Issues of custody and visitation can place a family in turmoil. Parents may be fighting for custody, grandparents may be attempting to exercise a right to see or care for the children, and many other factors may be coming into play when custody and visitation are being disputed. We can assist in these situations in many ways. Since 1997, the family law attorneys at Lutz & Associates, P.S. have been fearlessly representing clients who have custody and visitation needs. No matter what the situation is, we can help. Our exceptional staff have many years of experience handling these types of cases. We are very sensitive to your needs and to the nature of the case.
When children are involved, the stakes are raised. The best interests of the child or children should be at the heart of the case. We work to ensure that both sides in the case realize this fact. Along with custody, we work to make sure that visitation rights are preserved. In some cases, a parenting plan may be established to put provisions for the care of the children into writing. Our Tacoma child custody lawyers can help you compose a parenting plan or represent you in court if a plan cannot be agreed upon.
Which Factors Help Determine Child Custody In Washington?
Family law courts consider several factors when issuing a parenting plan (also known as a custody and visitation order). Some of the most important facts they consider include:
- The location of each parent’s home
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The child’s involvement in school, athletics, church, and other community activities
- The willingness of each parent to foster the child’s relationship with the other parent
- A history of substance abuse, domestic violence, or serious mental illness
Every family’s situation is unique, and that is why you need a compassionate child custody attorney in Tacoma who can get to know your situation. The judge will issue the order they feel preserves stability for the child and upholds the child’s best interests.
Is Washington a 50/50 Custody State?
The law is gender-neutral when it comes to custody; the court considers many factors when determining custody, and it does not necessarily prioritize 50/50 parenting plans. Usually, judges issue the decision that they believe creates the most stability for the child. This does not always mean that the child will spend half the time with one parent and half the time with the other. Sometimes, the best interests of the child involve spending more time with the primary parent—the parent who performs the bulk of the parenting tasks. Our Tacoma attorneys can help you get a better idea of what your child custody split might look like before any decision is made.
What Are Some Tips For Structuring a Solid Parenting Plan?
If you and your co-parent want to create a parenting plan, here are a few wise tips for approaching it:
- Put the child’s needs above your wants.
- Communicate effectively with the other parent.
- Consider the transportation requirements.
- Consider the financial implications.
- Stand up for yourself, but consider compromises.
- Discuss the arrangement with your child.
It can also be helpful to have a Tacoma lawyer on your side who can advocate for you and help you understand your rights when it comes to child custody.
Contact Our Capable Child Custody Attorneys in Tacoma For Guidance
Let our Tacoma child custody lawyers use our family law experience to efficiently and effectively pursue your custody and visitation case. We can assess your specific case and needs. From this assessment, we can provide you with a realistic picture of the possible outcomes of your case. Contact Lutz & Associates, P.S. by calling (253) 471-7774 or filling out our online contact form. We look forward to speaking with you about your individual case.
