How Do I Get Custody of My Child in Washington?
In Washington, courts do not typically use the word “custody.” Instead, parenting plans determine where a child lives and how parents share responsibilities.
When parents separate or divorce in Seattle, King County, Bellevue, or elsewhere in Washington, the court usually establishes a parenting plan. This legal document outlines the child’s residential schedule and which parent has authority to make major decisions affecting the child’s life.
To learn more about parenting cases, visit our
Seattle Child Custody Attorney page.
Understanding Parenting Plans
A parenting plan replaces traditional custody terminology in Washington family law. The plan establishes where the child will live, how time is shared between parents, and how major decisions will be handled.
Rather than awarding one parent “custody,” the court focuses on creating a plan that supports the child’s stability and well-being.
Factors Courts Consider
When determining parenting arrangements, courts consider several factors related to the child’s best interests. These may include the child’s relationship with each parent, each parent’s ability to care for the child, and the stability of the child’s living environment.
Judges often look at how involved each parent has been in the child’s life and how well the parents are able to support the child’s needs.
Washington courts focus on the child’s best interests when establishing parenting plans rather than awarding custody based on a single factor.
Residential Schedules
The parenting plan typically includes a residential schedule showing when the child will live with each parent. Schedules can vary widely depending on the child’s age, school schedule, and the parents’ circumstances.
Some families use shared residential schedules, while others designate a primary residence with regular time for the other parent.
If you have questions about parenting plans or custody issues in Seattle or King County, our attorneys can help you understand how Washington law approaches these cases.
Building a Stable Parenting Arrangement
Parenting plans are designed to create consistency for children while allowing both parents to remain involved in their child’s life when appropriate. A well-structured plan can help reduce conflict and provide clear expectations for both parents.
Whitaker Kent Ordell PLLC represents parents throughout Seattle, Bellevue, and Western Washington in family law matters involving parenting plans and custody issues.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.