Protect Your Role As A Parent With Informed Legal Counsel
Child custody can be complex area of law. Each situation is different, and the family situations change over time. This is also the most emotionally charged area within family law. At Hirsch & Ehlenberger, P.C., our Northern Virginia child custody lawyers are experienced in handling custody issues at every stage of litigation and settlement, including initial determinations of child custody, parenting plans and child visitation as well modifications of existing agreements and court orders.
When the courts are needed to ensure a child’s best interests, we are experienced in advocating for the best result for the child. We regularly work with clients when there are issues of physical abuse and/or emotional abuse between the parents or against a child in the family. We understand how to navigate the court system to get your relief as quickly as possible.
Numerous Issues Factor Into Child Custody Decisions
When issues involving child custody are presented to courts, the judges are required to consider a variety of factors, including:
- The child’s age and mental and physical condition
- The age and physical and mental condition of each parent
- Basic needs of the child
- Each parent’s ability to assess and meet the child’s needs
- Each parent’s ability to foster a good relationship with the child
- The reasonable preference of the child
- Any history of family abuse
In presenting a child custody or child visitation case, we are mindful of all of these factors. Our attorneys will work with you to prepare for your court appearance, including preparing exhibits and your testimony.
Joint Custody Versus Sole Custody
In Virginia, courts recognize two main types of custody arrangements: joint or shared custody and sole custody. We strive to help our clients understand the differences between these arrangements.
- Joint legal custody: Both parents share decision-making responsibilities for important matters such as education, health care and religious upbringing.
- Shared physical custody: Children have significant (although not necessarily equal) time with each parent and divide their time between both parents’ homes according to an agreed schedule.
- Sole legal custody: One parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions for the child without consulting the other parent.
- Sole physical custody: The child lives primarily with one parent, while the other typically receives visitation rights.
As child custody attorneys, we guide our clients through each option and help them pursue an arrangement that benefits their children while protecting their parental rights.
How Custody Decisions Affect Child Support And Visitation Rights
In shared custody cases, courts typically adjust support payments based on the time each parent spends with the child. Sole custody typically results in higher support payments from the noncustodial parent. Visitation rights are also influenced by custody decisions. Shared custody often leads to more flexible schedules, while sole custody may result in set visitation times for the noncustodial parent. In certain cases, courts may order supervised visitation to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. As your family law attorneys, our goal is to guide you through the complexities of child custody laws and help you make informed decisions for your family’s future.
Modifications To Your Parenting Plan Are Possible
Modifications of custody or visitation situations can be achieved only after showing a material change in circumstances that warrants a modification. Many litigants who do not have lawyers assisting them in filing or presenting their case often fail to address these important threshold issues. Our lawyers have experience in negotiating modifications of custody and visitation orders when needed, as we understand that your children’s needs and preferences may change as they get older, requiring you to re-address these areas.
Well-Versed In Child Custody Law And Ready For Your Inquiry
Contact Hirsch & Ehlenberger, P.C., to ask about having a consultation to discuss how we can help you navigate the child custody and child visitation process. You can call our office at 703-481-6063 or send us an email to begin scheduling your consultation.