Orders Study of Child Custody Abuse Procedures
Virginia · HB839 · Introduced Jan 13, 2026
Why it matters
The bill does not change custody rules yet. It sets up a study that could lead to changes for abuse survivors in custody cases later.
What it does
- Creates a work group to study custody cases where family abuse is alleged
- Work group must review ideas like paid legal help for abuse survivors and judge training
- Includes at least three survivors of family abuse and at least two guardians ad litem
- Work group must report its findings to courts committees by November 1, 2026
Status
Latest action (2026-07-21): Continued from last session
About this bill
Would have the Judicial Council of Virginia form a work group to study how child custody cases handle family abuse victims. The group must report its findings by November 1, 2026.
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Survivor and legal aid groups would likely say the study could fix unfair custody outcomes. They would argue survivors need a voice in these cases.
💬 The case against
Some family law groups would likely say the study could be one-sided. They may argue that judges and custody rules already work well.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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