Child custody and support in Virginia

Custody of the Children In Virginia

The concept of joint “legal” custody, giving both parents the right to be involved in the decision-making process for major child-rearing choices, is supported by the Virginia State Court. Joint legal custody doesn’t always mean equal time spent among both parents. As long as the child’s best interests are kept at the forefront, the court will usually approve the custody agreement reached by spouses.

Virginia Child Support Guidelines

The standard Virginia child support guidelines apply in almost every uncontested divorce case unless there are exceptional circumstances present. These guidelines take into account both parties’ gross incomes and some of the child-rearing expenses. In most cases, child support will extend until at least the child or children’s 18th birthday, and it may last until secondary education has been completed.