There are many important issues that must be resolved when a Washington couple decides to divorce. However, when they happen to be parents, child custody and visitation naturally takes top priority in proceedings. Children’s lives often undergo significant changes when their parents divorce.
A family court judge always has children’s best interests in mind when making decisions regarding physical or legal custody. If parents disagree on where their children should live or which parent should be their primary caretaker, the court will step in and make the decisions that the parents are having trouble making themselves. Once the court issues an order, both parents must fully adhere to its terms, whether they like the plan or not.
Being unhappy about a ruling and believing that a ruling is unjust are two separate issues. If a parent believes his or her rights were violated or that a judge has been unfair in a specific decision, it may be possible to appeal to a higher court. It’s important to consult legal counsel ahead of time for clarification of state laws and to make sure that you understand your rights and the family laws that are govern your case.
The Clement Law Center is well-versed and experienced in all aspects of child custody and visitation in Washington. Divorce changes lives but it doesn’t necessarily have to ruin them. If you’re getting divorced, and are anticipating a co-parent dispute, you may want to meet request a meeting before you go to court so you can discuss your best options for winning a custody case.