Best Interests of the Child in Washington

Courts make decisions all the time that affect children. These decisions are often related to things like child custody, child support, any future modifications to custody and support, and termination of parental rights. These decisions are made in light of the best interests of the child. 

At Anchorpoint Family Law Group, our family law lawyer in Washington provides guidance to our clients and helps them understand what the best interest of the child means generally, and how it could affect their unique case specifically. Making sure our clients are informed helps them make better decisions, too. So, contact us online or at (206) 589-8181 to schedule a Consultation.

Best Interests of the Child Standard in Washington

To determine what is in the best interests of the child, a set of factors has been established to guide the courts. These factors are also meant as a way to objectively arrive at these decisions so that they are fairer and more consistent. The standards used by most states are based on and developed from the model statute known as the Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act (UMDA). Specifically, however, Washington provides that the fundamental important of the parent-child relationship to the welfare of the child, and that the relationship between the child and each parent should be fostered unless inconsistent with the child's best interests.

Residential time and financial support are equally important components of parenting arrangements. 

The court shall determine custody in accordance with the best interest of the child. The best interests of a child are served by a parenting arrangement that: 

(1) maintains a child's emotional growth;

(2) maintains a child's health and stability; 

(3) maintains a child's physical care; 

(4) allows for an existing pattern of interaction between a parent and child is altered only to the extent necessitated by the changed relationship of the parents; or

(5) the pattern of interaction is altered to protect the child from physical, mental or emotional harm. 

Other Factors in Addition to the Best Interests of the Child

Courts can also consider other relevant factors. This could include:

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• Sexual conduct, which refers to the parent's sexual conduct and if it will adversely impact the child

• Domestic violence, where there is spousal abuse and/or child abuse

• Disability, where one parent may be disabled, the court may reflect on how that disability may impact the parent's ability to care for the child

Which Best Interests of the Child Standard Applies if Custody Involves Multiple States?

Child custody determinations are decided by state courts. Wherever the case is filed, typically that state's best interests of the child standard applies. In some cases, where a genuine question as to which state can enforce a custody order exists, uniform laws like the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act may control. That, too, is determined by the state. 

Keep in mind, not all states have adopted these uniform laws, but most use them as guidance.

Contact a Family Law Lawyer in Washington Today

The best interests of the child standard will greatly influence your child's life as well as yours. If you have questions, need advice, or want to file a complaint for divorce, child custody, or child support, contact Anchorpoint Family Law Group online or call us at (206) 589-8181 today. We will schedule a Consultation with our family law attorney and help you understand and make informed decisions about your child or children's best interests.