Parenting Time Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

Parenting time—sometimes called visitation—is one of the most sensitive aspects of any family law case. When parents separate, determining a schedule that works for the child while respecting each parent’s role requires a detailed understanding of Virginia law and the practices of the local courts. In Virginia Beach, parenting time disputes are resolved in the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court for standalone custody matters, or in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court when the case is part of a divorce or equitable distribution proceeding. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., practicing since 1997, represents parents throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and the surrounding Hampton Roads communities in parenting time negotiations, modifications, and enforcement actions. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, leads a team that concentrates in family law and handles these cases with a practical, child-focused approach. To discuss your parenting time matter, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Parenting Time Means in Virginia Beach

Parenting time is the schedule and structure under which a noncustodial parent spends time with the child, as well as the allocation of holidays, summers, and school breaks. In Virginia, custody and parenting time decisions are governed by the trusted-interests-of-the-child standard set out in Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers ten statutory factors—including each parent’s role in the child’s life, the child’s relationship with siblings and extended family, the ability of each parent to support contact with the other parent, and any history of family abuse—when crafting a parenting plan. Because Virginia Beach is an independent city within the Fourth Judicial District, family law matters are heard at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. The Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles standalone custody, visitation, and protective order cases, while the Circuit Court retains exclusive jurisdiction over divorce-related custody and equitable distribution. Local judges have broad discretion to establish parenting time schedules that match the specific needs of the child and the family’s circumstances, so presenting a complete, organized case is essential.

Virginia is an equitable distribution state, which means parenting time is evaluated independently of how marital property is divided. However, the practical logistics of parenting time—such as where each parent lives, work schedules, and school locations—are examined closely. Many Virginia Beach parenting time orders include a standard alternating-weekend schedule with midweek evening visits, but the court may impose supervised visitation if there are concerns about a parent’s fitness. Parents in Sandbridge, Oceana, and the broader Virginia Beach area should understand that Virginia courts generally favor arrangements that allow both parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with the child, unless circumstances warrant a restriction. If you believe your existing parenting time arrangement no longer reflects your child’s needs, or if you are seeking an initial order, it is important to act under the applicable Virginia statutes and with an understanding of local court practices.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Parenting Time Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach parenting time matters by first identifying the client’s goals—whether that means securing a fair share of time with the child, modifying an existing schedule due to relocation or changed circumstances, or enforcing a court order that the other parent is violating. The team then builds a factual record that supports the requested schedule, gathering school records, activity calendars, communication logs, and, where appropriate, third-party testimony. In Virginia Beach, the courts often rely on detailed proposed parenting plans, so the attorneys prepare a comprehensive plan that addresses holidays, summer vacations, transportation, and decision-making authority.

When negotiation fails, the team is prepared to litigate. They are familiar with the procedural expectations of the Virginia Beach Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court and the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, and they know how to present evidence effectively in both forums. Whether the case involves a simple modification or a highly contested custody dispute with cross-allegations, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel focus on the child’s best interests and work to achieve a resolution that serves the family’s long-term stability. Throughout the process, they keep clients informed about deadlines, court dates, and the practical implications of each procedural step.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a measure that revised the equitable distribution statute. His familiarity with Virginia family law and his experience analyzing the opposing side’s position from his prosecutorial background inform the way he handles parenting time disputes. He leads a team of Of Counsel attorneys who concentrate in family law and who bring their own significant legal experience to each case. Collectively, the firm has represented clients in a wide range of family law matters across the Commonwealth. The firm’s Richmond location serves clients in Virginia Beach and throughout Hampton Roads, and consultations are available by appointment. Reach us at (888) 437-7747 to speak with Mr. Sris or a member of his team.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is parenting time in Virginia?

Parenting time is the schedule that determines when each parent has physical custody of the child and how holidays, vacations, and school breaks are divided. Virginia courts issue parenting time orders as part of custody determinations under the trusted-interests-of-the-child standard in Va. Code § 20-124.3. The order specifies the dates and times the noncustodial parent will spend with the child and may include provisions for transportation, communication, and decision-making. Parenting time can be established in an initial custody proceeding, a divorce, or a separate petition for visitation if paternity has been established.

How does a Virginia Beach court decide parenting time?

The Virginia Beach court applies the ten best-interests factors listed in Va. Code § 20-124.3 to fashion a parenting time schedule that serves the child’s welfare. The judge will consider each parent’s relationship with the child, the child’s needs, the ability of each parent to support the child’s relationship with the other parent, and any history of abuse. The court may also consider the child’s preference if the child is of sufficient age and maturity. In Virginia Beach, the judge has broad discretion to order a schedule that deviates from a standard alternate-weekend arrangement if the facts warrant it.

Can a parenting time order be modified?

Yes, a parent may petition to modify parenting time when there has been a material change in circumstances since the last order. Common reasons for modification include a parent’s relocation, a change in the child’s school or activity schedule, or a parent’s inability to comply with the existing order. The petition is filed in the court that issued the original order. The parent requesting the change must show that the proposed modification serves the child’s best interests. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can help assess whether the facts support a modification and present the evidence to the Virginia Beach court.

What happens if the other parent violates the parenting time order?

If a parent repeatedly violates a court-ordered parenting schedule, the other parent can file a motion for enforcement or contempt in the Virginia Beach court. The court may impose remedies such as makeup parenting time, fines, or, in serious cases, a change in custody. It is important to document each violation—text messages, emails, and calendars can serve as evidence. Before filing, an attorney can send a demand letter and attempt to resolve the issue without court intervention. The court’s primary concern remains the child’s best interests, so persistent violations that harm the child’s relationship with the compliant parent are taken seriously.

Do I need a lawyer for a parenting time case in Virginia Beach?

While you are not legally required to have a lawyer, parenting time cases involve procedural rules and statutory standards that can be difficult to navigate alone. An experienced family law attorney can help you understand the trusted-interests factors, prepare a persuasive parenting plan, and present evidence in a way that aligns with the expectations of the Virginia Beach courts. If the other parent has an attorney, representing yourself may put you at a disadvantage. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Last reviewed: July 2026

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