Function

• The ultimate function of child custody laws in Washington state (as confirmed by appellate court decisions in the state) is to ensure that both parents have an equal opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with their child or children.
  
  

Joint Legal Custody

• The objective of the laws of the state of Washington is to permit joint legal custody of a child whenever possible. Through joint legal custody, both parents share equally in making major decisions for a child.
  
  

Best Interests of the Child

• Underlying all decisions pertaining to child custody in Washington is a determination of what is in the best interests of the child. Although not understating the importance of the rights of parents in child custody matters, in the end the rights and interests of the child are paramount.
  
  

Parenting Time

• Parenting time is a right intimately connected with child custody as a whole. The parent who lacks physical custody of a child legally is entitled to regular and reasonable parenting time or visitation under Washington child custody law. The non-custodial parent possesses the right to be more than a mere visitor in the life of her child.
  
  

Warning

• Custody cases are complex. Retaining an attorney may be beyond your budget. The Office of Civil Legal Aid for Washington (OCLA) assists people in locating attorneys who provide representation for no charge. Contact OCLA at 360-704-4135.