How Virginia Courts rule on grandparent’s rights varies from case to case, depending on the individual circumstances involved. It is understandable that grandparents who form close bonds with grandchildren want to maintain ongoing contact through visitation. When conflicts arise between parents and grandparents, a Virginia Beach grandparent custody attorney can help you resolve your issues.

Several Virginia statutes mention grandparents along with parents and loosely define how grandparents may be involved in relationships with their grand children. Virginia statute § 20-124.1 defines a "person with a legitimate interest" saying it "shall be broadly construed and includes, but is not limited to grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relative and family members provided any such party has intervened in the suit or is otherwise property before the court. The term shall be broadly construed to accommodate the best interest of the child." Virginia statute Code § 20-124.2(B) goes on to say, "The court shall give due regard to the primacy of the parent-child relationship but may upon a showing by clear and convincing evidence that the best interest of the child would be served thereby award custody or visitation to any other person with a legitimate interest." So, while courts give parents first priority, which the law calls primacy, the best interests of the child are a strong factor in awarding visitation rights.

Chesapeake grandparent custody attorneys can use their in-depth understanding of the Virginia statutes, case laws and facts that show convincing evidence to argue for what is in the best interests of the child and protect your rights as grandparents. 

Darrell M. Harding has extensive experience dealing with custody, visitation and other divorce issues.

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Virginia Beach: 757-499-2600
Chesapeake: 757-401-6804
Norfolk: 757-512-8393

Testimonials

"In every case Mr. Harding takes, he strives to provide his clients with the highest level of legal service. If you choose Darrell M. Harding Attorney At Law, PLC to represent you, you can expect to receive experienced legal guidance and be treated with the utmost courtesy and respect at all times."

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Our Offices

  • Virginia Beach Office

    Address

    5366 Virginia Beach Boulevard, AAA Building.,
    Suite 301,
    Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462

  • Chesapeake Office

    Address

    2010 Old Greenbrier Road,
    Suite L,
    Chesapeake, Virginia 23320

    Phone

    757-401-6804

  • Norfolk Office

    Address

    1500 E Little Creek Road,
    Suite 309,
    Norfolk, Virginia 23518

    Phone

    757-512-8393

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  • google
    5.0/5.0

    They handle my divorce in like 2 months and they took payment arrangements they were amazing I appreciate them

    — jezzy 25

  • lawyers
    5.0/5.0

    Mr. Harding was able to get everything I wanted in my case with less than 4 hours notice to be at court as I didn't retain until the day of court. Fantastic lawyer would recommend to anyone in need of an attorney

    — Client

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    For such a difficult subject, Mr. Harding made this as simple as possible. He never pressured me but guided me to make the best decisions for myself and my child. He also encouraged communication between myself and my ex to settle things mo...
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    — T.J. K

  • lawyers
    5.0/5.0

    Mr. Harding took his time to answer any questions that I had. Even in my fears, he consistently had a professional, yet confident demeanor that put me at ease. He never pressured me, always encouraged an open communication between myself an...
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    — Client

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    Thomas has been absolutely heaven-sent in my family law case. He has gone above and beyond and is quick to answer any questions that I have whether it be by email, phone call, or in person. I have recommended him to several of my friends an...
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    — Jessica Schwind