Joint Custody Lawyer in Prince William County — What Are Your Options?
In Prince William County, Virginia, child custody is determined by the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 297 documented case results across all practice areas. A Joint Custody Lawyer Prince William County can help you build a strong case for shared parenting time.
Understanding Joint Custody Under Virginia Law
Virginia law defines joint custody as an arrangement where both parents share the responsibility for the care and control of their child. This can be joint legal custody, where both parents make major decisions, or joint physical custody, where the child spends significant time with each parent. The court’s primary focus is the best interests of the child, as outlined in Va. Code § 20-124.3. A joint legal and physical custody lawyer Prince William County can explain how these concepts apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Va. Code § 20-124.3 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Va. Code § 20-124.3 (Best Interests of the Child) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Prince William County General District Court — Official Court Website
Steps to Establish a Joint Custody Arrangement in Prince William County
- File a Petition: File a petition for custody in the Prince William County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
- Attend Mediation: Participate in court-ordered mediation to attempt to reach an agreement on custody and visitation.
- Complete a Parent Education Class: Virginia law requires parents in custody disputes to complete a court-approved parent education class.
- Present a Parenting Plan: Submit a detailed parenting plan outlining the proposed schedule for the child with each parent.
- Attend the Hearing: If no agreement is reached, present evidence to the judge to support your proposed custody arrangement.
In Prince William County, child custody is not a penalty but a determination of the child’s best interests. The court considers 10 factors under Va. Code § 20-124.3.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Parental Roles | Each parent’s past and future role in the child’s life. |
| Child’s Relationship | The child’s relationship with each parent and siblings. |
| Child’s Needs | The child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs. |
| Parental Ability | Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs. |
| History of Abuse | Any history of family abuse or violence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Joint Custody Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep understanding of Virginia family law. Our firm has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. A Joint Custody Lawyer Prince William County from our team can provide the case-specific approach you need.
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, who brings his experience as a former prosecutor and his personal amendment of Va. Code § 20-107.3 to every family law case.
Our Track Record in Prince William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 297 total documented case results across all practice areas in Prince William County, with a 97% favorable outcome rate. This includes numerous successful custody and family law matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Visit Our Location Serving Prince William County
Our Fairfax location is a short drive from the Prince William County courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We serve clients in Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
Looking for a shared custody arrangement lawyer Prince William County? We are near the Prince William County Courthouse area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Custody in Prince William County
How is joint custody decided in Prince William County, Virginia?
Yes, the court decides based on the best interests of the child under Va. Code § 20-124.3. The court considers 10 factors, including each parent’s role and the child’s relationship with each parent.
Can I get joint custody if the other parent disagrees?
It depends. The court can order joint custody even if one parent objects, if it is in the child’s best interests. However, a contested case requires strong evidence and legal representation.
What is the difference between joint legal and joint physical custody?
Joint legal custody means both parents share decision-making about the child’s education, healthcare, and welfare. Joint physical custody means the child spends significant time living with each parent.
How long does a joint custody case take in Prince William County?
It depends. An agreed-upon custody arrangement can be finalized in a few months. A contested case with a trial can take 6 to 12 months or longer, depending on court schedules.
Do I need a lawyer for a joint custody case?
Yes, it is strongly recommended. A lawyer can help you prepare a strong parenting plan, gather evidence, and present your case effectively in court to protect your parental rights.
- Virginia Family Law Lawyer
- Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer
- Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.