Fredericksburg Child Custody Attorney

Compassionate & Aggressive Child Custody Representation in VA

If you are going through a divorce, the issue of child custody is sure to come up. Custody refers to the responsibility for making decisions regarding the upbringing of a child, and it may be awarded to either parent or shared by both parents. The person who has custody of the child makes the decisions regarding the child's education, health care, and upbringing. Attorney Lewis Lowery is a highly experienced child custody attorney who can fight for your rights and the rights of your child.

To speak with an experienced Fredericksburg child custody lawyer, give us a call at (540) 999-1886 or contact us online today.

How Is Child Custody Determined in Virginia?

When parents cannot agree on an arrangement, the court will make the decision. In making its decision, the court will look at the best interests of the child when determining the custody arrangement. In Virginia, the court gives significant weight to the parents' agreement regarding the custody and visitation of their children. However, the court will not simply rubber-stamp the parents' decision, but will make its own decision based on the child's best interests.

In determining the child's best interests, the court will look at the following factors:

• the child's relationships with parents, siblings, and other significant persons;
• the child's age and health;
• the child's attachment to parents;
• the child's preference if the child is of sufficient age to express a preference;
• the parents' wishes;
• the child's adjustment to home, school, and community;
• whether a parent has abused the child or a member of the child's household;
• whether a parent is or will be absent due to military service;
• the child's needs for a stable home;
• whether a parent is or will be absent due to employment;
• the child's developmental stage;
• the child's mental and physical health;
• the child's need for a parental figure;
• the child's cultural and social needs;
• whether the child's safety would be endangered;
• the child's relationship with each parent;
• the child's adjustment to home, school, and community;
• the child's developmental needs;
• the child's age;
• the child's wishes if the child is of sufficient age to express a preference;
• any other factor that is relevant to the child's best interest.

How Long Does Child Custody Last in Virginia?

In Virginia, child custody orders are not permanent. The court can modify the order based on a substantial change of circumstances, such as a change in the child's or a parent's circumstances, or a change in the child's best interests.

Contact Our Fredericksburg Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody matters can be highly contentious and emotionally charged, and it is important to work with an experienced attorney who can advocate for your rights and the best interests of your child. At A. Lewis Lowery, Jr., Attorney at Law, PLC, we are here to help you. 

To speak with an experienced Fredericksburg child custody lawyer, give us a call at (540) 999-1886 or contact us online today.