Chesapeake Paternity Test Lawyer — What Are Your Legal Rights?
Establishing paternity in Chesapeake is a legal process governed by Virginia law, often requiring a court-ordered DNA test. A paternity test lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can guide you through this critical step, whether you are a mother seeking child support or a father asserting parental rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Paternity establishment is the legal determination of a child’s father. In Virginia, this is primarily governed by the Virginia Parentage Act (Va. Code § 20-49.1 et seq.). A legal finding of paternity creates rights and responsibilities, including child support, custody, visitation, and inheritance. The process often begins with a petition filed in the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or Chesapeake Circuit Court.
When genetic testing for paternity is ordered, it is typically performed by an accredited laboratory. The results are admissible in court. A DNA paternity testing lawyer Chesapeake can help ensure the testing process is handled correctly and that your rights are protected throughout the legal proceedings.
- File a Petition: A petition to establish paternity is filed with the Chesapeake Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
- Court Order: The judge may issue an order for the alleged father, mother, and child to submit to genetic testing.
- Testing: DNA samples are collected by an approved facility.
- Results & Hearing: The test results are submitted to the court. A hearing is held to adjudicate paternity based on the evidence.
- Final Order: The court enters an order of paternity, which can then be used to establish support, custody, and visitation.
In Chesapeake, establishing paternity is a legal prerequisite for child support and formal custody orders under Virginia law.
| Action | Legal Basis | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Establish Paternity | Va. Code § 20-49.1 | Legal father-child relationship |
| Request Genetic Testing | Va. Code § 20-49.8 | Court-ordered DNA test |
| Seek Child Support | Va. Code § 20-108.1 | Support order based on income |
| Petition for Custody/Visitation | Va. Code § 20-124.1 | Parenting plan and schedule |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to family law matters. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating deep involvement in shaping state 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 documented case results across Virginia. In family law matters, our approach involves thorough case analysis and strategic planning. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides oversight on complex cases, leveraging his experience as a former prosecutor and his background in accounting and information systems.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients with matters in Chesapeake courts. We represent clients in Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. For a paternity test lawyer near Chesapeake, contact us to schedule a consultation.
Paternity Test Lawyer Chesapeake FAQ
Can a mother be forced to take a paternity test in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 20-49.8, the court can order the mother, child, and alleged father to submit to genetic testing when paternity is at issue in a legal proceeding.
How accurate are court-ordered DNA paternity tests?
It depends on the accredited lab used, but modern genetic testing for paternity is typically over 99.9% accurate for inclusion and 100% for exclusion. Courts accept results from state-approved facilities.
How long does it take to get paternity test results in a court case?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks from sample collection. The timeline depends on the lab, court scheduling for submitting results, and whether any legal challenges to the testing process arise.
Can I get a paternity test without going to court?
Yes, through a voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity form filed with the Virginia Department of Health. However, for legal enforcement of rights like custody or support, a court order is often necessary.
What if the alleged father refuses a court-ordered DNA test?
The court may enter an order of paternity against him by default. Refusal can be used as evidence against his position, and he may be held in contempt.
For more information on court procedures, visit the Virginia Courts website. If you need a paternity test lawyer Chesapeake, our team is ready to assist. We also handle related matters like divorce in Henrico County and Chesapeake criminal defense. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia Family Law hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.