While sharing child custody more or less equally may be the ideal scenario after divorce, it’s often just not practical. Distance, work schedules and other reasons may require one parent to accept a 70-30 or even more lopsided schedule. Depending on what kind of...
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Child Custody
3 times when a parent may ask the courts for more parenting time
The division of parenting time in a custody order determines parental access. The family courts generally expect both parents to abide by terms included in a custody order and to cooperate with one another when minor, short-term adjustments are necessary....
Do unmarried fathers have custody rights in Washington?
Fathers responding to a divorce filing or choosing to end a marriage know that they can ask for custody. Finding ways to share parental rights and responsibilities is a standard component of most divorces involving minor children. Things become less clear in...
How can parents manage the holidays when sharing custody?
For parents, their children are often the focal point of the holidays. Their travel plans and meals may require special consideration for the children to be happy. They may budget for months to afford the gifts the children want and may work hard to create meaningful...
3 times when parents can request more parenting time
The terms included in a final custody order reflect either an agreement between parents or determinations by the courts. It is customary for both parents to receive a significant amount of time with the children even in high-conflict cases. Children need strong bonds...
What is co-parenting?
Parents who are splitting up generally have to come up with a plan for raising their children. There are many different parenting styles to consider. One of these is co-parenting, which requires parents to work as a team. There are several considerations about...
Prepare your parenting plan before relocating with children
After a divorce, it is natural to want a fresh start beyond simply moving into a new home. You might crave a new environment, a change of scenery or simply a chance to rebuild your life in a different part of the country. But when you have children, relocation can...
When homes become collateral damage in child custody battles
Going through a divorce or separation is an emotionally charged situation. When minor children are involved, the stakes get even higher as custody and parenting time arrangements are negotiated. In the heat of these legal battles, a family home can become caught in...
Coparenting differences can make things complicated
When parents get divorced and become co-parents, they often have to find new ways to communicate and work together. They still want to put their children first. But they’re doing this in new ways, as physical and legal custody have both been divided. Often, disputes...
Communication is key for summer trips after a divorce
Even after divorce, some parents will take summer trips together. They want to provide stability for their children, and they may be on amicable terms. Taking a trip together allows the children to experience the vacation with both parents, rather than just one. For...