Virginia Divorce ~ Custody
There are specifics in the Commonwealth of Virginia when custody is chosen.
The court will always rule in favor of the best interest of the child or children involved during a divorce. Each case is unique.
The court will make judgements based upon each parents ability to :
1. Care for the child
2. Control and direct the child, use the best judgement when making decisions for the child
3. Home environment
4. The child's wishes if they are of an age to make such a decision on their own
Custody could possibly be given to someone who is not the birth parent. Custody is always subject to change considering the changes made to the household.
The parent who does not have custody will usually have a visitation set by the court if the parents cannot reach a decision on their own.
Source : Virginia State Code