James Short
Child Custody Lawyer
A native of Portsmouth, Virginia, James graduated, cum laude, from the University of Richmond in 1983 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He received his law degree in 1986 from the Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary. After graduating, James was admitted to the Virginia State Bar. He started his career as a prosecutor in the role of Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Portsmouth and held that position for four years. He has been in private practice since 1991.
James is admitted to practice before the U. S. District Court, Eastern District of Virginia, and is a member of the American Bar Association. He was very active in the Chesapeake Bar Association where he served as President in 2007. His most coveted professional goal was realized on October 14, 2008, when he was admitted to the Bar of the United States Supreme Court. He was sworn-in to practice before the Court by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr.
James stays involved in the community. He was the chairman of the Chesapeake Law Library Board in 2011. He previously held the position of Chairman of the Chesapeake Regional Local Human Rights Committee for three years. He is also the past president of the Portsmouth Optimist Club and a former board member of Girls Incorporated. Additionally, he is past president of the Portsmouth Sports Club. Currently, he holds the position of Treasurer of the Portsmouth Sports Club Foundation, whose mission is to provide annual scholarships to deserving local high school student-athletes.
Lu Aloupas
Child Custody Lawyer
My goal as an attorney is to help people resolve their legal problems and move on with their lives. Whether it is a painful divorce, custody dispute, or the possibility of a criminal conviction and incarceration, I work closely with my clients to help them obtain the most favorable results given the facts of their case.
I handle criminal defense, traffic and DUI/DWI cases, plus contested divorce, child custody, child and spousal support matters, and both criminal and family law appeals.
I am admitted to practice in all Virginia Courts, as well as the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Whether you are facing the possibility of a criminal conviction, have just been served with a complaint for divorce, or want to modify your child support obligation, I will work diligently to protect your interests and obtain the most favorable results for your specific circumstances.
Darrell M. Harding
Child Custody Lawyer
Darrell M. Harding, founding partner at Darrell M. Harding Attorney At Law, PLC brings more than two decades of experience to the courtroom and negotiating table for every client he represents. Over the years, he has built a reputation for effective, trustworthy legal representation and ethical service. He wants every client he represents to understand that, while the family and legal issues they are enduring may seem overwhelming, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. You can and will make it through the process with your future intact. Darrell M. Harding combines compassion for his clients with the wisdom and experience that make him a formidable adversary.
Darrell M. Harding has practiced family law in the Norfolk, Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads area since 1988 after earning his J.D., and graduating at the top of his class, from the J. Reuben Clark Law School at Brigham Young University. He served as legal and political chairman over the civil law division from 1987 to 1988, as negotiator forum vice president in 1988 and on the Law Review.
He was a moderator for a family law forum at Regent University and has published an article on grandparent custody and rights.
Wayne E. Holcomb
Child Custody Lawyer
Like many of you, I ain’t from around these parts…! I was stationed here as a Navy pilot, and when I retired, I became a Virginia resident. I think life is good in Hampton Roads. My own small hometown in Kansas has now grown to a bustling population of 331, but it was less urban in my youth! My Midwestern family has been farmers and blue collar workers for as far back as we know.
I grew up in farm houses without indoor plumbing. Yep, so imagine where the “bathroom” was! (Winters were cold; that’s where I got my speed!) We had party line phones early on. No A/C. Then we moved to into a trailer house “in town.” I see now that, as far as amenities go, I was about a generation behind the rest of America, but it was not until I went to college, and saw what others had, that I realized how rural and poor we were. I really didn’t care. Still don’t.
Nearly everything I know that matters today I learned in church. I learned about service, that God is concerned about people who are hurting, and we should be too. I learned that we all have a destiny, a “calling,” for which we were born and built to achieve for God’s glory and our personal fulfillment. We all do.
I attended Oral Roberts University for my undergraduate degree. There I served as a Wing Chaplain and a Resident Advisor and lead missionary teams to various parts of the world in the summers. I became the first person in my family ever to graduate from college. I am not sure if my Mom cried because I graduated or because the tuition payments were coming to an end! My grandparents drove down to Tulsa; it was a big deal.
Jennifer E. Peterson
Child Custody Lawyer
Ms. Peterson graduated from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2005. After graduating, she was admitted to the practice of law in the State of Georgia in 2006 and in the Commonwealth of Virginia in 2007. Ms. Peterson has been a certified Guardian Ad Litem since 2008, zealously representing the best interest of children. She focuses her practice to the area of family law.
When it comes to family matters, situations involving the military are close to Jennifer Peterson’s heart. She is a military spouse, which gives her an insider’s understanding of military domestic relations matters. Jennifer cares for each of her clients, and she proudly offers her legal advice with a personal touch.
Contact us to work with Jennifer Peterson for your divorce or other situations. We proudly provide military-friendly support throughout Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk, VA.
Anthony Montagna, III
Child Custody Lawyer
Anthony was born on August 19, 1968 at Camp LeJeune, North Carolina. After several months, Anthony and his family moved to Norfolk, Virginia, his father’s home town.
Anthony graduated from Norfolk Academy in 1986. After graduation, Anthony attended and graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. At the University of Richmond, Anthony was awarded Intermediate Honors and was a proud member of the the Dean’s List. After graduating from the University of Richmond, Anthony attended and graduated from The University of Akron School of Law in 1993. Upon graduating from law school, Anthony joined his father as a partner at Montagna & Montagna, P.C.
In his free time, Anthony enjoys travelling, reading, watching and playing sports, and spending time with his family. He particularly enjoys spending time with his daughter, Phoebe, who is 14 and attends Norfolk Academy.
With Anthony L. Montagna, III, you can be confident that you have an experienced, professional family, traffic and criminal attorney on your side. Anthony will fight to protect you and your family. He knows that every case is important to you, and he will battle for you in court.
Navigating the Chesapeake Bay’s Currents: Why You Need the Best Child Custody Lawyers in Chesapeake
Chesapeake, Virginia, a thriving city nestled along the Chesapeake Bay, boasts a rich maritime history and a strong sense of community. Yet, sometimes life’s currents shift, and families face the complexities of separation or divorce, leading to child custody arrangements. During these emotionally charged situations, securing the services of the best child custody lawyers in Chesapeake can make a world of difference. This comprehensive guide explores the invaluable benefits of retaining a skilled legal professional to ensure your children’s well-being and advocate passionately for your parental rights within the framework of Virginia child custody law.
Understanding Virginia Child Custody Law: Charting a Course for Your Children’s Future
Virginia prioritizes the “best interests of the child” when determining child custody arrangements. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of various factors, including:
- The child’s age, physical and mental health, and emotional well-being.
- The child’s relationship with each parent and any siblings.
- Each parent’s parenting ability, including stability, financial resources, and living environment.
- The history of any domestic violence or child abuse.
Understanding these factors and navigating the legalities of child custody proceedings requires a deep understanding of Virginia’s legal landscape. Here’s where the best child custody lawyers in Chesapeake become your guiding light:
- Understanding Your Rights and Options: Facing child custody issues can be overwhelming. A lawyer explains your legal rights and explores all available options, including sole custody, joint custody, and visitation arrangements. They guide you towards the course of action that best prioritizes your children’s needs and your parental rights.
- Building a Strong Case for Your Children: A skilled lawyer diligently gathers evidence to support your position as a fit and capable parent. This evidence can include character witnesses, school reports, financial documentation, evidence of your involvement in your children’s lives, and potentially, child custody evaluations by professionals.
- Effective Communication and Negotiation: Child custody lawyers are adept at communicating effectively with opposing counsel, mediators, and judges. They can negotiate a fair and sustainable custody agreement that minimizes conflict and maximizes stability for your children.
- Protecting Your Interests in Mediation: Mediation can be a valuable tool for reaching an amicable agreement outside of court. While it involves compromise, a lawyer ensures your interests and your children’s well-being are protected throughout the mediation process.
- Litigation Expertise: If a settlement isn’t possible, a lawyer provides effective representation in court, fiercely advocating for a custody arrangement that prioritizes your children’s best interests and your parental rights.
Beyond Legal Expertise: The Qualities of Top-Tier Child Custody Lawyers in Chesapeake
Not all child custody lawyers are created equal. Here are the key qualities to consider when selecting the best advocate for your situation in Chesapeake:
- Extensive Experience in Virginia Child Custody Law: Virginia has specific child custody laws and court procedures. A lawyer with a proven track record of handling child custody cases in Chesapeake understands the nuances of local law and can effectively navigate the legal process on your behalf.
- Compassion and Understanding: Child custody matters are often emotionally charged. Your lawyer should be empathetic to your situation and provide support as you navigate this challenging period.
- Client-Centered Approach: The best child custody lawyers prioritize understanding your unique circumstances, goals, and concerns for your children. They work collaboratively with you to develop a legal strategy that aligns with your priorities and your children’s best interests.
- Effective Communication and Accessibility: Clear and consistent communication is essential. A top-tier lawyer keeps you informed throughout the process, answers your questions promptly, and addresses your concerns with empathy and understanding.
- Competitive Fees and Flexible Payment Structures: Child custody lawyers offer various fee structures, including hourly rates or retainer agreements. Discuss fees upfront to ensure transparency and explore options that fit your financial situation.
Finding the Right Advocate: Resources for Legal Representation in Chesapeake
- Seek Recommendations: Talk to friends, family, or colleagues who have faced child custody issues and inquire about their lawyers.
- Virginia Bar Association: Contact the Virginia Bar Association for referrals to qualified child custody attorneys in Chesapeake.
- Portsmouth Bar Association: The Portsmouth Bar Association, neighboring Chesapeake, can also offer referral services for legal representation.
- Online Resources: Several online legal directories allow you to search for child custody lawyers in Chesapeake based on location, experience, client reviews, and areas of expertise in family law.