Ep104: Your Custody Case Starts Before Court with Virginia Family Law Attorney Whitney Pennington

A custody case can begin long before filing: an angry message, social post, or tense exchange may shape how a judge sees a parent. Krista talks with Virginia family law attorney Whitney Pennington about choices that shape a family’s record. Go here to listen → https://childrenfirstfamilylaw.com/yo... Pennington urges parents to pause before replying, keep communication respectful, avoid involving children, and answer hostile messages without escalating. Sarcasm, profanity, threats, repeated texts, and labels such as “narcissist” can damage credibility. When past conduct is raised, she says, acknowledge it honestly, explain what you learned, and show steps taken to change. The conversation also covers choosing mediation where possible, documenting incidents and parenting time, and keeping records of child support payments and missed amounts. Pennington stresses that local laws differ, including rules for ending support obligations. Listeners will hear how calmer communication, accountability, and careful recordkeeping can protect children, reduce conflict, and help parents prepare for court. In this episode, you will hear: -How pre-court conduct can shape a custody case -Keeping texts, emails, and social media posts calm -Taking responsibility for past mistakes and showing change -Avoiding conflict and keeping children out of adult disputes -Using mediation and documenting parenting time -Keeping clear records of child support payments and missed amounts Chapter 00:00 - Meet Attorney Whitney Pennington 02:51 - Compassionate divorce mediation 06:05 - Accountability builds credibility Resources from this Episode https://natlawreview.com/commentary-a... www.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com Get Your Free Guide - Discover How Colorado Families Are Saving Thousands in Legal Fees While Protecting Their Children's Emotional Well-Being During Divorce: https://go.childrenfirstfamilylaw.com... All states have different laws; be sure you are checking out your state laws specifically surrounding divorce. Krista is a licensed attorney in Colorado and Wyoming, but is not providing through this podcast legal advice. Please be sure to seek independent legal counsel in your area for your specific situation. Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you. #Divorce #FamilyLaw #CoParenting #ChildCustody #CustodyTips