Custody Contempt Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defenses?
If you are accused of violating a custody order in New Kent County, you face serious penalties, including fines, jail time, and loss of custody rights. A custody contempt lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Violating a court-ordered custody or visitation schedule is a serious matter in Virginia. The court can hold you in contempt for failing to follow the terms of a custody order. This is governed by Virginia law, specifically statutes addressing the enforcement of court orders. A custody contempt lawyer New Kent County understands that these cases are heard in the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The consequences of a finding of contempt can be severe, impacting your parental rights and freedom.
For the official Virginia code on contempt powers, see Va. Code § 18.2-456 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the New Kent County Courts website.
- Receive a Rule to Show Cause or Motion for Contempt from the other parent.
- File a written response with the New Kent County J&DR Court by the deadline.
- Attend the contempt hearing with your custody order violation lawyer New Kent County.
- Present evidence and testimony to explain the alleged violation.
- The judge will decide if contempt is found and impose any penalties.
- If found in contempt, you may need to comply with specific conditions to purge the contempt.
In New Kent County, contempt of a custody order can result in fines up to $250, up to 10 days in jail, modification of the custody order, and an award of attorney’s fees to the other party.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Civil Contempt (to compel compliance) | Civil | Until you comply (purge) | Court costs | Must pay other party’s fees, modify custody |
| Criminal Contempt (to punish) | Criminal | Up to 10 days | Up to $250 | Jail time, permanent record |
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. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In family law matters, our deep understanding of Virginia statutes is key. Mr. Sris personally played a role in amending Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a commitment to shaping family law.
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
Our firm has achieved 11 documented case results in New Kent County across all practice areas. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In one case, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder—successfully argued against a contempt finding by demonstrating our client’s actions were due to a legitimate emergency, skilled the judge to dismiss the motion.
Contact Our New Kent County Custody Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. If you need a custody order violation lawyer New Kent County or a contempt of custody order lawyer New Kent County, we are here to help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
FAQs: Custody Contempt in New Kent County
What happens if I miss my custody time in New Kent County?
The other parent can file a Motion for Rule to Show Cause for contempt. You will have to go to New Kent County J&DR Court to explain why you violated the order. A valid reason, like a child’s illness, may be a defense.
Can I go to jail for custody contempt in Virginia?
Yes. For criminal contempt, a judge can impose up to 10 days in jail and a fine up to $250. For civil contempt, you can be jailed until you comply with the court’s order (e.g., make up missed visitation).
What should I do if I am served with a contempt motion?
Contact a custody contempt lawyer New Kent County immediately. Do not ignore the court date. You must file a written answer. Your lawyer can help you gather evidence, such as texts, emails, or medical records, to explain your side.
Can a contempt finding affect my custody rights?
Yes. A judge who finds you in contempt may decide you are not following the order in good faith. This can lead to a modification of the custody order, potentially reducing your time with your child.
What are common defenses to a custody contempt charge?
Defenses include: the other parent agreed to the change, you had a legitimate safety concern, there was a true emergency, the order was unclear, or you made a good-faith effort to comply but could not.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you have other legal needs in New Kent County, consider our criminal defense or DUI defense services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.