A Custody Contempt Lawyer New Kent County helps enforce court-ordered parenting time and support. Under Va. Code § 20-124.3, willful violation of a custody order can result in fines, jail time, or modification of the existing order. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented case results in New Kent County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
In Virginia, contempt of a custody order occurs when a parent or guardian willfully disobeys a court-ordered custody, visitation, or child support arrangement. The court has the authority to enforce its orders through civil or criminal contempt proceedings. A custody order violation lawyer New Kent County can explain the difference between civil contempt (designed to compel compliance) and criminal contempt (punitive in nature). The burden is on the party alleging contempt to prove the violation occurred by clear and convincing evidence.
For more information, review the Virginia Code § 20-124.3 (best interests of the child) and the New Kent County General District Court website.
- Document every instance of the custody order violation, including dates, times, and any communication.
- File a motion for show cause with the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle.
- Attend the initial hearing where the judge will determine if there is probable cause for contempt.
- Present your evidence at the contempt hearing, including witness testimony and documented logs.
- Await the court’s ruling, which may include enforcement, modification, or sanctions against the violating party.
In New Kent County, contempt of a custody order can result in fines up to $2,500, jail time up to 12 months, or modification of the existing custody arrangement.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt (Failure to comply with custody order) | Civil | Up to 12 months (coercive) | Up to $2,500 | None | Court may modify custody order; attorney fees may be awarded |
| Criminal Contempt (Willful disobedience) | Criminal | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; potential loss of custody rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s deep involvement in Virginia family law. Our team includes attorneys with backgrounds as former prosecutors and law enforcement officers, providing unique insight into courtroom strategy.
In New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location is approximately 30 minutes from New Kent County General District Court, accessible via I-64 and Route 33.
Searching for a custody order violation lawyer New Kent County near you? We serve clients near the New Kent County Courthouse and Colonial Downs Racetrack.
We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Can I go to jail for violating a custody order in New Kent County?
Yes. Willful violation of a custody order can result in criminal contempt charges, carrying up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500. The court may also modify the existing custody arrangement.
How do I file a contempt motion in New Kent County?
You file a motion for show cause at the New Kent County General District Court, 12001 Courthouse Circle. The filing fee is approximately $86. You must provide evidence of the violation, such as documented missed visitation or denied parenting time.
What evidence do I need for a custody contempt case?
You need documented proof of the violation, including dates, times, communication records (texts, emails), witness statements, and any court orders. A detailed log of missed visitation or denied parenting time is essential.
Can a custody order be modified after a contempt finding?
Yes. If the court finds a party in contempt, it may modify the existing custody order to prevent future violations. This could include changing the parenting schedule or transferring custody to the compliant parent.
How long does a contempt case take in New Kent County?
It depends. A show cause hearing is typically set within 21-60 days of filing the motion. The full contempt case, including any evidentiary hearings, can take 2-6 months depending on the complexity and court schedule.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.