Child custody arrangements are among the most important decisions parents can make. Like most parents, you want to ensure a safe and nurturing environment that will allow your child to learn and grow. Unfortunately, sometimes two parents do not agree on how to make that happen.
You may be in the process of forming an agreement with your former partner, seeking to obtain custody of a child, or concerned about your child’s current living arrangement. Our Bellevue child custody lawyers can help you understand your rights and find solutions.
Our team at Dellino Family Law has over 180 years of combined experience advocating for parents and working to resolve complicated family conflicts. Contact us today and find out how our Bellevue family lawyers can help with your child custody situation.
How a Child Custody Lawyer in Bellevue Can Help
An experienced and knowledgeable child custody lawyer can play an important role in helping you understand the complexities of family law and custody disputes. We can explain your rights, outline your options, and let you know what to expect as your case moves along.
Giving You a Voice
Our goal is to present a strong case in your favor by gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and representing you in legal proceedings. We are your advocates who make sure your interests are protected and you have a voice in your child’s future.
Negotiations and Conflict Resolution
Our Bellevue child custody attorneys are skilled negotiators and adept at conflict resolution approaches such as mediation.
This can mean a faster, easier, less stressful process in cases where the other parent is open to discussion and compromise.
Protecting Your Child
Sometimes, the debate is about more than just which parent prefers to have custody. If your former partner has shown a history of domestic violence or substance abuse, or you have other reasons to believe your child is not safe, we can take protective actions as allowed under the law.
Peace of Mind
We will deal with paperwork and communications, ensure you meet deadlines, and help you avoid common mistakes.
The assistance of a skilled lawyer can reduce your emotional and psychological burden, giving you some peace of mind during an otherwise stressful time.
The Washington State Family Court System
You will work with the Washington State Family Court System throughout your child custody case. For Bellevue, that specifically means the King County Superior Court, which deals with divorce, custody, and adoption.
It is important to remember that the court‘s primary goal is to act in the best interests of the child. While the court will consider each parent’s preferences, it emphasizes factors such as the child’s emotional well-being, stability, and the level of each parent’s involvement in the child’s life.
Whenever possible, parents are encouraged to reach an agreement outside of court. Resolving custody matters through negotiation or mediation gives both parents better control over the outcome and helps reduce conflict and emotional stress for everyone involved.
The Role of the Parenting Plan
A parenting plan is a legally binding document that outlines how two parents share responsibilities related to their child’s care and decision-making. By clearly defining each parent’s roles and duties, it helps reduce conflict and encourages cooperation.
In Washington State, a parenting plan is required in every case involving parenting time or decision-making authority for the child.
The plan details the child’s living arrangements, the decision-making process, and procedures for resolving disputes or modifying the plan if necessary.
Our child custody lawyers in Bellevue can help you create a parenting plan that reflects your wishes while prioritizing your child’s best interests. We can also help you formalize the plan through the Washington family court system to ensure it is legally enforceable.
Parental Rights Vs. Custody
Child custody and parental rights are closely related but often misunderstood concepts. Knowing the difference can help you avoid conflict and better understand your role in making decisions for your child.
Parental rights refer to your legal authority and responsibilities regarding your child’s education, healthcare, and overall well-being. These rights are not dependent on custody status and cannot be terminated without formal legal proceedings.
Custody, on the other hand, refers to where the child will live and is addressed through the parenting plan. Even if you disagree with certain terms, you are legally obligated to follow the parenting plan as ordered by the court.
Special Child Custody Circumstances
Sometimes, family dynamics and challenges can necessitate complex custody and parenting plan choices. Your attorney can help you through difficult and emotional circumstances such as:
Joint Custody
In Washington State, family courts may suggest or consent to shared custody if it benefits the child’s emotional well-being and both parents have shown they are willing to cooperate.
High-Conflict Child Custody Cases
The court may order counseling or parenting classes to resolve complicated situations. If necessary, the court can revoke one parent’s decision-making authority or appoint a guardian.
Child Custody and Special Needs Children
Parenting plans must meet the medical, educational, and emotional needs of children with physical or developmental disabilities. The court will consider which parent can best provide care and services for the benefit of the child.
Dealing With Parental Alienation
Washington courts can take action in cases where one parent intentionally creates a negative relationship between the child and the other parent. In some cases, this could be a valid reason for a change to the parenting plan.
Get Help From a Bellevue Child Custody Attorney
Like most parents, there is nothing more important to you than the welfare of your child. You want to see them thrive in a supportive environment where their needs are met and they have the best chance at happiness.
Our Bellevue child custody attorneys can help you understand the law and the workings of the Washington State Family Court System and assist you in creating a parenting plan that reflects your wishes for child custody.
Our team at Dellino Family Law knows this is more than a legal issue, and we are here to provide the support you need. Contact us today and tell us how we can help.