What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

Legal custody is the right to make major decisions (school, medical, religion). Physical custody is where the child lives. Either can be shared (joint) or sole.

Can I modify an existing custody order?

Yes, usually by showing a material change in circumstances since the last order. This tool drafts a modification request.

Do both parents need to agree?

An agreed parenting plan is fastest. If you do not agree, you can still file a proposed plan for the court to consider.

Virginia Custody Agreement Forms

Create or modify a parenting plan and custody schedule.

Start your Virginia custody agreement forms

Virginia is already picked for you. Free preview - $9 to download the court-ready PDF.

A clear parenting plan reduces conflict and is what courts want to see. This tool drafts custody agreements, modifications, and visitation schedules addressing legal and physical custody, holidays, and communication.

Custody Agreement in Virginia: what the official sources say

Court: Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court handles these cases most often. source
The court gives primary consideration to the child’s best interests, and there is no presumption in favor of any form of custody. source

Official Virginia forms and instructions

Checked against the official sources on 2026-09-10. Court rules change, so confirm them before you file.

Before you file in Virginia, confirm

Which court hears custody in Virginia, and whether it requires a parenting class
The official Virginia parenting plan or custody form, if there is one
Whether mediation is required before a hearing
How long a child must live in Virginia before its courts can decide custody

The official Virginia court site below has the current answers.

Documents you can generate

Parenting plan with legal and physical custody terms
Visitation and holiday schedules
Custody modification requests
Best-interests-of-the-child framing

Official resources and free legal help

Pro Se Legal Docs is not a law firm and does not give legal advice. These templates help you prepare your own filing; they do not replace advice from a licensed Virginia attorney.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between legal and physical custody?: Legal custody is the right to make major decisions (school, medical, religion). Physical custody is where the child lives. Either can be shared (joint) or sole.
Can I modify an existing custody order?: Yes, usually by showing a material change in circumstances since the last order. This tool drafts a modification request.
Do both parents need to agree?: An agreed parenting plan is fastest. If you do not agree, you can still file a proposed plan for the court to consider.

Other Virginia forms

Eviction Defense Small Claims Debt Lawsuit Defense Divorce Domestic Violence Restraining Order Unpaid Wage Claim Civil Harassment Restraining Order Bankruptcy Schedule

Custody Agreement forms for every state

Ready to prepare your Virginia custody agreement forms?

Start now

This is a self-help document generator, not a law firm, and does not provide legal advice. Court rules and filing requirements in Virginia can change - confirm specifics with your local court clerk or a licensed attorney.