Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Options?
In New Kent County, contempt of court can result in fines or jail time under Va. Code § 20-107.3. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you respond to a show cause order. We have 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Call (888) 437-7747.
What Is Contempt of Court in Virginia?
Contempt of court is a legal finding that a person has willfully disobeyed a court order or shown disrespect to the court. In Virginia, contempt can be civil or criminal. Civil contempt is used to compel compliance with a court order, such as paying child support or following a custody arrangement. Criminal contempt punishes past behavior that disrupted court proceedings or violated a direct court order. The court has broad discretion to hold parties in contempt, and the consequences can include fines, jail time, or both.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code § 8.01-295 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, contempt of court is governed by Va. Code § 8.01-295, which authorizes courts to punish contempt by fine or imprisonment. For family law matters, contempt proceedings often involve violations of child support orders, custody orders, or spousal support orders. The court must find that the violation was willful — meaning the party had the ability to comply but chose not to. A Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County can help you present evidence of your compliance or inability to comply.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 8.01-295 (Contempt of Court) — official Virginia General Assembly
- New Kent County General District Court — official court website
Insider Procedural Edge: How Contempt Cases Work in New Kent County
New Kent County General District Court handles civil contempt matters for family law cases. The court typically sets a show cause hearing within 21-60 days of filing a motion. You must receive personal service of the show cause order before the hearing.
At the hearing, the judge will ask whether you had the ability to comply with the order. Presenting evidence of your financial situation or efforts to comply is critical. The court may order a payment plan instead of jail time if you show good faith efforts.
- Step 1: Receive the show cause order and review the specific allegations of contempt.
- Step 2: Gather evidence of your compliance or inability to comply (pay stubs, medical records, correspondence).
- Step 3: Contact a Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County to prepare your defense.
- Step 4: File a written response with the court explaining your position.
- Step 5: Attend the show cause hearing at New Kent County General District Court, 12001 Courthouse Circle.
- Step 6: Negotiate a payment plan or compliance schedule with the opposing party or the court.
In New Kent County, contempt of court carries potential fines up to $2,500 and jail time up to 12 months for criminal contempt.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt (failure to pay support) | Civil | Up to 12 months (coercive) | Up to $2,500 | None | Wage garnishment, lien on property |
| Criminal Contempt (willful disobedience) | Criminal | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, loss of professional license |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Contempt Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating our deep understanding of family law and court procedure. Our Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County team includes Samantha Rae Powers, who focuses on Virginia family law matters.
Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 total documented case results across all practice areas in New Kent County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law and related matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New Kent County Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Looking for a court order violation lawyer New Kent County or enforcement of court order lawyer New Kent County? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contempt of Court in New Kent County
Can I go to jail for contempt of court in New Kent County?
Yes. Criminal contempt carries up to 12 months in jail. Civil contempt can also result in jail time if you fail to comply with a court order after being given an opportunity to do so.
How do I respond to a show cause order in New Kent County?
It depends. You should contact a Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County immediately. You must file a written response and appear at the hearing. Failure to appear can result in a bench warrant.
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt?
Civil contempt is used to compel compliance with a court order, such as paying child support. Criminal contempt punishes past willful disobedience. Civil contempt can be purged by complying; criminal contempt results in a fixed sentence.
How long does a contempt hearing take in New Kent County?
It depends. A show cause hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of filing the motion. The hearing itself usually lasts 15-30 minutes, but complex cases may require multiple appearances.
Can a contempt finding be appealed?
Yes. You can appeal a contempt finding from New Kent County General District Court to the Circuit Court within 10 days. An appeal stays the enforcement of the contempt order pending the appeal.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer
- Henrico County Family Law Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer
- Criminal Defense Lawyer New Kent County
- DUI Lawyer New Kent County
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.