Moving With a Child: Washington's Relocation Statute
In 2000, the state of Washington changed the legal requirements for a parent to relocate with a child. Since that time, many parents have turned to the Law Office of Michael Ditchik for trusted counsel and representation in relocation matters.
Whether you wish to move away with your child or you want to object to your child's relocation, Attorney Ditchik knows the law and can work with you to prove your case.
If you have questions about whether the statute applies to you, contact Michael Ditchik in Kent, Washington, at 1-888-544-1259 or contact him online. Parental relocation is a tricky area of family law that can have serious implications, so it is important to speak with a knowledgeable lawyer if you are considering relocating with your child.
Moving Away With Your Child
If you plan to relocate with your child, you must give at least 30 days notice to the child's other parent (with certain exceptions). The Law Office of Michael Ditchik can help you give this legal notice and let you know how to proceed if the non-relocating parent objects to the move. Failure to give proper notice can result in court sanctions, including contempt. If you are found in contempt, you could face jail, fines or other penalties.
Objecting to Your Child's Relocation
If you are opposed to your child moving away, you must file a formal objection within 30 days of receiving notice from the relocating parent. A letter to the judge or relocating parent is not enough to meet the objection requirements.
As the objecting parent, Mike Ditchik can help you show that the relocation will negatively affect your child, outweighing any benefits of moving. The court will consider many factors in making a final decision:
- The stability of the child's relationships with both parents
- The existing parenting plan
- Whether disrupting contact with a parent would be detrimental to the child
- The reasons for seeking or opposing relocation
- The age, developmental stage and needs of the child
- The child's quality of life
- The financial impact of the relocation or its prevention
Contact an experienced lawyer about your family matters — Call 1-888-544-1259.
