Child custody and parenting plans
Washington does not use the word "custody" in most cases. Instead, courts enter a parenting plan — a written order setting the residential schedule, who makes major decisions, and how disputes get resolved.
What we do
We help parents create parenting plans that support the best interests of their children while protecting each parent's rights. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom advocacy, we assist with residential schedules, decision‑making authority, dispute‑resolution provisions, relocations, and modifications of existing orders.
What a parenting plan decides
Residential time
Where the children live
The weekly schedule, plus holidays, school breaks, and summer. It also names the parent the children are with a majority of the time.
Decision making
Who decides what
Education, non‑emergency health care, and religious upbringing — either jointly or by one parent, depending on the circumstances.
Disputes
What happens when you disagree
Most plans require mediation before returning to court, which keeps ordinary disagreements out of litigation.
Changing an existing plan
Parenting plans can be modified, but Washington sets a deliberately high bar for major changes to the residential schedule — generally a substantial change in circumstances. Minor adjustments and relocation requests follow their own rules, and relocation in particular has strict notice deadlines. If you have received a relocation notice, treat it as time‑sensitive.
What it costs
Your first consultation is free and runs about 30 minutes, including a case evaluation. Parenting cases vary widely — an agreed plan and a contested case with a guardian ad litem are very different pieces of work. Every case is unique, and the reliable way to get a number for yours is to ask at a free consultation, where you can get a quote specific to your situation.
Common questions
Is Washington a 50/50 state?
There is no automatic presumption of equal time. The court looks at each child's circumstances and each parent's history of caretaking.
Can my child choose?
A child's preference can be considered as they mature, but it is one factor among many. There is no age at which a child simply decides.
Do unmarried parents need a plan?
Yes. Parentage must usually be established first, and then the same parenting plan framework applies.
What if the other parent won't follow it?
A parenting plan is a court order. Enforcement is available, and repeated violations can affect the plan itself.
Talk it through first
A free 30‑minute consultation costs you nothing and is not a commitment. Bring your questions and your current orders, if you have them.
This page is general information about Washington law, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney‑client relationship. Outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case. Pinnacle Family Law, PLLC · 2479 Griffin Ave., Suite 201, Enumclaw, WA 98022.