Child Custody Attorney Serving Vancouver, Washington

You want what’s best for your child, and so do we. Our child custody attorney at Keystone Family Law has a deep understanding of Washington’s family law and can provide you with the legal support and guidance you need when creating a parenting plan. We work hard to negotiate fair and reasonable resolutions and will advocate strongly for your parenting rights.  

We proudly serve all the cities in Clark County. Contact us today for help with establishing or modifying your parenting plan.

How to Establish a Parenting Plan

in Washington 

What is known as a “child custody order” in most other states is called a parenting plan in Washington. A parenting plan is a court order that specifies which parent has the right to (a) spend time (and how much time) with the child and (b) make decisions regarding the child’s life. Generally, parenting plans outline: 

• where the child will live; 

• how much time the child will spend with each parent; 

• who has the authority to make major decisions about the child’s life; 

• how parents should resolve their disagreements if they ever arise.

Under Washington law, either parent can file a parenting plan with a Petition or Response at the beginning of the case; with a motion for temporary orders in the middle of the process; or, with a final order in the end.  

A parenting plan can be submitted in the form of a proposal, order, or agreement. Consult with an experienced and compassionate child custody attorney to determine which form is most appropriate for your specific case.  

What Is Residential Time?  

Residential time in parenting plans refers to the time the child spends with each parent. It encompasses all aspects of the child’s life, including where the child lives, who they live with, and who makes decisions about their welfare.  

In Washington, the court encourages a joint residential schedule (joint physical custody) whenever possible, meaning both parents share in the daily responsibilities of raising the child; however, the child does not usually spend an equal amount of time with each parent.

In Clark County, our Court traditionally follows "Local Rule" when it comes to residential time. The Court will identify the primary custodial parent and a non-primary custodial parent. The non-primary custodial parent will then receive 6-8 overnights per month, often broken up as parenting time every other weekend from Friday after school to Monday before school. That parent will also have parenting time for 2-4 hours for a dinner visit on the off week, often on Wednesdays. Whether the Court will apply "Local Rule" in your case is fact specific. It is best to speak with an attorney to determine if you should request a different schedule for the non-primary custodial parent's residential time.

Factors Considered When Establishing Child Custody  

When determining a parenting plan, courts in Washington consider a variety of factors to ensure the best interests of the child are met. These factors include: 

• the child’s relationship with both parents 

• the child’s relationship with other individuals in each parent’s respective household 

• the ability of each parent to take care of their child 

• each parent’s health (physical, mental, and emotional) 

• which parent was the primary caretaker prior to the separation 

• the child’s involvement in their community 

When evaluating each parent’s ability to take care of the child, Washington courts consider the parents’ lifestyle, residential location, employment schedule, home stability, and history of abuse or domestic violence, if any.  

Modifying Parenting Plans  

Modifying a parenting plan in Washington can be a complicated process. To modify the plan, parents must petition the court (“Petition for Modification of Adjustment of Child Custody Decree/Parenting Plan”) and show a significant change in circumstances that warrants the modification.  

Some common reasons for modification include relocation, changes in work schedules, or changes in the child’s needs. You need to have proper legal representation during this process to maximize your chances for a favorable resolution.  

How a Child Custody

Attorney Can Help 

A lawyer can be a valuable resource when it comes to creating or modifying a parenting plan. Here is how our family law attorney can help you:  

• Sharing our knowledge of the law: Attorneys have a deep understanding of Washington’s child custody laws and can provide guidance on issues related to parenting plans. 

• Helping establish parenting agreements: An attorney can help you negotiate and establish agreements that reflect your child’s best interests. 

• Representing you in court: If litigation is necessary, an attorney can represent you in court and advocate for your parenting rights on your behalf. 

• Offering guidance on legal and practical considerations: Attorneys can help you better understand the legal and practical considerations surrounding a parenting plan. 

• Drafting legal documents: Attorneys can draft or review legal documents to ensure they are legally binding and protect your rights. 

• Supporting you throughout the process: A child custody lawyer can provide emotional support and guidance as you navigate the often-difficult process of creating or modifying a parenting plan. 

Tips for Creating a

Successful Parenting Plan 

Creating a successful parenting plan requires open communication and cooperation between parents. Here are some tips to help you create a successful parenting plan: 

• Be flexible and willing to compromise (to a reasonable extent). 

• Put your child’s needs first. 

• Keep your child’s routine as consistent as possible.

• Plan for the future. A Parenting Plan should last until the child is 18.

• Be respectful and civil with your ex-spouse.

• Express what events and holidays are really important to you and be willing to accommodate those that are important to the other party. 

• Keep your child out of any conflicts between parents. 

• Follow the parenting plan agreed upon by both parties. 

• Seek the assistance of a child custody attorney to get help in drafting a parenting plan. 

Our child custody attorney in Vancouver, Washington, helps parents protect their rights and reach an agreement on key issues when negotiating a parenting plan. With us in your corner, you can trust that we’ll help you navigate the court system with confidence and clarity.