Child custody and support in West Virginia

Custody of the Children In West Virginia

In a contested case, courts presume that the child’s primary physical caregiver and primary parent will be awarded custody. However, it is possible for either parent to be awarded custody, and there is no gender bias in custody decisions. If it is in the best interests of the children, the courts will approve agreements reached by the parents.

West Virginia Child Support Guidelines

West Virginia has child support guidelines in place that will apply in almost every case. If there are exceptional circumstances present, they may be overridden. In most instances, both parents’ incomes, as well as child-related expenses, are considered when child support obligations are calculated. Child support is expected to continue until a child reaches age 18, and then may extend until a child completes secondary education, in some situations.