Washington Child Custody Lawyers

No. Washington’s Parenting Act is explicitly gender-neutral. Judges base decisions solely on the child’s best interests, not on a parent’s gender or income.

Across Washington—including courts in Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Everett, and Vancouver—decisions reflect each family’s unique circumstances. Fathers and mothers are equally considered, and when one parent has been the consistent caregiver, courts often continue that arrangement to maintain the child’s stability. Parenting capacity, consistency, and cooperation—not gender—drive outcomes.

Yes. Equal residential schedules are allowed under RCW 26.09.187 when they serve the child’s best interests. Judges consider:

• Proximity between homes and schools
• Parents’ communication and cooperation skills
• The child’s age, temperament, and adaptability

Common patterns include week-on/week-off or 2-2-3 rotations. Equal plans work best when parents live near each other and maintain positive communication.

It depends on the level of conflict and cooperation. Agreed plans may finalize in 2–4 months; contested cases with evaluations or relocation issues may take a year or more.

Temporary orders provide structure in the meantime. Early mediation, transparent communication, and completing required classes can help shorten the process.

Tip: Completing seminars and submitting proposed plans early can significantly reduce delay.

A child’s preference may be considered under RCW 26.09.187(3)(a)(v) but is never the sole deciding factor. Judges look at the child’s maturity, reasoning, and overall circumstances.

Example: A 15-year-old requesting to stay with one parent for school continuity may influence the outcome more than a younger child whose preference is less developed.

Yes. Under RCW 26.09.260, a plan may be modified if there has been a substantial change in circumstances and the modification benefits the child.

Common reasons include relocation, changes in work schedules, or improved stability for one parent. Minor adjustments—such as exchange times or vacation weeks—can often be made by mutual agreement through a simple order.

Because stability is paramount, judges require clear evidence that the change helps the child more than it disrupts their routine.

Example: If a parent’s work shift changes from days to nights, the court may adjust weekday overnights while keeping the same primary home for school consistency.

Child safety is always the court’s top priority. RCW 26.09.191 requires restrictions or supervised visits when there is credible evidence of domestic violence, child abuse, or substance misuse.

Judges can order supervised visits, require counseling, or impose protective provisions under RCW 26.50. These measures are designed to keep children safe while supporting rehabilitation and eventual healthy parenting when possible.

Example: If a parent has prior assault convictions or restraining orders, the court may mandate professionally supervised visits until rehabilitation is demonstrated.

For more answers to child custody questions and other family law topics, visit our Family Law FAQ Hub. You’ll find over a dozen additional child custody FAQs, along with helpful information about divorce, parenting plans, child support, relocation, and modifications in Washington.