In family law cases, the standard for appellate review is whether the trial court abused its discretion, ultimately whether a reasonable person could have come to the same conclusion given the evidence presented, or if the court’s decision had been made on untenable grounds or reasons. Despite this standard, it is important to note that Appellate Courts afford trial court’s tremendous deference in relation to its decisions, essentially presuming the trial court’s did not abuse the discretion afforded it at trial.
Mediation is a process where both parties agree to the employ of a neutral, impartial third party, who assists in helping them reach a voluntary agreement. Such agreements may include any and all aspects of a family law case, whether financial division, creation or modification of a parenting plan, child support, or any aspect of a separation or dissolution that requires an equitable and fair resolution.
A Third Party Custody Action is results when a non-parent or grandparent requests the court award him/her custody or placement of a child. A third party custody action generally occurs when the natural parent(s) is unfit or is a hazard to the child(ren). If you are intent on bringing such an action, solid, well prepared representation is a must.
Child Custody is a determination regarding which parent will be the custodian of the child(ren) and have placement the majority of time. Child custody is evaluated first by considering which parent is primarily responsible for the child(ren) and what arrangement will best serve the child(ren)’s interests. Parental conduct not only towards the child(ren), but between parents, is a factor in establishing placement.
A Child Relocation is essentially a modification to an existing parenting plan, resulting when the custodial parent intends to relocate outside of the state of Washington or a substantial distance within. In a child relocation, the non-custodial parent should maintain an equal amount of time with the child(ren) in the parenting plan and is approved if the relocation is best for the child(ren) and serves his/her best interests.
Child Support is the financial support of a child(ren), who is dependent upon either or both parents in a divorce or paternity. Child support includes health care and extraordinary health care expenses and may address educational, extracurricular, special needs, as well as transportation expenses.
Parenting Plans establish the residential/visitation schedule that the child(ren) will follow between parents in a divorce or paternity. Parenting plans identify schedules for child(ren) below and of school age, and include the spring, summer, and winter provisions. Overall, parenting plans identify the time child(ren) will spend with each parent and are intended to reduce/eliminate disputes between parents as well.
A divorce or, dissolution, is essentially a financial separation from your spouse. Maintenance, as well as other temporary provisions concerning community assets and debt, may be necessary to aid you in your separation from your spouse. And when children are involved, then child support and parenting plans are necessary provisions in order to complete your div
As you can see, a divorce can be a fairly complex procedure and one where knowledgeable legal representation will be a benefit to you.
Restraining Order/Protection Order is a necessary provision to protect you and/or your child(ren) from domestic violence. Any threat, perceived or otherwise, causing you to fear for your safety of the safety of your child(ren), may be the basis necessary for you to request the court implement a restraint to protect you or your child(ren) from any future violence.