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Child Custody Lawyers Offer Clients Compassionate and Competent Counsel in Northern Virginia

Providing McLean, and all of Northern Virginia, with quality legal services since 2000

Agreeing with your spouse on child custody and visitation arrangements can be difficult. As experienced family law attorneys, we at The Leiser Law Firm work with you and your spouse to help you reach a mutually beneficial agreement. However, we recognize that, despite everyone’s best efforts, child custody negotiations sometimes fail. Rest assured that when you retain our services, you gain the support of a formidable legal team that regularly fights on behalf of divorce clients in Northern Virginia.

What is child custody?

When a divorcing couple has children, physical custody must be determined. In a contested divorce, the court considers all the facts of the case before awarding custody. In general, the court acts only in the best interests of the children. Where appropriate, the court also requests couples enroll in family law mediation to resolve their issues. Among the factors the court considers when addressing child custody in Virginia are:

  • The age and physical and mental condition of the child
  • Relationship existing between each parent and the child
  • Needs of the child
  • Role each parent plays in the upbringing and care of the child
  • Willingness of each parent to actively support the child’s contact and relationship with the other parent
  • The reasonable preference of the child (if applicable)
  • Any history of abuse as defined by Virginia law
  • Any other factors the court deems necessary and proper to make the determination

Whether you are going through a contested or uncontested divorce, our lawyers are ready to fight passionately for your custody or visitation rights.

How can a custody order be modified?

A custody order cannot easily be modified. While the court understands that your circumstances may change after your divorce, its primary concern is the welfare of your child. If you are petitioning the court to modify a custody order, you must prove a material change of circumstances and that modifying custody is in the best interest of the child.

Different types of custody

The law is unbiased in determining which parents should be awarded child custody. Depending on the circumstances of your divorce and your relationship with your spouse, you may seek the following types of custody in Virginia:

  • Sole custody — Legally, the custodial parent makes all decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.
  • Joint legal custody — The child resides primarily with one parent, but both parents have a say in major decisions affecting the child, including those related to school, religion and healthcare.
  • Joint physical custody — Virginia family law allows both parents to share physical and custodial care of a child.

Contact McLean-area custody lawyers who work tirelessly for you

Child custody is one of the most combative issues in divorce proceedings. If you and your spouse cannot agree on child custody, you need professional legal help. At The Leiser Law Firm we have more than a decade of experience litigating on behalf of divorce clients in Northern Virginia. Call 703-734-5000 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys.