Annulment Lawyer New Kent County, VA

You exchanged vows, built a home, and began a future together. Then you learned your spouse was still married to someone else, or that your consent was obtained through fraud. For many New Kent County residents, an annulment—a legal declaration that the marriage never validly existed—offers a path forward. If you believe your marriage should be annulled, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. are here to help. Call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Strategy Options for Annulment in New Kent County

Virginia law allows a marriage to be annulled when a legal defect existed at its outset. Under Va. Code § 20‑89.1, grounds include bigamy, mental incapacity at the time of the ceremony, fraud, duress, being underage without proper consent, and impotence existing at the marriage that was concealed from the other spouse. An annulment differs from a divorce: it treats the marriage as though it never validly existed, rather than terminating a valid union.

For residents of New Kent County, the choice between annulment and divorce depends on the specific facts. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel assess each case carefully, examining the evidence supporting the ground for annulment and the practical consequences—property division, spousal support, and the legitimacy of children—before deciding which route best aligns with a client’s objectives. Our Richmond location represents individuals throughout the county, including those in Providence Forge, Quinton, and the surrounding communities.

What to Expect During an Annulment Case

Annulment proceedings are filed in the New Kent County Circuit Court, which has exclusive original jurisdiction over annulment and divorce matters under Va. Code § 20‑96. Before filing, one of the parties must have been a resident and domiciliary of Virginia for at least six months. The petition must set forth the specific ground for annulment and be supported by factual allegations.

After the petition is filed, the court will schedule a hearing. At the hearing, the petitioner must present evidence sufficient to prove the ground alleged—for example, a marriage certificate from a prior undissolved marriage, or testimony establishing fraud or incapacity. If the court is satisfied, it will enter a decree of annulment. The timeline varies based on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the issues; uncontested cases often resolve more quickly than those in which the respondent opposes the annulment.

Legal and Practical Consequences of Annulment

Unlike a divorce, an annulment generally does not provide for equitable distribution of marital property or spousal support, because the marriage is treated as void from the beginning. Virginia courts may nevertheless make provisions concerning property that was acquired during the relationship, applying principles of equity. Children born of a marriage later annulled are, by statute, considered legitimate and entitled to parental support and custody arrangements determined under the trusted‑interests standard.

A person seeking an annulment in New Kent County should understand that the decree can carry lasting effects. A finding of fraud or incapacity might influence future disputes over finances or reputation. Because the grounds for annulment are narrow and the burden of proof is on the moving party, it is essential to work with an attorney experienced in evaluating the evidence and presenting a clear, well‑supported case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to achieve a resolution that protects the client’s interests while minimizing unnecessary conflict.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Annulment Matters

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced family law across multiple states since 1997. He draws on decades of litigation experience—including his background as a former prosecutor—to analyze the facts of each annulment matter and to develop a tailored strategy. He has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris is joined by a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each bringing substantial courtroom knowledge. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to annulment matters. Results may vary. in your case. They represent clients at the New Kent County Circuit Court and are available to discuss your situation during a consultation by appointment. Our Richmond location serves New Kent County and the broader Central Virginia region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Annulment in New Kent County, VA

What is the difference between an annulment and a divorce in Virginia?

An annulment declares that a marriage was never legally valid because a defect existed at its start—such as bigamy or fraud—while a divorce ends a valid marriage. An annulment does not create a marriage record for equitable distribution or spousal support, although the court may address property and child-related issues.

What are the grounds for an annulment under Virginia law?

Under Va. Code § 20‑89.1, a marriage may be annulled for bigamy, mental incapacity at the time of the ceremony, fraud, duress, lack of consent due to age, or impotence existing at the marriage that was concealed. Each ground requires specific evidence, and a petitioner must prove the factual basis to the satisfaction of the court.

Does a person need to be a Virginia resident to file for an annulment in New Kent County?

Yes. Va. Code § 20‑97 requires that at least one of the parties be an actual bona fide resident and domiciliary of Virginia for at least six months immediately before filing. If only one party meets the residency requirement, the petition may still be filed in the New Kent County Circuit Court.

How long does an annulment case take in New Kent County?

The time frame depends on the court’s docket, whether the case is contested, and the availability of witnesses and documents. An uncontested annulment where the respondent does not oppose the grounds can resolve faster than a fully litigated matter. For guidance on the likely timeline for your case, contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.

What happens to children if a marriage is annulled?

Children born of a marriage later annulled are treated as legitimate under Virginia law. Custody, visitation, and child support are determined by the same best‑interests standard that applies in divorce cases, ensuring that the children’s welfare remains the court’s primary concern.

Do I need a lawyer to file for an annulment in New Kent County?

While you are not required to hire an attorney, the legal standards for proving an annulment ground are strict, and procedural mistakes can delay or derail a case. An experienced family‑law attorney helps gather the necessary evidence, prepare the petition, and present the case effectively. To discuss whether legal representation is right for your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Request a Consultation with an Annulment Lawyer

If you are considering an annulment in New Kent County, Virginia, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are available to discuss your circumstances. Call (888) 437‑7747 or contact us online to schedule a consultation by appointment. Our Richmond location serves clients across New Kent, Providence Forge, Quinton, and the surrounding communities.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.