In Chesapeake, Virginia, divorce is governed by equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake. You need a Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake who understands local court procedures. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia family law defines divorce grounds under Va. Code § 20-91, including no-fault divorce after a 6-month separation (no minor children) or 1-year separation (with minor children). Equitable distribution under Va. Code § 20-107.3 — personally amended by Mr. Sris — governs property division. Child custody follows the best interests standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake can help enforce or modify support orders when a party fails to comply.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Review the official statutes: Va. Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) and the Chesapeake General District Court website for local procedures.
Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorce, equitable distribution, and spousal support matters. Chesapeake J&DR Court handles standalone custody and protective orders. Virginia requires a corroborating witness for uncontested divorce hearings. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake can file a motion for contempt when a party violates court orders.
- File a complaint for divorce or custody at Chesapeake Circuit Court (307 Albemarle Drive).
- Serve the other party with process — sheriff service costs approximately $12.
- Attend pendente lite hearing for temporary support and custody (typically within 21-60 days).
- Participate in mediation if ordered (cost: $100-$300/hour per party).
- Final hearing or trial — uncontested cases resolve in 2-4 months; contested cases take 9-18 months.
In Chesapeake, Virginia, family law violations such as contempt of court can result in fines, jail time, or modification of existing orders.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contempt of Court (Support) | Civil/Criminal | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Wage garnishment, lien on property |
| Violation of Custody Order | Civil | None | Up to $1,000 | None | Custody modification, attorney fees |
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 documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute — a unique credential that sets the firm apart in family law matters. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake from our team brings this depth of experience to your case.
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake from our firm can review your case and explain your options.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake near Greenbrier or Great Bridge can assist you. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. 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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Q: How long does a divorce take in Chesapeake, Virginia?
It depends. Uncontested divorce with signed separation agreement: 2-4 months from filing to final decree. Contested divorce: 9-18 months. Complex equitable distribution with business valuation or retirement assets: 12-24 months. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles all divorces.
Q: How much does a divorce cost in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Circuit Court filing fee for divorce complaint: approximately $86. Sheriff service of process: approximately $12. Private process server: $50-$100. Guardian ad Litem for custody: typically $500-$2,500+. Mediation: $100-$300/hour per party.
Q: Is Virginia a community property state?
No. Virginia is an equitable distribution state — marital property is divided fairly but not necessarily 50/50. The court considers 11 factors under Va. Code § 20-107.3 (personally amended by Mr. Sris). Separate property (pre-marriage, inheritance, gifts) is excluded.
Q: How is child custody decided in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Custody in Chesapeake is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. Chesapeake J&DR Court handles standalone custody.
Q: What are the grounds for divorce in Virginia?
No-fault: 6-month separation (no minor children + signed agreement) or 1-year separation. Fault grounds: adultery (no waiting period), cruelty, desertion (1 year), felony conviction (1+ year imprisonment). Filed at Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Q: What is a contempt of court motion in family law?
A contempt of court motion is filed when one party violates a court order, such as failing to pay child support or denying visitation. A Support Contempt Lawyer Chesapeake can help you file this motion to enforce your rights. The court may impose fines, jail time, or modify the existing order.
Q: How can a court order violation lawyer Chesapeake help me?
A court order violation lawyer Chesapeake can help you file a motion for contempt, gather evidence of the violation, and represent you in court. They can also negotiate a resolution or seek enforcement of the order, including wage garnishment or property liens.
Learn more about Virginia Family Law Lawyer. Compare with Henrico County Family Law Lawyer or Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer. Also see Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.