Virginia Bill Proposes Drastic Changes To Custody In Divorce Actions
There may soon be a change in visitation rights when Virginia couples file for divorce.
A bill in play at the General Assembly would take away a judge's power to establish a parent's visitation schedule. Some Virginia parents believe the current system is unfair. Parents spoke out Wednesday, saying they want a new law to establish fair visitation guidelines for parents going through divorce. Proponents of the bill say it would also drastically reduce attorney's fees. The bill would establish guidelines for judges during divorce proceedings.
The guidelines include giving the parent who doesn't have custody of the children the 1st, 3rd and 5th weekends of every month. This parent would also get the children overnight on Thursdays, and half of national and school holidays, as well as half of summer vacation. The judge may award less than the guidelines but only for specific reasons.
The bill is being heard in both the House and the Senate. Similar legislation has already been passed in Texas. Advocates of the bill say it will benefit children by giving them significant time with both parents.
