he team at Wong Fleming understands the range of factors influencing child custody decisions, and we know how emotional these topics can be. Let us listen to what matters to you and help you through this process.

Understanding Child Custody Terms in Washington

Understanding child custody in Washington begins with recognizing the significance of the Parenting Plan. This comprehensive legal document is central to child custody arrangements, which includes specifying where the child will reside, the allocated time for each parent to spend with the child, school attendance, and other pertinent details. The designation of the “primary residential parent” and “nonprimary residential parent” refers to whom the child will reside with. In some cases, each parent receives half the residential time with the child, which is known as “joint physical custody.” In many cases, decision-making authority is shared jointly between parents, fostering cooperation and shared responsibility.

Establishing a Parenting Plan

In Washington State, divorcing parents must navigate the challenging task of planning for their future while prioritizing the well-being of their children, who can be significantly impacted by the divorce. Washington courts consider specific factors related to the child’s home environment when determining custody arrangements that serve the child’s best interests. Seeking support from compassionate legal advocates can help parents safeguard their parental rights and their child’s welfare during this difficult time. Crafting a parenting plan entails addressing key objectives such as meeting the child’s physical and emotional needs, anticipating changes to minimize future modifications, and establishing mechanisms for resolving conflicts. The plan should also specify decision-making authority regarding the child’s education, religious upbringing, and healthcare, as well as detailing the child’s residential schedule to provide stability and support for their upbringing.

When Is It Time to Modify a Custody Agreement?

You may need to revise your parenting plan periodically. This may be the case if either parent moves, there’s a significant change in a parent’s work schedule, one parent wants to modify their time, or one parent is better able to meet the child’s needs as they grow. A modification is negotiated the same way as an initial custody order, which is why it’s important to have a family law attorney in Washington that you can rely on throughout your parenting journey.

How Visitation Works in Washington

In Washington, the term “parenting time” replaces “visitation”, denoting allocated periods for each parent to spend with the child. The residential schedule, also known as the custody schedule, specifies when the child will spend time with each parent, and is typically worked out based on the best interests of the child and the unique circumstances of the family. Common schedules include alternating weeks, rotating weekends, or a combination of weekdays and weekends with one parent. All that matters is that the schedule meets the needs of the child and both parents.

Negotiating an Agreement That Works for Your Family

If you’re intimidated or confused about negotiating the “right” amount of time with your child, don’t worry—you’re not alone. For many parents, the child custody discussion is the worst part of a divorce. We’re here to help. We know that no two families are the same, so what works for one family may not work for yours. Through discussions with you, the other party, and their legal team, we’ll get a feel for what they want and what you want. Taking into account the unique needs of your child, we will work towards an agreement that is reflects what you want and is in the best interests of your child

The Team at Wong Fleming is Here to Help You—Call Our Team Today

A clear child custody agreement makes life easier for everyone. Trust Wong Fleming to help you craft an agreement that suits you. Set up a time to talk to our team now. Just call us at 425-869-4040.