Child Custody Attorney in Tacoma

Protecting the Best Interests of Children for 30 Years

One of the most contentious subjects in a divorce proceeding or battle between unmarried parents is custody rights. At Groves Law Offices, our child custody lawyers in Tacoma, WA understand just how difficult a divorce can be under any circumstances. When you add children into the mix, it can make for an emotionally charged battle that is difficult to win without legal support. It is advisable to hire a custody attorney who is both experienced and compassionate, with the necessary skill set to handle your case.

How is Child Custody Determined in Washington?

The best case scenario in a divorce or child custody battle is that both parents make a decision in an amicable manner. However, this is not always possible for a wide range of reasons. The first step you should take if you are involved in a custody case is to seek legal advice about what your options are. If the decision is left up to the judge in family court, rather than a decision made between the two of you and approved by the court, they take into account a variety of factors.

A few examples of the factors which may be considered include:

• The distance between the parents' homes
• The preferences of the children
• The ability of each parent to care for the children
• The parents' ability to spend time with the children

What is the Legal Age a Child Can Choose Which Parent to Live With in Washington?

In the state of Washington, a child under the age of 18 may not decide which parent they choose to live with. In some cases, the child's opinion may be heard by the court, however these testimonies are usually verbalized through a third-party evaluator. If each parent cannot come up with a custody arrangement, then the court must decide for them using the child's best interests in mind.

What is an Unfit parent in Washington State?

During a child custody dispute, it is not uncommon for one of the parents to have suspicions about the other parent's ability to safely raise a child. If suspicions are valid, then an evaluation may take place to determine whether the parent is unfit. Here are some common traits to look for:

• Does the parent have a history of child abuse or neglect
• Does the parent have alcohol or substance abuse problems
• Has he or she suffered from a mental illness that inhibits their ability to carry out their role as parent

Is Washington a Mother or Father State?

The state of Washington does not rule in favor of someone based on their gender. In child custody cases, both the father and mother have an equal platform to argue their case to become the custodial parent. The only factors that will increase or decrease chances for custody are determined by the court and what is the best interests of the child.

Handling Complex Child Custody Issues

Every child custody battle is different and therefore must be approached with a unique outlook. Certain cases have complex issues involved, such as accusations of domestic violence or even past drug abuse. All of these factors can come into play when you file for divorce or custody. Our child custody lawyers in Tacoma, WA are here to provide you with the compassionate representation you deserve. Call today to schedule a free consultation.