Manassas Child Custody Lawyer
Protecting Your Parental Rights in Virginia Custody Cases
If you are going through a divorce, separation, or if you were never married and you share a child with another party, you should retain experienced legal representation as soon as possible. There is much at stake when two parents decide to go their separate ways, and you need to ensure your rights are fully protected. When determining child custody matters, the court will look at what is in the child’s best interests.
How Is Child Custody Awarded in Virginia?
It is important to note that custody matters are not just for those who are facing a divorce, and any parents who share a child or multiple children can face a custody battle when they decide to separate. Custody matters are an important part of family law, and while they can be contentious, our firm is ready and able to help ensure your child benefits from a fair custody plan.
In the state of Virginia, the court will always make a custody decision based on what is in the best interests of the child. The list of factors can be found here. In order to recognize which parent would be best suited for custody, the court will take into account myriad factors when determining the child’s best interests.
Key Factors Considered by Virginia Courts:
- The age of the child
- The child’s relationships with the parents, siblings, and/or other immediate or extended family members
- Cultural and/or religious considerations
- Adjustments to school and community
- The physical and mental health of both parents
- The wishes of the child (if the child is deemed old enough to express a preference)
- Whether either parent has a history of domestic violence or drug and alcohol abuse
Contact Sandground, West, Silek, Raminpour & Wright, PLC at (703) 420-7011 for a Consultation with Our Manassas Child Custody Attorneys.
What Makes a Parent Unfit for Custody?
Custody disputes can be very challenging. When the court makes a decision on the best interests of the child, a parent may be deemed unfit to carry out their role as caretaker. This alone would inhibit the parent from being awarded custody, and perhaps limit visitation.
Criteria for Determining Parental Fitness:
- A history of drug or alcohol abuse
- A history of child neglect or abuse
- A mental condition that prohibits the parent from caring for and protecting the child
- Not being able to provide proper food or shelter for the child
- Not demonstrating the willingness to work with the other parent or the court
- Not showing the willingness to be involved with the child's life
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We are dedicated to helping everyday people through the most difficult moments of their lives. If you would like to learn more about our firm, please call Sandground, West, Silek, Raminpour & Wright, PLC today at 703-420-7011 to schedule your consultation.
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