Virginia child custody lawyer Kristen D. Hofheimer Esquire defines joint legal custody in Virginia in her free E-book ,The Women's Custody Survival Handbook, as when parents "are expected to discuss major decisions and try to reach a consensus. Virginia courts consider decisions regarding education, non-emergency medical care, and religious upbringing to be major decisions on which joint custodians should reach agreement."
This basically means that if both parents share legal custody of their child or children, both parents must be involved in all major life decisions for that child. It is important to note that legal custody is different from physical custody. A parent who is not living in the same residence as their child may still be granted legal custody and must be consulted on big decisions regarding the child.
Although joint custody is often an ideal situation for your child, it also brings a fair share of problems for the parents. In order to maintain your privileges for child visitation in Virginia, you need to be aware of several "parent traps" that may be laid for you. Virginia Child Custody Law
Virginia courts place a premium on friendly relations between parents. Surprisingly, some of the things that seem the most helpful for your child may actually give your ex-spouse fodder for his court case. These situations are called "friendly parent traps" and a qualified Virginia child custody lawyer can help you avoid them.
For years, you were the one who made the dentist appointments, chaperoned the school trips and helped with the science fair project. Now that your ex does not have unlimited access to your child, he seems to be more than interested in helping with these duties. To maintain sole control over these activities will be a grave mistake for your child custody case.
Despite your established history, if you reject your ex's overtures to take on more responsibility, the courts may label you an unfriendly parent who may be trying to alienate your children from their father. Similarly, never withhold a visitation without first contacting a child custody lawyer.Unless abuse has occurred, this is the ultimate strike against you when dealing in child custody relations, no matter how much you think it is deserved.
We understand that the health and happiness of your child is your #1 concern and we will work with you to address any fears and anxieties that you may have about your child's future. The women's divorce attorneys at Hofheimer/Ferrebee will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you achieve the best possible child custody and child support arrangements for you and your children. Contact us today to schedule a legal consultation- (757) 425-5200.
To order your free book-www.freedivorcebook.com information on seminars-www.monthlydivorceseminars.com info on collaborative divorce-www.virginiacollaborativelaw.com information-estate planning for young families-www.generationslawfirm.com information-family law and estate planning for the LGBT community-www.FamilyEqualityLawCenter.com
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