Practical Advice: Basics of Separation Agreements, Support, Custody, and Visitation

Custody, visitation, and support are some of the most common matters that family law practitioners will deal with throughout their careers. While these contested issues can be addressed in a litigation setting, they are more often resolved through a negotiated settlement agreement prepared by counsel and signed by the parties.

Our speaker, an experienced family law practitioner, helps attendees learn to navigate the basics of custody, visitation, child support, and spousal support as well as how to properly draft effective language to resolve these disputed issues when preparing a settlement agreement for the client’s signature. The presentation focuses on avoiding pitfalls often seen in the drafting of these clauses as well as suggested practice tips for achieving the best possible results for your client.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Harris W. Leiner, Barnes & Diehl, PC / Richmond

Harris W. Leiner is an equity shareholder with Barnes & Diehl, PC, and has been in private practice since graduating from the University of Richmond, T.C. Williams School of law in 2001. During that time Mr. Leiner has always focused on the area of family law. Representing clients in the Court of Appeals, Circuit Courts, and Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts across the Commonwealth of Virginia, he has earned a reputation as skilled negotiator and litigator. This has resulted in Mr. Leiner being named to the Virginia Business magazine’s Legal Elite as well as SuperLawyers each year from 2010 forward.

In addition to his dedication to providing zealous representation for his clients, Mr. Leiner has taken a significant amount of time over the years to give back to the community. Specifically, he acted as head coach for the YMCA Cross Country Program for 3 years and has been honored as a charity event organizer for the Make a Wish Foundation, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, and LINC (Legal Information Network for Cancer). He is an avid Florida Gators fan, spent 15 years playing bass guitar with local cover band Sloth Loves Chunk, and has recently become an enthusiastic fan of four wheeling.

Mr. Leiner lives in Richmond with his wife and two children and feels that his experience as a dedicated husband and father help him to better understand and effectively represent clients going through family law cases. He says, “I recognize that every family case is unique and requires a personalized approach to its resolution. It is my sincere goal to help people get through the process in as favorable a manner as possible.”