Adapting to life after a divorce should bring you a sense of peace, but when your ex-spouse ignores your parenting agreement, your new routine can be easily disrupted. Trying to enforce a custody arrangement on your own can be difficult without the legal guidance of a skilled child custody attorney.
At Lutz & Associates, P.S., we have almost three decades of experience handling family law cases and understand the technical process involved in holding a former spouse accountable to your custody agreement. Our Kent child custody enforcement lawyers could help you get back to the parenting plan that works best for you and your children.
Helping You File a Motion for Contempt in Washington
Washington state takes the violation of a parenting plan seriously. Under the Revised Code of Washington § 26.09.160, when a party intentionally fails to comply with a provision of a child custody order, the court has the power to intervene. Whether the order includes performance of parental duties or the payment of child support, judges take these responsibilities seriously. However, proving intentional non-compliance can be challenging.
In King County, procedural rules are strict. For example, Local Family Law Rule 17 dictates exactly how contempt proceedings must begin. You must obtain an “order to show cause” document that commands the other parent to appear in court and explain why they should not be punished for their behavior. If you miss a single deadline or use the wrong form, your case could be delayed for weeks, leaving your child vulnerable to instability.
If the court finds the other parent in contempt, that parent must pay your reasonable attorney fees and court costs in accordance with R.C.W. § 26.09.160(2). Beyond the money, the court can grant you extra time to recover the days you lost with your child. In more severe or repeated cases, the court can even impose civil fines or, as a last resort, jail time. Having a Kent lawyer means having someone to push for these specific remedies for child custody enforcement while you focus on your daily responsibilities at work or in your home.
How Can Our Lawyers Help You?
We understand local procedure and could effectively enforce compliance with a custody agreement through a combination of legal remedies. When you work with a child custody enforcement attorney in Kent, you are not just gaining a voice in the courtroom but securing an architect for your case. Our experienced lawyers could ensure your declarations are drafted clearly and the process follows all the rules. We know exactly how to document your ex-spouse’s violations to meet all evidentiary standards.
Additionally, we are also deeply familiar with the Family Law Commissioners who hear motions on the Family Law Calendar under Local Family Law Rule 6. We know the preferences for how evidence such as text messages or call logs should be organized and presented. This local knowledge is invaluable. While you may be tempted to handle this yourself, remember that facilitators cannot give you legal strategy or represent you in front of a commissioner.
Call a Kent Child Custody Enforcement Attorney For Assistance Today
Your child custody agreement is a court order, not a request. Your co-parent cannot simply treat it like a draft. You deserve a schedule that works, and your children deserve the consistency the legal system intended. Seeking help from a Kent child custody enforcement lawyer allows you to step back from the conflict and let a skilled legal team restore your sense of balance. Contact Lutz & Associates today by calling (206) 672-9291 or reach us online for your personalized consultation.
