VIRGINIA Part 66

Exceptions to the "home state rule"

In some cases, you can file for custody in Virginia when it is not your child’s home state if you (or the other parent) and your child have a “significant connection” to Virginiaand substantial evidence is available in VA concerning the child's care, protection, training, and personal relationships.  Generally, however, you can only do this if no other state qualifies as your child’s home state, or if the home state has agreed to let Virginia have jurisdiction (power) over your case.***