If you’ve been the victim of an act involving violence, force, or threats that results in bodily injury or places you in reasonable fear of death, sexual assault, or bodily harm, you may be able to immediately file for emergency custody and a protective order to protect yourself and your family members including your children. Violating a protective order is a criminal offense in Virginia.
You or a third-party with a legitimate interest (including but not limited to grandparents, step-grandparents, stepparents, former stepparents, blood relatives and family members) may also file for custody and visitation on a non-emergency basis.
Additionally, modifying and enforcing existing court orders may be possible. In Virginia, knowingly, wrongfully, and intentionally violating a custody or visitation order is considered a criminal offense.
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