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HB 890

Best interests of the child; assuring frequent and continuing contact with both parents.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Earley

Virginia bill establishes "frequent and continuing contact with both parents" as a statutory best-interest factor in child custody determinations, potentially increasing shared custody arrangements.

Left in Courts of Justice
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Bill Summary · HB 890

Legislative bill overview

HB 890 proposes to amend Virginia's child custody laws to establish that "frequent and continuing contact with both parents" is a key factor in determining the best interests of a child. The bill would codify this principle into statute, potentially shifting how courts weigh parental involvement in custody decisions.

Why is this important

Custody determinations directly affect millions of children and families, influencing living arrangements, financial support, and emotional wellbeing. This bill would standardize judicial consideration of both-parent involvement, which could increase shared custody arrangements and reshape how Virginia courts approach family law cases.

Potential points of contention

  • Domestic violence concerns: Critics worry the emphasis on "both parents" contact may not adequately protect children in cases involving abuse or restraining orders, potentially pressuring courts to grant access to unsafe parents
  • One-size-fits-all approach: The bill may oversimplify complex family situations where frequent contact with both parents isn't feasible or appropriate (parental relocation, severe alienation, parental incapacity)
  • Implementation ambiguity: The bill lacks clear definitions of "frequent and continuing contact" and how courts should balance this factor against other best-interest considerations, creating potential for inconsistent application

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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