Parenting Time Lawyer Lexington — How Do You Secure a Fair Schedule?
Parenting time in Lexington, Virginia, is governed by the child’s best interests under Va. Code § 20-124.3. A Lexington parenting time lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help you establish a fair schedule. We have 14 documented case results in Lexington. Our firm, founded in 1997, provides full representation for custody and visitation matters.
Virginia Law on Parenting Time and Custody
Virginia courts decide parenting time (visitation) and custody based on the child’s best interests. The primary statute is Va. Code § 20-124.3, which lists ten factors the court must consider. These include the child’s age and needs, each parent’s role, the child’s relationship with each parent, and each parent’s ability to cooperate. Lexington Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles initial custody and visitation cases. Lexington Circuit Court handles these matters within a divorce.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s custody and visitation laws, visit the Virginia Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For local court procedures and forms, refer to the Lexington General District Court website.
Local Process for Lexington Parenting Time Cases
In Lexington, a petition for custody or visitation is filed in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. The court may order a custody evaluation or mediation. Judges here look closely at each parent’s proposed parenting plan. A strong plan addresses weekdays, weekends, holidays, school breaks, and communication methods.
- File a petition for custody or visitation with the Lexington J&DR Court clerk.
- Serve the other parent with the court papers according to Virginia rules.
- Attend any court-ordered orientation or mediation sessions.
- Prepare and submit a detailed proposed parenting plan to the court.
- Present your case at a hearing, focusing on the child’s best interests.
- Obtain the court’s final order detailing the legal custody, physical custody, and parenting time schedule.
Potential Outcomes in Custody Matters
In Lexington, custody decisions determine legal decision-making authority and physical living arrangements, while parenting time schedules outline the non-custodial parent’s visitation.
| Aspect | Legal Standard | Potential Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Custody | Decision-making authority for health, education, welfare. | Sole or joint legal custody. |
| Physical Custody | Primary residence and daily care. | Sole physical custody or shared physical custody. |
| Parenting Time | Schedule for the non-custodial parent. | Standard visitation, expanded visitation, or a custom schedule. |
| Child Support | Calculated via state guidelines based on income and custody time. | Monthly obligation based on Virginia guidelines. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Lexington Parenting Time Case
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex family law matters. A key point of authority is that Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in shaping family law. We understand that a fair parenting time schedule is crucial for your child’s well-being and 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 Client Focus
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes. In Lexington, we have 14 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, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. We focus on creating sustainable, child-centered parenting plans that stand up in Lexington courts.
Contact Our Lexington Parenting Time Attorneys
Our Richmond location serves clients with cases in Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve families throughout the Lexington community.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Lexington Parenting Time
How is parenting time decided in Lexington, Virginia?
It depends. The court uses the child’s best interests standard under Va. Code § 20-124.3, considering factors like each parent’s role, the child’s needs, and the ability of parents to cooperate. A detailed proposed parenting plan is critical.
Can a parenting plan be modified in Lexington?
Yes. You can file a petition for modification in the Lexington J&DR Court if there has been a material change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare. The court will again apply the best interests standard to any requested change to the visitation schedule.
What is the difference between legal custody and parenting time?
Legal custody is the authority to make major decisions for the child (health, education). Parenting time, often called visitation, is the schedule outlining when the child is with each parent. In Lexington, these are separate issues decided by the court.
Do I need a lawyer to create a parenting plan in Lexington?
While not legally required, a parenting plan lawyer Lexington is highly recommended. An attorney ensures your proposed schedule is full, complies with Virginia law, and addresses all potential issues, giving you the best chance for court approval.
How can a visitation schedule lawyer in Lexington help me?
A visitation schedule lawyer Lexington can negotiate with the other parent, draft a legally sound parenting plan, represent you in mediation, and advocate for your desired schedule in court, protecting your relationship with your child.
For related legal help, see our pages on Lexington criminal defense and Lexington DUI defense. For more Virginia family law resources, visit our Virginia family law hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your parenting time case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.