Paternity Test Lawyer New Kent County, VA
When the legal parentage of a child must be established in New Kent County, Virginia, the outcome can affect custody, visitation, child support, inheritance rights, and access to family medical history. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., practicing since 1997, represents clients in paternity proceedings across the Commonwealth. Our Richmond Location serves New Kent County families; we appear in the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (for custody, support, and protective orders) and the New Kent County Circuit Court (for matters tied to a divorce or equitable distribution). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring substantial family law experience to paternity matters. For a consultation on your situation, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Paternity Test Means in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia law under Va. Code § 20‑49.1 and the statutes that follow provides a mechanism to determine a child’s legal father. A paternity test is a genetic or court-ordered analysis that can resolve questions of parentage. In New Kent County, a paternity determination may be pursued by a mother seeking child support, a father who wishes to assert parental rights, or a child through a next friend. The proceeding can be initiated independently in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or, if the parents are already involved in a divorce, within the Circuit Court’s jurisdiction over the divorce action.
New Kent County sits between Richmond and Williamsburg along the I‑64 corridor. The county’s family law docket operates at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. A paternity case often begins with a petition and, when necessary, a court-ordered DNA test. The court may assign a guardian ad litem to represent the child’s interests. Once parentage is legally established, the court can enter orders for custody, visitation, and child support based on Virginia’s statutory guidelines. Experienced counsel can help navigate the procedural steps and ensure the rights of all parties are protected.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Paternity Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach each paternity matter with careful attention to the legal and personal issues involved. Our team begins by evaluating the specific factual situation — whether paternity is contested or undisputed, what existing court orders may be in place, and what the client’s goals are regarding custody, visitation, and financial support. We then guide the client through the petition process, coordination of genetic testing when required, and any related negotiations or hearings.
Throughout the case, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to present clear, well-supported arguments. If a hearing is necessary, we prepare thoroughly, addressing evidentiary requirements and statutory factors under Va. Code § 20‑49.1 et seq. The goal is to reach a resolution that serves the child’s best interests while protecting the client’s parental rights and obligations. Because each family situation is different, our strategy is tailored to the particular circumstances. For questions about how a paternity case might proceed in New Kent County, call (888) 437-7747.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he brings the perspective of both sides of the courtroom to family law matters. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), which addressed equitable distribution procedures. His legislative insight and extensive trial experience inform the firm’s approach to Virginia family law cases.
Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys who collectively contribute over 120 years of combined legal experience and a record of 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle family law matters spanning paternity, divorce, custody, and support. The firm’s Richmond Location enables clients in New Kent County and surrounding communities to access experienced legal guidance without unnecessary travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is paternity established in Virginia?
Paternity may be established in Virginia by a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity signed by both parents, by an administrative order through the Division of Child Support Enforcement, or by a court order after a petition is filed. When the parties dispute parentage, the court can order genetic testing. Once paternity is legally determined, the court may issue orders on custody, visitation, and child support. For guidance in your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Where are paternity cases filed in New Kent County?
Paternity proceedings not attached to a divorce are typically filed in the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. If the parents are already parties to a divorce action, the paternity issue is addressed within the New Kent County Circuit Court. The procedural path depends on the existing family court involvement. Contact the firm to discuss which court has jurisdiction over your matter.
What rights does a father gain after paternity is established?
A legal father gains the right to seek custody and visitation and may be obligated to pay child support. Paternity establishment also gives the child the right to inherit from the father and access to family medical history. The court’s orders are based on the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20‑124.3 (citation verified and registered). Every case is unique, and the specific outcome depends on the facts. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Can a paternity test be challenged in court?
Yes. A party may challenge the results of a genetic test by presenting evidence that the test was improperly administered or that the chain of custody was broken. A party may also contest the admission of test results on other evidentiary grounds. The court evaluates any challenge under the applicable rules of evidence. An experienced family law attorney can help parties understand the strength of any challenge. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a paternity case in New Kent County?
While not required, having a lawyer in a paternity proceeding can help ensure that your rights and the child’s interests are protected. Paternity cases involve court filings, service requirements, and often DNA testing logistics. An attorney can handle those procedural steps and advocate for an outcome aligned with your goals. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team regularly appear in New Kent County courts. For guidance on your specific situation, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Legal Resources
For official legal information on paternity and family law in Virginia, you may consult the following primary sources:
Virginia Code Title 20 (Domestic Relations) ·
New Kent County Combined Courts ·
Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.