Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake — What Are Your Custody Rights?
A Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake helps you establish or modify custody and visitation under Va. Code § 20-124.2. Chesapeake J&DR Court decides parenting time based on the child’s best interests. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Chesapeake.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines parenting time (visitation) under Va. Code § 20-124.2, which requires courts to determine a schedule that serves the child’s best interests. The court evaluates 10 statutory factors including each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse. A Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you present evidence on these factors to the Chesapeake J&DR Court or Circuit Court.
For the full text of Virginia’s custody and visitation statute, see Va. Code § 20-124.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
In Chesapeake J&DR Court, judges typically order a graduated parenting time schedule for young children, starting with short daytime visits and increasing over several months. The court expects parents to submit a proposed parenting plan before the first hearing. A Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake can draft this plan to reflect your specific work schedule and the child’s routine.
- File a petition for custody or visitation at Chesapeake J&DR Court (307 Albemarle Drive).
- Attend mediation orientation — Chesapeake offers court-referred mediation services.
- Complete a parenting education class if ordered by the court.
- Participate in the preliminary hearing where temporary parenting time may be set.
- Present your proposed parenting plan at the merits hearing.
- Receive the final parenting time order from the judge.
In Chesapeake, Virginia, parenting time violations can result in contempt of court with penalties including fines and potential modification of the custody order.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Contempt of court (visitation interference) | Civil contempt | Up to 10 days | Up to $250 | None | Possible custody modification |
| Parental kidnapping | Class 6 felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | 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 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NJ, and NY. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law. A Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake from our firm brings this experience to your parenting time case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Chesapeake, Virginia, 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, DC, NJ, and NY.
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 Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake near the Greenbrier area and Great Bridge can help with your case. 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.
How is parenting time decided in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes. The court decides parenting time based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering 10 factors including each parent’s role and the child’s relationship with each parent.
Can I modify a parenting time order in Chesapeake?
Yes. You can request modification if there has been a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare. File a motion at Chesapeake J&DR Court. The court will reevaluate the best interests factors.
What is a parenting plan in Virginia?
It depends. A parenting plan is a written agreement outlining custody, visitation, and decision-making responsibilities. Virginia courts encourage parents to submit a joint plan. If parents cannot agree, the court will create one.
How long does a parenting time case take in Chesapeake?
It depends. Uncontested cases with an agreed parenting plan can resolve in 2-4 months. Contested cases requiring a Guardian ad Litem and trial may take 6-12 months. Temporary orders are typically issued within 21-60 days.
Do I need a lawyer for a parenting time case in Chesapeake?
Yes. While you can represent yourself, a Parenting Time Lawyer Chesapeake can help you handle court procedures, present evidence effectively, and negotiate a favorable parenting plan. The court’s decisions are binding and long-lasting.
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.
Henrico County Family Law Lawyer | Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer