In Chesapeake, Virginia, joint custody decisions follow the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake. A Joint Custody Lawyer Chesapeake can help you pursue a shared parenting plan that protects your relationship with your child.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines joint custody as both parents sharing decision-making authority and physical custody of their child. Under Va. Code § 20-124.3, the court considers 10 factors to determine the best interests of the child. A shared custody arrangement lawyer Chesapeake can explain how these factors apply to your specific situation. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law.
For the full text of Virginia’s custody statute, see Va. Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody cases. The court typically orders mediation before a contested custody hearing. A joint legal and physical custody lawyer Chesapeake can prepare you for what to expect.
- File a petition for custody at Chesapeake J&DR Court (307 Albemarle Drive).
- Attend mediation orientation — the court requires this before scheduling a hearing.
- Complete mediation sessions with a court-approved mediator.
- If mediation fails, request a contested hearing before the judge.
- Present evidence on the 10 best-interest factors at your hearing.
- Receive the court’s custody order — joint or sole, with a parenting time schedule.
In Chesapeake, Virginia, custody determinations are based on the best interests of the child. There is no criminal penalty for seeking custody, but violating a custody order can result in contempt of court.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome | Court Involvement | Timeline | Additional Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joint Legal Custody | Both parents share decision-making | Co-parenting plan ordered | J&DR Court | 2-6 months | Requires parental cooperation |
| Joint Physical Custody | Child spends significant time with both parents | Shared parenting schedule | J&DR Court | 3-8 months | School and activity logistics |
| Sole Custody | One parent has primary decision-making | Limited visitation for other parent | J&DR Court | 4-12 months | Requires showing unfitness |
| Custody Modification | Material change in circumstances | Revised custody order | J&DR Court | 3-6 months | Must show significant change |
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 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s deep involvement in Virginia family law. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris, firm founder and former prosecutor, also handles complex family law matters in Chesapeake. He personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 and has over 25 years of experience across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Chesapeake, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented 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 serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. A joint custody lawyer near Chesapeake can meet with you by appointment. 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.
What is joint custody in Virginia?
Yes. Virginia law defines joint custody as both parents sharing decision-making authority and physical custody. The court considers 10 factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3 to determine if joint custody serves the child’s best interests.
How long does a custody case take in Chesapeake?
It depends. Uncontested joint custody cases can resolve in 2-4 months. Contested cases with mediation and hearings typically take 6-12 months. Complex cases involving Guardian ad Litem or psychological evaluations may take 12-18 months.
Can I modify a joint custody order in Chesapeake?
Yes. You must show a material change in circumstances since the last order. Common changes include relocation, changes in the child’s needs, or concerns about the other parent’s fitness. File your motion at Chesapeake J&DR Court.
What factors does the court consider for joint custody?
The court considers 10 factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3, including each parent’s role in the child’s life, the child’s relationship with each parent, the child’s age and needs, and any history of abuse or neglect.
Is mediation required for custody in Chesapeake?
Yes. Chesapeake J&DR Court requires mediation orientation before scheduling a contested custody hearing. The court may order mediation to help parents reach an agreement. If mediation fails, the case proceeds to a hearing before the judge.
For more information, visit our Virginia family law lawyer page.
We also serve clients in Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
If you need representation for other legal matters, see our Chesapeake criminal defense lawyer page.
Learn more about our attorneys: Bryan Block.
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.