Virginia
Child Custody & Support Lawyers
Compassionate Advocacy for Custody and Support in Virginia
At Renfro & Renfro, we understand that nothing is more important than your relationship with your child. Whether you’re navigating a divorce, separation, or a dispute involving unmarried parents, we provide experienced legal guidance to help protect your parental rights and ensure your child’s best interests are front and center.
We take a personalized approach to every family law case—offering clarity in uncertain times, assertive representation when necessary, and compassionate counsel throughout the process.
How Child Custody Works in Virginia
Virginia law separates custody into two main types: legal custody and physical custody.
Legal custody determines who makes important decisions about the child’s upbringing.
Physical custody defines where the child lives.
Both types can be shared (joint custody) or granted to one parent (sole custody).
Courts in Virginia always base custody decisions on the “best interest of the child” standard. Judges look at factors such as the child’s age, each parent’s ability to care for the child, the existing parent-child relationship, and each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Parenting plans play a crucial role in joint custody arrangements, outlining how time, responsibilities, and decisions will be shared. Custody orders can be modified if circumstances significantly change, such as a parent relocating or a shift in the child’s needs.
Understanding Child Support in Virginia
Child support in Virginia is calculated based on state guidelines that consider each parent’s income, the number of children, custody arrangements, and other financial factors. These guidelines are designed to ensure consistency and fairness.
Support payments help cover essential expenses like housing, food, healthcare, childcare, and education. They ensure that both parents contribute to the child’s well-being, regardless of where the child lives.
Whether you are the paying or receiving parent, understanding your rights is key. If your financial situation changes or if the current order no longer meets your child’s needs, you may be able to modify the support agreement. We also assist clients in enforcing child support when a parent is not meeting their obligations.
Unmarried parents may also seek or be required to provide child support. In those cases, we help with paternity establishment and support orders tailored to your situation.
What to Expect in a Custody or Support Case
- Initial Consultation – We assess your family dynamics and legal goals.
- Filing the Petition – Legal documents are prepared and filed with the appropriate court.
- Negotiation or Mediation – We strive for collaborative resolutions while protecting your interests.
- Court Hearings (if needed) – If an agreement can’t be reached, we represent you in hearings before a judge.
- Final Orders – Once decisions are finalized, we guide you through next steps to ensure full compliance and stability for your child.
When Should You Hire a Custody or Support Lawyer?
You should consult a lawyer if:
- You and the other parent can’t agree on custody or support
- You’re worried about your child’s safety or stability
- There’s been a major change in circumstances
- The other parent isn’t complying with a court order
- You’re seeking custody as a grandparent or non-parent guardian
- The case involves high conflict, relocation, or substance abuse
Even when things appear amicable, having legal guidance ensures your rights and your child’s future are protected.
We Handle All Types of Custody and Support Issues
From emotionally charged disputes to practical parenting logistics, we’re here to support you through every scenario. If you’re dealing with a custody battle during divorce, we offer strong representation to protect your parenting rights. For parents creating or revising parenting plans, we help build structured, workable solutions that promote consistency and reduce conflict.
In cases where grandparents or other third parties seek custody, we carefully present the case to demonstrate the child’s best interest. We also assist in matters involving children with special needs—where additional care and planning is required.
If your current order no longer reflects your family’s reality, we can petition the court for a modification. And when the other parent fails to follow an order, we help enforce it promptly and effectively.
Why Choose Renfro & Renfro for Your Custody and Support Case?
Our firm stands apart not only for our legal experience but for the way we treat the families who come through our doors. We take time to understand your concerns, tailor a strategy to your values, and communicate clearly at every stage.
We’ve helped families across Richmond and Fredericksburg handle everything from amicable parenting agreements to emergency court motions. Whether you need skilled negotiation or strong courtroom advocacy, we’re ready to meet you where you are—and move forward together.
Testimonials
Ready to Protect Your Parental Rights?
Call now to schedule a confidential consultation with a child custody lawyer in Virginia. We’re here when your family needs clarity and strength the most.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is child custody decided in Virginia?
- Courts decide based on the child’s best interests, looking at parental roles, child needs, and ability to co-parent. Learn more about this in our blog.
