If you’re a parent getting divorced in Virginia, you will want to know as much as you can about Virginia child custody laws. With the help of your attorney, you can seek a custody arrangement that works best for you and your family.
There are 2 primary types of child custody under Virginia law; physical and legal. The difference between the two kinds of custody comes down to how much decision making power the custodial parent has. The parent who has legal custody is responsible for making the important :big” decisions in the child’s life, like religious training, schooling, and medical decisions.
A parent with physical custody has the child living with them. Their residence is the child’s primary home, and this parent has control of the basic care and everyday decisions in the child’s life.
If the parents share physical custody of the child, the child may split time between both parent’s homes. The parents will share the responsibilities for the child’s everyday care and practical needs. However, only the parent with legal custody can make the major decisions in the child’s life.
It’s possible for you and your ex to be granted either both joint legal or joint physical custody, and your rights and responsibilities will reflect this. Your attorney will help you navigate Virginia child custody laws so that you can create a stable environment for your child.
Contacting a Virginia Child Custody Attorney
At Hofheimer Family Law Firm, we understand that the health and happiness of your children is your #1 concern. We will work with you to address any fears and anxieties you may have about your children’s future. Our women’s-only divorce attorneys will guide you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children.
To learn more about your Virginia divorce, request a FREE copy of our guide, What Every Virginia Woman Should Know About Divorce, or reserve your seat at our monthly divorce seminar – 757-425-5200.