Virginia Child Custody And Visitation Attorney

Law Office of Krista L. Newton PLLC, is a boutique family law firm serving Manassas and Arlington. Attorney Krista Newton provides clients with direct attorney access and a personal approach to every child custody case. When your child’s future is at stake, you deserve an attorney who knows your story and fights for your family.

How Child Custody Works In Virginia

Virginia family law organizes custody into two distinct types: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody involves decision-making authority over a child’s education, healthcare and overall welfare. Physical custody addresses where the child resides on a day-to-day basis.

Courts recognize both joint and sole arrangements for each type. Joint custody means both parents share rights and responsibilities, while sole custody gives one parent exclusive authority.

Virginia courts do not follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Every custody order reflects the specific needs of the child and family.

Factors Virginia Courts Consider In Child Custody Cases

Virginia courts base all custody decisions on the best interests of the child. When evaluating custody, judges consider:

• Each parent’s age and physical and mental condition
• The child’s age, health and development
• The quality and history of each parent’s bond with the child
• Each parent’s involvement in the child’s day-to-day care
• The child’s adjustment to home, school and community
• Each parent’s commitment to fostering the child’s relationship with the other parent
• Any history of family abuse or neglect
• The child’s preference, depending on maturity
• The reasonable ability of each parent to maintain a close relationship with the child

Our team helps you understand how each factor applies to your specific case.

Visitation Rights And Parenting Time In Virginia

Visitation, also called parenting time, establishes when the noncustodial parent spends time with the child. Virginia courts encourage both parents to stay actively involved in their child’s life and parenting plans address weekly schedules, holidays and travel.

At the Law Office of Krista L. Newton PLLC, we craft personalized legal strategies for every family we serve. Lead attorney Krista Newton takes time to understand your family’s dynamics and builds a parenting plan that fits your child and your schedule.

Your Child’s Future Deserves A Personal Advocate

Your child’s future is too important for a generic approach. The Law Office of Krista L. Newton PLLC, has served Northern Virginia families for more than 10 years, earning five-star reviews and a trusted reputation in Prince William County. Call our office at 571-659-4186 to speak with a family law attorney, or reach out online to schedule your consultation.