If you are navigating a divorce and have children, custody arrangements could be the issue with the most emotional impact. When determining custody, courts focus on the best interests of the children above all else.
At Ashwell & Ashwell, our family law attorneys understand that life after a divorce may feel frightening for a child who has always relied on both parents. We help you work toward maintaining that sense of security with a realistic parenting plan. We are available to listen to your questions and concerns so we can advocate for you and your child. A compassionate and skilled Richmond child custody lawyer is here for you.
Child custody issues are among the most stressful and contentious in the legal system when parents disagree with what is in a child’s best interest. Under Virginia Code § 20-124.3, the courts consider several factors when determining custody and visitation schedules. These factors include:
Custody arrangements have a far-reaching impact on a child’s future because the family is being restructured. When the court rules on custody and visitation, it is a legal order. If one spouse ignores the order, they may face significant consequences, such as contempt of court charges, changes to custody and visitation, and fines.
Our seasoned attorneys can guide you in seeking solutions in the best interest of the children involved, while keeping your emotional, financial, and parental well-being in mind. A child custody attorney in Richmond is ready to answer your questions now.
The court considers both legal and physical child custody when making decisions about a child’s care and may award either type jointly or solely to one parent. If a parent is awarded legal custody, that parent has sole authority over decisions affecting the child. Physical custody refers to which parent provides the child’s daily supervision and primary care.
Joint custody may allow both parents shared decision-making responsibilities and time with each parent, which is often preferable so the child maintains a relationship with each parent. However, if this is not in the child’s best interest— as in cases involving abuse—our child custody lawyers may offer evidence during court hearings or mediation to advocate for you and your child in Richmond.
Begin by documenting all interactions your child has with your former spouse. If you are being accused of poor parenting, document your role in your child’s life, including their school reports, medical care, and social interactions.
When possible, make sure visitation schedules are followed, and always keep your child’s best interests as your main goal. Do not let your emotions overrule your judgment. We may intervene with proof if one parent tries to undermine the other.
Ashwell & Ashwell understands that emotions may intensify during divorce and child custody issues and recognize that children are sometimes used as tools in disputes between parents. This does not have to happen. Whether you are beginning this legal process and wish to explore your options for a parenting plan, or wish to appeal a court decision, our Richmond child custody lawyer is ready to strategize with you as soon as possible. Few things are more important than making sure your child is taken care of, and that you can play a role in their life even after a divorce.
A criminal defense attorney serves as your advocate and guide throughout every stage of your legal proceedings. From the moment of arrest or charge, your attorney will explain your rights, help you understand the charges against you, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your case. They will investigate the facts, review evidence, file pretrial motions, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or plea agreements, and represent you vigorously at trial if necessary. Your attorney ensures that law enforcement and the prosecution respect your constitutional rights at every turn, working to achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf.
In general, the civil litigation process encompasses several crucial stages, beginning with the Pleadings phase, where parties formally outline their claims and defenses. Following that, the Discovery stage allows both sides to gather evidence through depositions and document requests to support their case. Pre-trial motions aim to resolve the case or limit issues before trial. If unresolved, the process moves to Trial, where the case is argued in court. Finally, the Appeal phase offers a chance to challenge the trial’s outcome. Each stage is pivotal, designed to ensure fairness and resolve disputes effectively.
A DUI conviction in Virginia carries serious consequences that can affect many areas of your life. For a first offense, you may face fines starting at $250, a 12-month license suspension, mandatory enrollment in the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP), and possible jail time. Subsequent offenses result in significantly harsher penalties, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, mandatory minimum jail sentences, and the possibility of felony charges. A DUI conviction also creates a permanent criminal record, which can impact your employment, insurance rates, and professional licenses. Our attorneys work aggressively to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Our family law attorneys handle a wide range of matters affecting families and individuals. We represent clients in divorce and legal separation proceedings, including both contested and uncontested cases. We also handle child custody and visitation disputes, child support and spousal support (alimony) matters, equitable distribution of marital property, and the enforcement or modification of existing court orders. Additionally, our attorneys assist with adoption proceedings, paternity actions, domestic violence protective orders, and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements. Whatever your family law matter, our team is committed to protecting your rights and the well-being of your family.
A comprehensive Virginia estate plan typically includes several key documents. A Last Will and Testament outlines how your assets will be distributed and may name a guardian for minor children. A Revocable Living Trust allows assets to pass to beneficiaries without going through probate. Financial Powers of Attorney designate someone to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated, while a Healthcare Power of Attorney and Advance Medical Directive (Living Will) specify your healthcare preferences and appoint someone to make medical decisions on your behalf. Beneficiary designations on life insurance policies and retirement accounts are also critical components. Our estate planning attorneys will work with you to ensure all documents are properly drafted and reflect your wishes.
