It is not at all uncommon for parents dealing with child custody cases to enter the courtroom with preconceived notions of what will happen next. When meeting with their lawyers, divorcing individuals start by listing the factors that are extremely crucial to the custody of the child. Some of those factors are genuinely important, while others might not be as critical. To properly handle the cases related to child custody, the courts in Virginia are bound to follow the factors mentioned in the Virginia Code Section 20-124.3. These factors are not exclusive, and they apply to all areas of child custody.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common myths about child custody in Virginia.
Myth #1: Social Media Information Isn’t Admissible
One of the most common myths about child custody cases is that information from social media isn’t admissible. Contrary to popular belief, information that is legally obtained from the social media accounts of the parents is perfectly admissible in the court of law. Such information is extremely useful when proving a point, enhancing credibility, and debunking false allegations.
Myth # 2: The Mother Has a Higher Likelihood of Getting the Custody
Another common myth about child custody cases in Virginia is that the mother is more likely to get the child’s custody. Most people believe that if there is a conflict going on between the spouses, the court will provide the mother with child’s custody out of pure empathy, which is not the case. In reality, the family court remains unbiased of gender and reaches a conclusion based on pure rationality and reason. The reason why mothers manage to win the case is that most fathers are less prepared to support their claim, and provide for their kids in case they get the custody.
Myth # 3: Teenagers Are Given the Option to Choose Between Parents
Teenagers are allowed to voice their opinion, but this is only partially true. Teenage kids are allowed to express their preference of who they would like to stay with. However, it is for the court to decide who gets the custody, depending on the child’s preference. They can express their desire, but it’s the court that decides, not the children. The decision will depend heavily upon the evidence provided by both the parties.
Myth # 4: One Can Get Away With False Allegations of Abuse
Some divorce cases can get nasty. To get back at each other, the divorcing parents try to seize custody of the child. To tilt the things in their favor, they resort to false allegations of child abuse. However, if these allegations are found to be false, the alleging party is fined. Furthermore, they lose their right to child custody, as well as their right to appeal.
These were some of the most common child custody myths in Virginia. If you are on the lookout for a professional and seasoned child custody attorney in Virginia, then Coastal Virginia Law Firm is your best bet. To get in touch with our professionals, feel free to visit our website or call now at 888-402-7117.