Child Custody

The main objective of Washington courts in a child custody action is that the parenting plan and custody decision be in the best interests of the child involved. If parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, then the court considers all of the relevant factors and establishes a plan for them. The order would require parents to provide for the child’s physical and emotional well being, and minimize the child’s exposure to harmful conflict between the parents. The plan would also include the limits of each parent’s authority and responsibility, the child's residential schedule, and a provision for how the parents will settle future disagreements.

Either parent may ask the court for a modification in the permanent parenting plan if a substantial change occurs or if the modification would be in the best interests of the child. If either of the parents wants to move, and that move would affect the parenting plan, then they must file a petition for modification. The judge would look to see if the move was a substantial change in circumstances and whether it is in the best interest of the child to relocate with the parent.

While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. The best way to gain guidance on your specific legal issue is to contact a lawyer. No attorney-client relationship is created based on information in this website.