Virginia · VA
A plain-English reference to Virginia custody terminology, joint custody, parenting time, relocation, child preferences, and order changes.
Va. Code § 20-124.3 (ten best-interest factors). In Virginia, courts generally describe the schedule as a visitation schedule. The court's decision is based on the child's best interests, not simply a parent's preferred percentage of time.
No presumption for or against joint custody; the court must consider all custody arrangements.
The reasonable preference of a child of reasonable intelligence and understanding is factor 8.
Va. Code § 20-124.5 requires 30 days' advance written notice of an intended relocation to the court and the other parent.
A material change in circumstances plus best interests is required.
Under the UCCJEA the child generally must have lived in the state for the 6 months before filing (or since birth, if younger). Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court handles initial custody; appeals go to Circuit Court.
Put regular time, holidays, exchanges, communication, and dispute steps in one written plan. Then keep the actual schedule and handoffs organized as circumstances change.
Virginia applies the statute or rule summarized above and decides parenting time by the child's best interests. Read the official court resource before filing.
Va. Code § 20-124.5 requires 30 days' advance written notice of an intended relocation to the court and the other parent.
A material change in circumstances plus best interests is required.
Compare the rule with your written plan, schedule, and records before you file or negotiate.
Filing venue, required classes, and the terminology each state's courts use.
2-2-3, 2-2-5-5, week-on/week-off, and every other common rotation.
Count overnights across a full cycle the way state worksheets do.
One-click evidence packets for your attorney or a hearing — unlimited and free.
Applies your state's own guideline model to your numbers.
Terminology, parent-education requirements, and filing venue are taken from each state's court self-help materials and statutes. Requirements change — confirm with the court where you file.
CustodyTrac publishes educational information, not legal advice. Custody and support outcomes depend on facts a calculator cannot see — confirm anything that matters with a family law attorney in your state.