Child Custody and Visitation Lawyers

Child Custody and Visitation, Family Lawyers Serving Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, and Prince William Counties), and Maryland (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Bowie, Crofton)

Child custody and visitation are often times the most important issues regarding children for separating parents. Breaking up a family brings loss, and determining custody is often burdened with sadness and emotion.

The difficulty in facing child custody and visitation issues is something our family law attorneys deeply understand, and we strive to lessen the impact and help clients arrive at decisions that are in the best interests of their children. Our attorneys explain child custody laws and factors considered by the court in determining custody and visitation, to help achieve the best results for each parent.

The courts define custody in two categories: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody deals with making decisions for the child about education, religious upbringing, discipline, medical care and other important concerns. Physical custody determines where the child will reside either primarily with one parent or jointly between both parents.

When parents are unable to come to an amicable solution regarding custody, the courts will look at a list of factors to determine whether sole or joint legal and physical custody is appropriate. After determining parent’s custodial rights, the courts often set a visitation schedule.

Our attorneys are extremely familiar with the laws in Virginia and Maryland regarding child custody and visitation. If you want to know what your rights are regarding custody and visitation, contact us today.

Modification of Custody

Children’s needs and parent’s responsibilities often change as children grow and develop. As a result of these changes, custodial and visitation agreements may also need to be changed. An appropriate custodial arrangement for a three year old child, may not be an appropriate arrangement for a teenager. Over time, the custodial arrangement between parents may need to be modified to reflect the best interests of their minor children. Most courts require that there has been a “material” change in circumstances to modify the original child custody agreement. This “material” change in circumstances is individual and unique to each family.

If you believe there has been a material change in circumstances from your original child custody agreement or order, contact us today and pursue a modification of custody.