Paternity Rights Lawyer New Kent County — Protecting Your Rights as a Father
Establishing paternity is the critical first step for a father to secure his legal rights to custody, visitation, and decision-making for his child in New Kent County. Under Virginia law, an unmarried father has no automatic rights until paternity is legally established. A paternity rights lawyer New Kent County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Understanding Paternity and Father’s Rights in Virginia
Paternity, or legal fatherhood, is the foundation for all parental rights and responsibilities in Virginia. For unmarried parents, a man is not considered the legal father until paternity is established, which then triggers rights to seek custody, visitation, and an obligation to pay child support. The primary statute governing this area is Va. Code § 20-49.1 et seq. (the Virginia Parentage Act). Establishing paternity can be done voluntarily by signing an Acknowledgment of Paternity form at the hospital or later through the Virginia Department of Social Services, or involuntarily through a court order, which may involve genetic testing.
- Consult with a paternity rights lawyer to understand your legal position and goals.
- Determine the best method to establish paternity: voluntary acknowledgment or court petition.
- If contested, file a Petition to Establish Paternity and for Related Relief in New Kent County J&DR Court.
- Participate in court-ordered genetic testing if the mother disputes paternity.
- Attend the hearing where the court will enter an order of paternity and address temporary custody, visitation, and support.
- Following establishment, work with your attorney to file a separate petition for permanent custody and visitation schedules.
Why You Need a Paternity Rights Lawyer New Kent County
The process of establishing paternity and asserting your rights as a father involves specific legal procedures and deadlines in New Kent County courts. A father rights lawyer New Kent County can ensure your petition is filed correctly, represent you in negotiations or hearings, and advocate for a custody and visitation arrangement that supports your relationship with your child. Without legal representation, you risk missing critical steps or agreeing to orders that do not fully protect your parental rights.
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. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. 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 personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep commitment to shaping family law in the state. Our paternal rights lawyer New Kent County, Samantha Powers, works alongside Mr. Sris to provide dedicated representation for fathers.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, including New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. If you are searching for a paternity rights lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse, contact us for a consultation.
Paternity Rights in New Kent County: Frequently Asked Questions
How does an unmarried father get rights in Virginia?
He must first establish legal paternity. This can be done by signing a voluntary Acknowledgment of Paternity or by a court order. Once paternity is established, the father can then petition the court for custody, visitation, and decision-making authority.
Can a mother deny a father visitation if paternity is established?
It depends. Once a father is established as the legal parent, he has the right to seek a court order for visitation. If the mother denies court-ordered visitation, the father can file a motion for contempt to enforce the order. A father rights lawyer New Kent County can assist with enforcement actions.
What if the mother disputes that I am the father?
If paternity is disputed, you must file a petition in the New Kent County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. The court will typically order genetic (DNA) testing for the child, mother, and alleged father. The test results are highly accurate and will determine the legal outcome.
How long does it take to establish paternity in court?
The timeline varies. An uncontested case with a voluntary acknowledgment can be processed quickly. A contested case requiring genetic testing and a hearing in New Kent County J&DR Court can take several months, depending on the court’s docket and the complexity of the situation.
Does establishing paternity mean I have to pay child support?
Yes. Legal fatherhood establishes both rights and responsibilities. Once paternity is established, either parent can petition the court for a child support order based on the Virginia support guidelines. Support is calculated using both parents’ incomes and other factors.
For more information, see our Virginia Family Law overview. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other legal issues, explore our services as a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.