Divorce is hard, especially for couples with children. Unfortunately, some Washington residents will use their kids to hurt their former spouses. Parental alienation is one way they do this. If you believe you are a victim of parental alienation, you have options. The...
Child Custody & Visitation
Could nesting make sense for your family?
Your divorce has the potential to cause serious disruptions to your children’s lives. Yet, no matter you and your ex-spouse's reasons for your split, you will want to mitigate its impact on them by any possible means. If you are both remaining in the Seattle area...
Grandparents’ custody rights in Washington
When biological parents are capable of providing care for their children, grandparents typically do not have any inherent right for custody or visitation in the state of Washington. Landmark state and federal court decisions give parents substantial Constitutional...
Do children get a say in custody matters?
There is nothing easy about going through divorce or legal separation as a parent. The change in the family dynamic can be difficult for children to adjust to, at least for a while. The total lack of control over the situation can make some children feel lost and...
Good news for airmen dealing with child custody issues
Military service members, no matter which branch they belong to, sometimes get the short end of the stick when it comes to certain family law issues. Existing child custody arrangements, for example, are not always taken into account when parents are given new duty...
What exactly does “in the best interests of the child” mean?
Agreeing on child custody terms can be a divisive and emotional task for Washington couples going through a divorce. Some parents come to terms by working together passively, or with the assistance of a mediator or legal counsel. Others may end up having to go to...
Is your co-parent in contempt of court?
"In contempt of court" has a daunting ring to it. However, if your co-parent is refusing to abide by your child custody order when they're fully able to do so, that's what they are.You'd probably prefer to resolve the situation with your ex on your own. That's...
Should you include virtual visitation in a parenting plan?
If you are like other Federal Way parents going through a divorce, custody issues regarding your children are at the forefront of your mind. You probably want to take steps to reduce their stress and anxiety regarding the upcoming changes in their lives and want them...
Child custody: Jeremy Renner files complaint against ex
Washington parents often encounter challenges regarding child-related issues after divorce. Signing a child custody agreement can pertain to any number of topics, such as visitation, legal custody or even financial issues. The latter is the focus in a complaint filed...
As a grandparent, is it possible to get custody of the grandkids?
You have a very special relationship with your grandchildren. You love them, support them and you try to maintain an active role in their lives. In some cases, you may feel like it is your duty to take care of them all of the time, and that may mean trying to seek...