary statute is Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution — personally amended by Mr. Sris) and Va. Code § 20-124.2 (custody best interests). Contempt proceedings enforce these court orders when a party fails to comply. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights uses these statutes to build your case.
For official legal references, consult: Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
- File a motion for show cause at Colonial Heights General District Court.
- Serve the opposing party with the motion and notice of hearing.
- Attend the show-cause hearing; present evidence of the violation.
- The court determines if contempt occurred and sets a purge amount or penalty.
- If found in contempt, comply with the court’s order to avoid further sanctions.
A court order violation lawyer Colonial Heights can guide you through each step. An enforcement of court order lawyer Colonial Heights ensures your rights are protected.
In Colonial Heights, contempt of court carries potential jail time up to 12 months and fines up to $2,500 for criminal contempt, plus possible attorney fees and costs.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Contempt | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Attorney fees, court costs, possible probation |
| Civil Contempt | Not a criminal charge | Until compliance (purge) | None (but may owe arrears) | None | Wage garnishment, property liens, driver’s license suspension |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
In Colonial Heights, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 total documented case results across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These include dismissals and reductions in traffic and family law matters. Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights results are part of this record.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location is approximately 20 minutes from Colonial Heights General District Court, accessible via I-95 and Route 1. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights near Southpark Mall and the Colonial Heights Courthouse on Boulevard. Serving Colonial Heights. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Can I go to jail for contempt of court in Colonial Heights?
Yes. Criminal contempt in Colonial Heights can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Civil contempt may lead to incarceration until you comply with the court order. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights can help you avoid jail time.
How do I file a contempt motion in Colonial Heights?
File a motion for show cause at the Colonial Heights General District Court, located at 550 Boulevard. You must serve the opposing party with the motion and notice of hearing. A court order violation lawyer Colonial Heights can assist with the filing process.
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt?
Civil contempt is coercive — you can avoid jail by complying with the court order. Criminal contempt is punitive — it punishes past disobedience. Both can result in jail time. An enforcement of court order lawyer Colonial Heights can explain which applies to your case.
How long does a contempt case take in Colonial Heights?
A show-cause hearing is typically set within 21 to 60 days of filing the motion. The court may issue a temporary order immediately. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer Colonial Heights can help expedite the process.
Can I be held in contempt for not paying child support?
Yes. Failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in civil contempt. The court may order wage garnishment, property liens, or jail until you pay the arrears. A court order violation lawyer Colonial Heights can help you address the arrears.
Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.