Your children are your everything, which makes child custody cases the hardest things parents ever have to face. Acknowledging this, our child custody attorneys who understand the sensitive nature of child custody battles are here for you.
We fight hard to safeguard the rights of our clients and their children, making sure they are treated fairly under Washington state laws. If you're facing a child custody battle, here's what you need to know.
Know Your Parental Rights In Snohomish CountyA Snohomish County county court will have jurisdiction over your child custody case if it meets one or more of the following conditions:
In Snohomish County, parental rights are protected under the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 26.16.125, which states that both parents of a child have equal rights and responsibilities, meaning both parents have a right to fight for custody of their children.
How Do Washington Courts Award Custody?In Marysville, Washington, family courts decide child custody based on the child’s best interests, which is outlined in RCW 26.11.040.
Part of the custody arrangement is to develop a permanent parenting plan that meets the child's physical and emotional needs. This document minimizes the need for future modifications, encourages parental responsibility, and protects the child's welfare.
Washington courts consider many factors when awarding custody, including:
The details of these factors determine the parenting plan.
Determining Your Parenting Plan In MarysvilleIn Washington State, a parenting plan typically encompasses important things like:
The goal of a permanent parenting plan is to minimize children's exposure to harmful parental conflict and encourage parents to meet their responsibilities through agreements rather than judicial intervention, with the child's best interests in mind.
As outlined in RCW 26.09.015, the parenting plan can usually be decided between the parents or through mediation proceedings. However, in complex or contentious cases, child custody cases may need to be settled in court.
When Is It Time To Hire An Attorney Who Specializes In Child Custody?To ensure you and your children's rights are fully protected, hiring a child custody lawyer is crucial. They will guide you through the paperwork, deadlines, and procedures to meet all legal requirements and avoid potentially costly mistakes, helping you navigate the overwhelming and complex Washington legal system.
Consider working with a Marysville attorney who specializes in child custody in the following situations:
1. At The Start Of The Divorce Or SeparationIf you are initiating a separation or divorce and children are involved, it's wise to consult a custody lawyer immediately. Child custody attorneys ensure you understand your parental rights and what to expect throughout the custody process.
2. During Complex Or Hostile SituationsYou need an attorney if you anticipate a contentious custody battle or if your situation involves complex legal issues like parental relocation, abuse allegations, or international custody laws.
3. When Your Parental Rights Are ChallengedFor parents whose rights are threatened or who face false accusations that could affect their custody rights, a lawyer’s assistance can be crucial in protecting their interests.
4. When You Need To Enforce Or Modify Custody OrdersIf you need help enforcing a custody order or modifying an existing one due to changed circumstances, a lawyer can effectively present your case to the court.
5. When There Are Changes In CircumstancesSuppose you or your ex-partner experience significant changes in circumstances like a remarriage, job loss, or relocation that impact custody arrangements. In this case, a lawyer can help navigate these changes legally and fairly.
6. When You Reach An Agreement Over The Parenting PlanEven in amicable separations, having a lawyer review any agreement before you sign it is always beneficial. Child custody attorneys ensure the agreement serves your child's best interests and protects your parental rights.
Ultimately, whenever you feel unsure about the custody process or your ability to handle it alone, seeking a child custody lawyer's advice can provide clarity, peace of mind, and a pathway to securing the best possible outcome for your family.
Your Marysville Washington Child Custody Attorney FAQs AnsweredWith years of experience representing clients in Marysville, our attorneys are here to address all your queries. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about child custody in Marysville:
A: While Washington law does not set a specific age for a child to choose which parent to live with, the court may consider the child's preference if they are mature enough. To determine the child's best interests, the judge will weigh this preference and other factors.
A: In Washington, a child custody case’s duration depends on its complexity, the level of agreement between the parents, and the court's schedule, with timelines varying from a few months to over a year. Your child custody attorney will provide a more accurate period based on your situation.
A: Legal custody refers to the right to make significant decisions about your child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious training, while physical custody involves where the child lives. Washington courts can award joint or sole custody, both legal and physical, based on what is best for the child.
A: When determining custody in Washington, the same criteria apply to unmarried and divorced parents. The child's best interests are the primary concern. However, the father must establish paternity to seek custody rights.
A: Yes, you can request your custody order to be modified in Washington if there has been a significant change in circumstances that impact the child's welfare. Examples include relocation, changes in the parent's lifestyle, or the child's needs. Your child custody attorney will file a petition and present your case to the court.
A: If the other parent violates your custody agreement in Washington, document the violations and contact an attorney immediately. You may need to file a motion with the court to enforce the order. In severe cases, it might lead to modifying the custody agreement or legal action against the violating parent.
As child custody attorneys who live and work in Marysville, we're always available to answer your questions. Whether you are in the process of separating or need to amend your existing child custody arrangement in Snohomish County, our legal team has your back.
With our experience in the Snohomish County courts, we'll fight to protect your and your child's rights through these challenging times. Contact our law firm today to understand your options under Washington law.