Custody Lawyer Marion, VA

Child custody and visitation are among the most emotionally taxing issues parents confront during a divorce or separation.  Most individuals recognize how dramatically their lives will change, and at the same time wish to minimize the negative consequences that their children experience.  At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we understand that you want what is best for your child.

We invite you to call our office to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Marion custody lawyer.  When you choose our firm, we will put all the knowledge and experience we have gained over decades of practicing law in seeking to get you the best possible outcome in your custody matter.

Affordable Hourly Fees – Credit Cards Accepted

Marion Joint Custody Attorney for Virginia Custody Cases.

In Virginia, there are two main types of custody that parents must either agree upon or have a judge decide: legal custody and physical custody.

Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the right of a parent (or parents) to make important decisions involved in a child’s life.  For example, parents with legal custody may decide where a child will go to school, whether specific medical treatments will be administered, whether a child will receive religious instruction, and other critical decisions.

In amicable situations, both parents may share legal custody, having an equal say in essential choices.  However, in high-conflict cases in which parents are incapable of agreeing, a judge may award sole legal custody to one parent to help prevent future conflict.

Physical Custody

Physical custody refers to where a child will primarily live.  A parent with primary physical custody (referred to as the custodial parent) will likely receive child support from the noncustodial parent.  When a court determines physical custody, it will consider what is in the best interests of the child, carefully weighing factors, including (but not limited to):

1. 1. The wishes of a child (depending on their age)
   2. The mental and physical health of the parents and child
   3. Interaction between parents, siblings, and other key parties
   4. Previous domestic abuse
   5. Financial Means
   6. Whether both parents will help foster a loving relationship with the other parent

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, an experienced Marion child custody lawyer can handle all aspects of your Virginia child custody and visitation case.  We will take the time to learn about the individual needs of you and your child and what it is that you believe is in their best interests.

Getting an Experienced Marion Custody Lawyer for Disputes – How We Help

If you’re in a custody dispute, it will be important to have an experienced Marion child custody attorney who can tenaciously represent you in all custody-related matters, regardless of how emotionally charged or legally complex.  We represent clients in custody dispute matters including (but not limited to):

• Sole Custody
• Joint Custody
• Visitation Rights/Parenting Time
• Child Support
• Father’s Rights
• Grandparent’s Rights
• Adoption
• Post-decree Modification
• Custody Modifications
• Enforcement Actions
• Paternity Proceedings
• Custody Kidnappings
• Interstate Custody
• International Custody

Our Virginia family law practice serves parents not only in Marion but across southern and southwestern Virginia.  Whether you are seeking physical and legal custody for your child’s welfare or are a noncustodial parent seeking to ensure that you continue to play a vital role in your child’s life, call our office to schedule a free consultation to learn more about your legal options.

Can I Agree on Custody with The Other Parent?

In many cases, parents can agree on a custody plan without court intervention.  In most cases, if both parents agree on a custody plan, the courts will enforce the arrangement.  Further, the parties will typically save on costly litigation. If parents are unable to agree on custody, a judge will make a final determination, with the goal of doing what is in a child’s best interests.

Can I Modify A Child Custody Order?

After a final custody determination is reached, circumstances can arise that make it necessary to modify custody.  For example, one parent may develop a substance abuse disorder or move to a different state.  In situations where there is a significant change in circumstances, the courts can modify a custody order.

If you need help with a modification, we invite you to call our office to learn if the current change in circumstances warrants a modification under Virginia law.

Need Help Resolving a Custody Dispute in Virginia?

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we take pride in offering solutions that are effective, efficient, and cost-conscious.  We will listen carefully to your wishes and goals, provide calculated guidance, and offer honest answers to your questions.

Call today to arrange your free initial consultation.  While going through a divorce is stressful, particularly when a child is involved, sound guidance from our dedicated attorneys can ensure the process is as successful as possible.