A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer New Kent County helps you change court orders for custody, support, or property. Virginia law requires a material change in circumstances under Va. Code § 20-107.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 documented results in New Kent County. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
What Is a Divorce Decree Modification?
A divorce decree modification changes the terms of your final divorce order. Under Va. Code § 20-107.3, the court can modify spousal support, child support, custody, and property division when circumstances have materially changed since the original decree. The party requesting the modification must prove the change is substantial and was not anticipated at the time of the original order. New Kent County Circuit Court handles all modification petitions. The court evaluates each request based on the specific facts of your case.
Statutory Authority for Modifications
Virginia law provides specific grounds for modifying divorce decrees. Va. Code § 20-107.3 governs equitable distribution modifications. Va. Code § 20-108.1 covers child support modifications. Va. Code § 20-124.2 addresses custody modifications. Each statute requires a material change in circumstances. The court considers the best interests of the child for custody matters. For spousal support, the court examines financial changes since the original decree. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer New Kent County can explain which statute applies to your situation.
External Citation Links
Va. Code § 20-107.3 (official Virginia General Assembly) — governs equitable distribution modifications.
New Kent County General District Court website — official court information.
Insider Procedural Edge
New Kent County Circuit Court requires a written motion detailing the material change in circumstances. The court sets a hearing date within 60-90 days of filing. You must serve the other party with the motion and supporting documents.
- Gather documentation proving the material change in circumstances.
- File a motion to modify with New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Serve the other party with the motion and supporting documents.
- Attend the hearing and present your evidence to the judge.
- Receive the court’s order modifying the original decree.
Penalty Table
In New Kent County, failing to comply with a divorce decree can result in contempt of court, fines, and potential jail time.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Failure to pay child support | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension possible | Wage garnishment, tax refund intercept |
| Failure to pay spousal support | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Wage garnishment, property liens |
| Violation of custody order | Civil contempt | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Custody modification possible |
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 firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute that governs property division modifications in Virginia. This amendment directly impacts how New Kent County courts handle divorce decree modifications. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 11 total documented case results across all practice areas in New Kent County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable settlements in family law matters.
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, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Family law lawyer near New Kent County — near Colonial Downs Racetrack and the historic New Kent County Courthouse.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I modify my divorce decree in New Kent County?
Yes. You can modify your divorce decree if you prove a material change in circumstances since the original order. New Kent County Circuit Court handles modification petitions. The change must be substantial and not anticipated at the time of the original decree.
How long does a divorce decree modification take in New Kent County?
It depends. Uncontested modifications with agreement from both parties take 2-4 months. Contested modifications requiring a hearing take 6-12 months. Complex cases involving business valuation or retirement assets take longer.
What qualifies as a material change in circumstances?
A material change includes job loss, significant income change, relocation, health issues, or changes in the child’s needs. The court evaluates each case individually. The change must be substantial and not anticipated at the time of the original decree.
Do I need a lawyer to modify my divorce decree?
Yes. Virginia law requires proper legal procedures for modification petitions. A Divorce Decree Modification Lawyer New Kent County ensures your motion meets court requirements and presents the strongest case for your requested changes.
Can I modify child support without going to court?
No. Child support modifications require court approval in Virginia. You and the other parent can agree on a new amount, but the court must enter an order. A modify divorce order lawyer New Kent County can help you file the necessary paperwork.
What is the cost to modify a divorce decree in New Kent County?
Circuit Court filing fee for a modification motion is approximately $86. Sheriff service of process costs about $12. Attorney fees vary based on complexity. Mediation costs $100-$300 per hour per party if required.
Can I change the terms of my property division?
It depends. Property division modifications are difficult to obtain. You must prove fraud, mistake, or a material change in circumstances. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, which governs equitable distribution modifications in Virginia.
How do I enforce a divorce decree modification?
You can file a motion for contempt if the other party violates the modified order. The court can impose fines, jail time, or wage garnishment. A change divorce terms lawyer New Kent County can help you enforce your rights.
Internal Links
Virginia Divorce & Family Law Lawyer
Henrico County Divorce & Family Law Lawyer
Chesterfield County Divorce & Family Law Lawyer
New Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer
New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer
Samantha Powers — Family Law Attorney
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.