Alike many other US states, and as per the Uniform Child Custody and Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, West Virginia, child custody laws also allow joint custody and visitation rights to grandparents.

Though West Virginia courts accept custody agreements that divorcing parents have mutually agreed to but in case they cannot, then the court can hold a hearing to decide the child custody arrangements.

Child custody in West Virginia determines by considering the best interest of the child coupled with diverse factors that include:

• Stability and willingness of the child

• Custodian’s emotional attachment

• Security from the exposure to physical and emotional harms

• The ability of the child to adjust to the surroundings, school, and community

• The willingness of the custodian to establish frequent and continuous relations with the other parent and siblings

Child custody matters can be complicated both – emotionally and legally. Before applying for child custody, you must understand the associated laws and procedures well. However, the laws can be tricky to understand. Moreover, you need to learn about your rights, hence assisting an expert child custody attorney.