Paternity Rights Lawyer New Kent County — How to Protect Your Rights as a Father
Establishing paternity is the critical first step to securing your rights as a father in New Kent County. A paternity rights lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you handle this process, which is governed by Virginia law. We have 11 documented case results in New Kent County. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Understanding Paternity Law in Virginia
In Virginia, paternity refers to the legal relationship between a father and his child. Establishing this relationship is essential for a father to obtain custody, visitation rights, and to be responsible for child support. The primary statute governing this area is Va. Code § 20-49.1, which outlines the procedures for establishing paternity, whether voluntarily through an Acknowledgment of Paternity or involuntarily through a court order.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s paternity statutes, refer to Va. Code § 20-49.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the New Kent County General District Court website.
The New Kent County Paternity Process
In New Kent County, paternity cases involving custody and support are typically heard in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court (J&DR Court). The process often begins with filing a Petition to Establish Paternity and for Related Relief. If paternity is disputed, the court may order genetic testing. A father rights lawyer New Kent County can guide you through each step, ensuring your petition is filed correctly and advocating for your desired outcome regarding custody and visitation.
- Consult with a Paternity Attorney: Discuss your goals for custody, visitation, and support.
- File the Petition: Your attorney will file the necessary petition in New Kent County J&DR Court.
- Genetic Testing (if needed): If the mother disputes paternity, the court will order a DNA test.
- Attend Mediation: The court often requires mediation to try to reach an agreement on custody and visitation.
- Court Hearing: If no agreement is reached, a judge will decide paternity, custody, visitation, and support.
- Establish Orders: The court enters final orders establishing legal fatherhood and all related rights and responsibilities.
Why Fathers Need Legal Representation
Without legal establishment of paternity, a father has no enforceable rights to custody or visitation. A paternal rights lawyer New Kent County works to secure those rights from the outset. The court’s determination of custody and visitation is based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. An experienced attorney can present evidence of your relationship with the child, your ability to provide care, and your commitment to being an involved parent, which are all critical factors the court considers.
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
Case Results and Firm Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3). The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. In New Kent County, we have 11 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex family law matters. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving financial analysis.
Contact Our New Kent County Paternity Rights Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County and is accessible via I-64. We provide representation for fathers in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton seeking a paternity rights lawyer near New Kent County.
Paternity Rights in New Kent County: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I establish paternity in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, there are two main ways. First, voluntarily by signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity form, often at the hospital. Second, through a court order filed in New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, which may involve genetic testing if paternity is disputed.
Why should I establish paternity as a father?
Establishing legal paternity grants you the right to seek custody and visitation, ensures your child can inherit from you, and allows your child access to benefits like Social Security and health insurance. It also establishes your responsibility for child support.
Can I get custody if I establish paternity?
It depends. Establishing paternity gives you the legal standing to request custody and visitation. The New Kent County J&DR Court will decide based on the child’s best interests, considering factors like each parent’s role, the child’s relationships, and each parent’s ability to care for the child.
What if the mother does not agree with me being the father?
If the mother disputes your paternity, you must file a petition in court. The judge will almost certainly order genetic (DNA) testing for you, the child, and the mother. The test results are highly accurate and will determine the legal outcome.
How long does a paternity case take in New Kent County?
An uncontested case with a signed Acknowledgment can be processed quickly. A contested case requiring court filings, genetic testing, and hearings typically takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the court’s schedule and whether custody and support issues are also being decided.
Related Legal Services in New Kent County
If you are dealing with paternity issues, you may also need guidance on Virginia family law. For other legal concerns, our firm assists with criminal defense in New Kent County and DUI defense in New Kent County. We also serve fathers in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your paternity rights.