Child Custody and Support

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that issues involving child custody and support are deeply personal and often the most challenging part of a family law case. Our compassionate attorneys are committed to protecting your parental rights while prioritizing your child’s best interests.

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Whether you are seeking sole custody, joint custody, or need help modifying an existing arrangement, we will advocate for a solution that supports your family’s unique needs.


Your breakup doesn't have to break you, let us help you on your journey towards a better tomorrow.

Custody Options

In Virginia, courts decide custody and visitation based on many factors; all which focus on the best interest of the child. Here's how the process often works:


  • Legal Custody: determines the ability to make significant life-decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as schooling, medical, and religious observation. The court may award legal custody to both parents (joint legal custody) or to one parent (sole legal custody).
  • Physical Custody: also known as visitation or parenting time, where the child spends their time / lives. This may also be joint or sole.


Our team will carefully review your situation and advise you on the most appropriate plan of action that is in the best interest of your child(ren).


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Custody Options

In Virginia, courts decide custody and visitation based on many factors; all which focus on the best interest of the child. Here's how the process often works:


  • Legal Custody: determines the ability to make significant life-decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as schooling, medical, and religious observation. The court may award legal custody to both parents (joint legal custody) or to one parent (sole legal custody).
  • Physical Custody: also known as visitation or parenting time, where the child spends their time / lives. This may also be joint or sole.


Our team will carefully review your situation and advise you on the most appropriate plan of action that is in the best interest of your child(ren).


Learn More

We are ready to help you!

Call or text us at 804-773-1751

Factors Considered

During the court’s determination of child custody and visitation, the court must consider certain factors. These factors include, but are not limited to the following:


  • The age and developmental needs of the child. 
  • The type of environment and living conditions each parent provides. 
  • The child’s relationship with each parent. 
  • The preference of the child, depending on age and maturity. 
  • The parents’ ability to co-parent. 
  • Any abuse or neglect history.


We can help you understand how these factors may impact your specific case.


Learn More

Factors Considered

During the court’s determination of child custody and visitation, the court must consider certain factors. These factors include, but are not limited to the following:


  • The age and developmental needs of the child. 
  • The type of environment and living conditions each parent provides. 
  • The child’s relationship with each parent. 
  • The preference of the child, depending on age and maturity. 
  • The parents’ ability to co-parent. 
  • Any abuse or neglect history.


We can help you understand how these factors may impact your specific case.


Learn More

We are ready to help you!

Call or text us at 804-773-1751

Child Support

Virginia utilizes a specific set of guidelines and factors to determine child support obligations.


  1. Child Support Guidelines: Virginia courts utilize a formula that focuses on the income of both parents and the number of children that requires support. These guidelines provide a basis for determining an appropriate and accurate amount of child support per Virginia and Federal standards.
  2. Income Calculation: This includes gross income as well as certain deductions.
  3. Duration: Unless otherwise ordered, Virginia support orders terminate once the child turns 18.  However, other factors may be considered.
  4. Modifications: Virginia allows child support modifications when there is a significant change in circumstances.


Our experienced attorney's will help you navigate how child support will impact your case and what is most beneficial for your child. 


Learn More

Child Support

Virginia utilizes a specific set of guidelines and factors to determine child support obligations.


  1. Child Support Guidelines: Virginia courts utilize a formula that focuses on the income of both parents and the number of children that requires support. These guidelines provide a basis for determining an appropriate and accurate amount of child support per Virginia and Federal standards.
  2. Income Calculation: This includes gross income as well as certain deductions.
  3. Duration: Unless otherwise ordered, Virginia support orders terminate once the child turns 18.  However, other factors may be considered.
  4. Modifications: Virginia allows child support modifications when there is a significant change in circumstances.


Our experienced attorney's will help you navigate how child support will impact your case and what is most beneficial for your child. 


Learn More

FREE GUIDE TO DIVORCE


THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DIVORCE AND CUSTODY IN VIRGINIA


GET YOUR FREE GUIDE NOW >

Everything You Need to Understand to

Better Navigate Child Custody and Support


At SMITH | ASHCRAFT we are here to get you through this chapter of your life. 

Your future starts NOW!

Custody and Visitation

Whether you are seeking sole custody, joint custody, or need help modifying an existing arrangement, we will advocate for a solution that supports your family’s unique needs.

Child Support

Child support is essential for providing the stability and resources your children need to thrive. Whether you are seeking to establish, enforce, or modify child support arrangements, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process with care and expertise.


Learn more about how child support is calculated and enforced.

Adoption

Adoption in Virginia is a legal process that involves several steps to ensure that the adoption is finalized and that the best interests of the child are met.


Learn more about the different types of adoption and how adoption can benefit for your family.

Grandparent and Third Party Rights

Virginia doesn’t specifically address statutory “grandparent rights.” Virginia does allow for “persons with legitimate interests” to file petitions for custody (decision-making power) and visitation (actual time with a child).



Learn more about third-party petitions and if it makes sense for your situation.

Child Name Change

There are situations in which a parent desires to change the name of their child.


Understand the process of a child's name change and how we can help.

Why choose us?

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that child support is essential for providing the stability and resources your children need to thrive. Whether you are seeking to establish, enforce, or modify child support arrangements, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process with care and expertise.


Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most—your family. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your child support case.

Why choose us?

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that child support is essential for providing the stability and resources your children need to thrive. Whether you are seeking to establish, enforce, or modify child support arrangements, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the process with care and expertise.


Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most—your family. Contact us today to learn how we can assist with your child support case.

Your fresh start, starts now!

Don't let your breakup break you, we are ready to get to work.

Your fresh start, starts now!

Don't let your breakup break you, we are ready to get to work.

Our Focus

Strategic Litigation

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we believe that every case deserves a tailored approach designed to achieve the best possible outcome. Our commitment to strategic litigation means we carefully assess each client's unique needs, set clear goals, and craft a precise, powerful legal strategy. From in-depth case analysis to rigorous advocacy, we employ our expertise and insights to navigate complexities, anticipate challenges, and pursue success at every step. Let us be the decisive advantage in your corner.

Aggressive Defense

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we don’t just defend—we fight. Our aggressive defense approach means we leave no stone unturned in challenging every aspect of the case against you. From thorough investigation to forceful courtroom advocacy, we take a proactive stance to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. When the stakes are high, you need a team that’s prepared to push back. Trust us to stand by you with a fierce commitment to your defense.

Thoughtful Planning

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that successful legal outcomes start with careful planning. Our approach is rooted in thoughtfulness, ensuring that every step of your case is meticulously analyzed to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities. Whether you’re navigating complex family matters, preparing for the future, or seeking resolution in sensitive disputes, our commitment to thoughtful, strategic planning gives you the confidence of a clear path forward. Let us help you make informed decisions today for a stronger tomorrow.

Helpful Articles

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January 8, 2025
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What Our Clients Have To Say

I had an excellent experience with Jacob Smith and his paralegal Christy Adams. They both were extremely knowledgeable, helpful, and very friendly too. They took the anxiety out of getting divorced and got it done for me very quickly and effectively. I am so glad that I found them!

Nancy H.

Very family oriented and you feel safe that you're being treated well and taken care of. I could not have done this without Drew.

Shelby H.

Jacob E. Smith is a careful, experienced lawyer. He is my go-to person when I have questions related to family law, divorce, and/or custody. I trust Jacob E. Smith

Nathan B.

Drew A. has been right by my side during this difficult time. Upfront, honest & consoling me thru this unexpected life change. I have no doubts that he will argue for what I deserve.

Karen A.

There's no where in Virginia that we don’t know

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we are proud to offer comprehensive legal services throughout Virginia. Whether you’re in Richmond, Northern Virginia, the far reaches of Roanoke, or any other part of the state, our experienced team is here to provide experienced representation tailored to your unique needs. No matter where you are in Virginia, we’re committed to delivering the same high level of service and dedication to each client, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves.



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