Third Party Custody Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Rights as a Custodian?
A Third Party Custody Lawyer New Kent County helps grandparents, relatives, and other non-parents seek custody. Under Va. Code § 20-124.2, the court prioritizes the child’s best interests. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Contact us for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Statutory Definition for Third Party Custody in Virginia
Virginia law allows a non-parent custody petition lawyer New Kent County to file for custody under Va. Code § 20-124.2. This statute establishes that the court’s primary consideration is the best interests of the child. A third party custodian rights lawyer New Kent County can help you understand the 10 factors the court weighs, including the child’s relationship with each party and the willingness to support a positive relationship with the parents.
External Citation Links
For more information on Virginia’s custody laws, review the official statute: Va. Code § 20-124.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). You can also visit the New Kent County General District Court website for local procedures.
Insider Procedural Edge for New Kent County
In New Kent County, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles standalone custody petitions. The court expects a detailed affidavit explaining why the child’s parents are unfit or unable to care for the child.
- File a petition for custody at the New Kent County J&DR Court.
- Serve the child’s parents with the petition and summons.
- Attend the preliminary hearing where the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem.
- Participate in mediation if ordered by the court.
- Present evidence at the final hearing showing why custody is in the child’s best interests.
Penalty Table and Case Considerations
In New Kent County, a third-party custody case involves no criminal penalties, but the court can award custody, visitation, and child support.
| Issue | Legal Standard | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Custody | Best interests of the child (Va. Code § 20-124.2) | Joint or sole custody to third party |
| Visitation | Best interests of the child | Court-ordered visitation schedule |
| Child Support | Virginia child support guidelines | Support order from parents to custodian |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority Block
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 firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia family law.
Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 total documented case results in New Kent County across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Pack Trigger Block
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 60. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. A Third Party Custody Lawyer New Kent County is available near you.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a grandparent file for custody in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. A grandparent can file for custody as a third party. The court uses the best interests of the child standard under Va. Code § 20-124.2.
How long does a third-party custody case take in New Kent County?
It depends. Uncontested cases may resolve in 2-4 months. Contested cases with a Guardian ad Litem and mediation can take 9-18 months.
What is the filing fee for a custody petition in New Kent County?
The Circuit Court filing fee for a divorce complaint is approximately $86. Additional costs include sheriff service ($12) and Guardian ad Litem fees ($500-$2,500+).
Is mediation required for third-party custody in New Kent County?
It depends. Mediation is available but not mandatory in Virginia. The court may order mediation if it believes it could help resolve the dispute.
What factors does the court consider for third-party custody?
The court considers 10 factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3, including the child’s relationship with each party, each party’s ability to care for the child, and any history of abuse.
Internal Links
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.