Child Custody Support in Fairfax, VA, Through the Divorce Process and Beyond
When parties have minor children, custody and parenting plans are part of your divorce process. As a Fairfax family law firm, we work with parents in various processes, including the Collaborative divorce process and mediation.
Whether you are establishing an initial custody agreement or addressing an ongoing child custody dispute, our role is to provide clear legal counsel that reflects your family law needs and the realities of your situation.
Under Virginia law, custody decisions are guided by the best interests of the child. That standard considers multiple factors including the child’s needs, each parent’s ability to provide care, and the importance of healthy relationships with both parents.
Our role as a child custody lawyer in Fairfax, VA is to help you understand how Virginia law approaches custody issues, present relevant information clearly, and work toward a custody arrangement that supports stability and long-term success for your family.
Aspects of Child Custody We Address
Positive Pathways has extensive experience supporting clients in all aspects of child custody matters through the Collaborative Process, mediation, and negotiation, including:
- Physical Custody
- Legal Custody
- Parenting Plans
- Co-Parenting arrangements
- Dispute resolution processes
- Modifications to an existing court order when circumstances change
- Special circumstances of military families
Each family law case is handled with care, discretion, and attention to the children’s best interests.
Child custody matters can also overlap with other family law issues we support, such as spousal support, child support, division of assets, and allocation of debts. If you are looking for a Collaborative family law lawyer, we can help you explore your options, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Why Work With a Fairfax Child Custody Lawyer?
Parents often seek legal counsel during child custody matters because they want clarity during difficult times. Working with an experienced Fairfax child custody lawyer provides:
- Clear guidance grounded in Virginia law
- Support navigating custody disputes and legal issues
- Help developing parenting plans that work in real life
- A thoughtful approach that considers long-term outcomes, not just short-term wins
For many families, having a steady legal advocate helps reduce uncertainty and stress during an already challenging period.
About Positive Pathways: a Family Attorney You Can Trust
Positive Pathways is a Fairfax-based family law firm focused on helping individuals and families navigate family law matters with care and intention.
Christine Hissong is an experienced family law attorney with years of experience handling child custody cases across Northern Virginia. She works directly with clients and prioritizes the attorney-client relationship, providing personal attention and clear legal guidance throughout the process.
In addition to child custody matters, Positive Pathways also supports Premarital or Prenuptial Agreements and Postnuptial or Marital Agreements through the Collaborative Process and mediation.
Her work is recognized by Best Lawyers, and her practice emphasizes resolution, fairness, and protecting the well-being of children and families.
Areas Served
Positive Pathways works with clients throughout Northern Virginia, including:
- Fairfax County
- Falls Church
- Prince William County
- Arlington County
- Loudoun County
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of custody are recognized under Virginia law?
Under Virginia law, there are two main types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Each may be awarded jointly or solely. These types of custody are defined in the applicable Virginia Code section and provide the legal framework used when addressing child custody matters.
Do I need to go to court for child custody matters?
No, custody matters do not require traditional divorce lawyers or litigation (court). Families may work with Collaborative Fairfax family law attorneys or mediators, like Positive Pathways, to resolve custody issues through the Collaborative Process, mediation, or negotiation.
Can custody arrangements involve extended family members?
In some cases, extended family may be considered when relevant to the care of the child, particularly if family members play an active role in the child’s life or provide meaningful support.
What should I expect when working with your legal team?
You will work directly with an experienced attorney who focuses on thoughtful, child-centered solutions. At Positive Pathways, we prioritize clear communications, practical guidance, and respectful problem-solving rather than adversarial approaches. Former clients have valued the steady, personal attention provided throughout their process.
Schedule a Consultation with a Fairfax Family Lawyer
If you are looking for a child custody lawyer in Fairfax, VA, Positive Pathways offers representation in the Collaborative Process as well as mediation, and through both processes, the focus is on protecting your child’s best interests and helping your family move forward towards the best possible outcome.
To get started, reach out on our contact page or schedule a process call. We’ll discuss your situation, explain next steps, and help you determine the best path forward.