Under Washington state law, matters involving child custody fall under the semantic umbrella of "parenting plans." A successful parenting plan will determine where and with whom your child lives, as well as which school they attend, whether or not they receive religious instruction and when the non-custodial parent can visit her or his child.
A Washington judge will determine whether your parenting plan provides a loving and stable environment for your child. The relationship you shared with your child prior to the divorce will be analyzed, as will that of your soon-to-be former partner, with preference given to whomever is found to have played a larger role in your child's upbringing — i.e. whomever was primarily responsible for addressing your child's needs, whatever they may be.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it's not uncommon for divorcing parties to disagree on the terms of a parenting plan. Should this disagreement prove especially difficult to resolve, the parties may be forced to take their case before a Washington judge. Since a judge's decision is legally binding, it's highly recommended that you consult an aggressive, experienced family lawyer as soon as possible.
Stanley A. Kempner Jr. Attorney at Law assists Spokane County families creating workable parenting plans. To get started, call (509) 484-1104 now.