Modifying Child Custody in Everett

Child custody issues are often some of the most sensitive aspects of divorces to overcome. Even after an Everett divorce is completed, problems may sometimes arise that cause a parent to seek modifications to a custody agreement. This action can cause resentment and animosity when old wounds are reopened, but Washington State family law requires that Everett parents work together with the best interests of their children in mind. This may prove problematic for some parents, which is why help from experienced Everett child custody modification lawyers can be helpful.

Many important decisions that must be made when determining how to raise a child, including visitation and residential placement. Sometimes, one parent thinks a change in the custody agreement is best for the child, while the other disagrees entirely. No matter which side of the issue you currently face, you shouldn't take any action until you speak with one of our qualified Everett family law lawyers.

Parents want what's best for their children, but our Everett custody attorneys have seen firsthand that parents don't always agree on the definition of "best." Snohomish County custody modification negotiations require an atmosphere of civility between both parties, because failure to do so could motivate the court to make its own judgments regarding the future of your kids.

Your modified custody agreement will ultimately need to be approved in Everett family court, so keeping heated emotions in check aids in achieving a reasonable agreement. One of the primary goals of our Everett family law lawyers is to protect your personal interests while urging you to maintain focus on what is truly important throughout this difficult process.

Since custody modifications require an alteration to a parenting plan, you are required to petition the court. You can petition as the noncustodial parent if you want to become the custodial parent, or if you want to alter time your child spends with the other parent.

Simply changing time spent with the other parent so they can attend a holiday is considered a minor modification. If you're seeking full time custody, it's considered a major modification. You will need to explain to the court why you want to make the modification. If the other parent challenges the modification then you may have to to trial to pursue the action.

For a major modification, you must show that there has been a substantial change in the child's life. This may not be easy. One example of a substantial change would be to show that the child's current living arrangement is not safe, which may move a judge to accept your request.

With so many variables to consider, you need to work with a Snohomish County family law lawyer who is familiar with the courts and can help you prove your case to a judge.

Even the best intentions sometimes fail, and negotiations with an ex-spouse stall or become contentious. Our Everett child custody modification attorneys work with you in an effort to find some way of reaching an amicable agreement with your ex-spouse, which may not be easy. If all else fails, it may be necessary to involve the Everett Family Court.

Bitterly contested custody modification hearings can take a significant emotional toll on everyone involved; even your children. Before taking any action, it makes sense to thoroughly develop a plan that minimizes confrontation, with help from one of our compassionate Everett child custody modification lawyers.

Washington State family law judges want to incur the least amount of disruption in a child's life, so once they render a final decision, both parents must agree to any changes in the child custody agreement. Only a significant or dramatic change in one parent’s situation can alter this final decision of a judge.

By contacting one of our Everett custody attorneys today you can enjoy a free consultation. This is a valuable opportunity to allow our team of Everett attorneys to help you define family law issues involving child custody. With more than 50 years of collective experience handling all sorts of family law cases, our Everett custody attorneys are well-equipped to help you deal with any child custody modification issues that are currently affecting your life.