Contempt Of Court Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Against Court Order Violations
If you are accused of violating a court order in New Kent County, you need a strong defense. A contempt of court charge can lead to fines, jail time, and a permanent record. A contempt of court lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the allegations.
What Is Contempt of Court in Virginia?
Contempt of court is an act of disobedience or disrespect towards a court or its officers. In Virginia family law, this most often means violating a court order for child support, custody, visitation, or spousal support. The court has the power to enforce its orders and punish violations to maintain its authority.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The primary statute governing contempt in Virginia family law matters is Va. Code § 20-112. This statute grants courts the power to punish for contempt in cases involving support, custody, and visitation. For other civil contempt matters, courts rely on their inherent authority and rules of court.
Official Virginia Court Resources
- Va. Code § 20-112 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Court’s power to punish for contempt in family law cases.
- New Kent County Courts Website – Official site for court information and procedures.
New Kent County Contempt Procedures & Defense Strategy
Contempt proceedings in New Kent County can be complex. The process typically begins when one party files a “Rule to Show Cause” or a motion for contempt, alleging the other party violated a specific court order. The accused party must then appear in court to explain why they should not be held in contempt.
- Receive the Show Cause Order: You will be served with legal papers stating the allegations and your court date.
- Consult a Lawyer Immediately: Contact a contempt of court lawyer New Kent County to review the order and build your defense.
- Gather Evidence: Collect proof of compliance, attempts to comply, or reasons for non-compliance (e.g., job loss, medical issues).
- Court Hearing: Present your defense in New Kent County General District Court (J&DR for family matters) or Circuit Court.
- Outcome: The judge will decide if you are in contempt and impose penalties if so, which may include fines, jail, or modified orders.
- Post-Hearing Actions: If found in contempt, you must comply with the court’s judgment. Your lawyer can advise on appeals or modifications.
Potential Penalties for Contempt in New Kent County
In New Kent County, contempt of court can result in fines up to $250, up to 10 days in jail, or both for each violation under Va. Code § 20-112. The court may also order payment of the other party’s attorney’s fees.
| Violation Type | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt (e.g., failure to pay support) | Civil | Up to 10 days or until compliance | Up to $250 | Attorney’s fees, wage garnishment, driver’s license suspension |
| Criminal Contempt (willful disrespect) | Criminal | Up to 10 days | Up to $250 | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Contempt Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In family law, Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia family law. We understand that an enforcement of court order lawyer New Kent County must be both aggressive and strategic. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of success. In New Kent County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients facing various legal challenges. For instance, our team, including experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, has successfully defended clients against contempt allegations by demonstrating lack of willful intent or negotiating compliance plans to avoid severe penalties.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Contempt Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones answered 24/7/365. In-person meetings by appointment only.
Serving New Kent, Providence Forge, Quinton, and surrounding areas.
Our Richmond location is centrally located to serve clients at New Kent County courts. If you need a court order violation lawyer New Kent County, call us anytime for a confidential consultation.
Contempt of Court FAQs for New Kent County
What is the difference between civil and criminal contempt?
Civil contempt aims to force compliance with a court order (like paying child support), and jail time typically ends when you comply. Criminal contempt punishes past disrespect to the court’s authority, with a fixed penalty.
Can I go to jail for not paying child support in New Kent County?
Yes. Failure to pay court-ordered child support is a common reason for contempt. The court can impose jail time to coerce payment. A strong defense often focuses on your inability to pay versus unwillingness.
What should I do if I am served with a Rule to Show Cause for contempt?
It depends. Do not ignore it. Contact a contempt of court lawyer New Kent County immediately. Gather any evidence that shows you tried to comply or could not comply due to circumstances beyond your control, like job loss or illness.
How can a lawyer help me fight a contempt charge?
A lawyer can challenge the sufficiency of the evidence, argue that the violation was not willful, negotiate a purge plan (a way to avoid jail by complying), represent you at the hearing, and work to protect your rights and record.
What if I violated a custody order?
Violating a custody or visitation order can also lead to contempt. Defenses may include emergency circumstances, misunderstanding, or actions taken to protect the child’s safety. An enforcement of court order lawyer New Kent County can present these arguments effectively.
Related Legal Services in New Kent County: If you are dealing with the underlying family law matter, explore our New Kent County family law services. For other issues, see our pages for criminal defense and DUI defense.
More Virginia Help: For a broader overview, visit our Virginia family law hub. Residents in nearby areas can consult our Henrico County family lawyers or Chesterfield County family lawyers.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your contempt of court case in New Kent County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.