Spokane Fathers’ Rights Lawyer

Spokane Fathers’ Rights Attorney

As a father, entering a child custody battle can seem intimidating, to say the least. Don’t hesitate to speak with a qualified Spokane fathers’ rights lawyer immediately about your situation. Whether or not you and your child’s mother are on good terms, it’s always a good idea to have competent legal counsel on your side to ensure you obtain a fair custody agreement.

At The Legal Hill, PLLC, our family law professionals are prepared to work tirelessly on your behalf and protect your rights. We have extensive experience handling various family law issues, including divorce, child custody, and support.

Child Custody and Fathers’ Rights in Spokane

One study shows that 40 percent of states aim to grant parents equal time with their children. Nationwide, fathers are bound to receive approximately 35 percent of child custody time, with some states awarding dads less than 25 percent of custody time. This is the case in Washington, where fathers receive 23.8 percent custody time on average.

It’s commonly thought that mothers receive more rights in child custody matters. Whether this may be a misconception or somewhat unfairly true, the fact is that family law legislation itself contains no bias for one parent over the other. As a father, it’s important to understand that you have the same legal rights as your child’s mother. To secure a favorable outcome in your custody proceedings, it’s recommended that you consult with an experienced family lawyer.

Child custody cases in Spokane, WA, are processed at the Family Law Department of the Spokane County Superior Court. This legal venue is located at 1116 W Broadway Avenue in Spokane, WA 99260.

What Are My Rights as a Father in Washington?

Your legal rights as a father in Spokane, WA, are the same parental rights that the mother of your child is granted. Outside of extreme circumstances wherein a father is barred from certain privileges or waives his parental rights, these are your legal rights as a father in Washington:

• To pursue child custody
• To be a part of your child’s life on a regular basis and in a meaningful way
• Regular and reasonable visitation with your child, including seeing them and being a constant presence in their lives, regardless of whether you’re the primary custodial parent
• Have custody time free from any interference from the other parent
• If you are the primary caregiver, you have the right to petition the court for child support. Child support payments are regularly scheduled installments to help cover the cost of shelter, clothing, food, and other necessary resources.

Factors that Family Judges Consider for Custody

Family court judges take all relevant factors into consideration when determining whether a custody arrangement or parenting plan is in a child’s best interests. These are some of the details that the court is likely to weigh when considering a child custody case:

• The needs of the child, including medically
• The physical and emotional health of all parties involved
• Whether either parent has a history of any domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
• Relationships the child has, mainly with each parent but also with other relatives and people in their neighborhood or community
• The parenting ability of each party
• The living conditions of the child, such as the home life they’ve grown accustomed to, and how a new residence would impact them

FAQs

What Am I Entitled to as a Father in Spokane, WA?

In Spokane, Washington, your parental rights as a father are the same as the legal rights of your child’s mother. This includes the right to seek custody of your child, as well as being a steady presence in their life in a meaningful way. You also have the right to regular and reasonable visitation with your child, with custody time unimpeded by the child’s other parent. Additionally, if you’re your child’s primary caregiver, you have the right to petition for child support.

How Does a Parenting Plan in Washington Work?

In Washington, a parenting plan is a court order that outlines the terms of physical custody, who the child will primarily live with, and how visitation time will be divided between parents. Parenting plans also establish how legal custody is shared between parents, covering important decisions regarding their child’s upbringing, such as religious affiliations, schooling, medical needs, etc. Parents can work together to create a parenting plan, or they may leave it up to the court to suggest a plan.

How Do Judges Decide Custody in Washington State?

In Washington state, there are many aspects of a family law case that a judge will consider when determining what custody arrangement and parenting plan would be in a child’s best interests. Typically, a judge looks at each parent’s ability to provide for their child and the relationship the child has with each parent. The court must also consider a child’s environment, such as their residence and connection with their community, as well as their medical needs.

Do Unmarried Fathers Have Rights in Washington State?

In Washington, even fathers who aren’t married to the mother of their child have parental rights. Unmarried fathers retain the same rights as married fathers. However, unmarried fathers generally must establish paternity to exercise these rights, including pursuing custody of their children. This can be done either by filing a paternity action with the family court or through a voluntary acknowledgment of paternity.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me as a Father Seeking Custody?

Whether establishing a parenting plan or modifying an existing child custody agreement, working with a qualified and experienced family lawyer is always a good idea for fathers seeking a favorable outcome in their custody case. Your lawyer can help by explaining complex legal concepts and implications to you. They’re also there to protect your interests and advocate on your behalf based on your personal priorities and goals.

Spokane Fathers’ Rights Lawyer

The Legal Hill, PLLC, has successfully provided dedicated representation to countless families across Spokane and neighboring counties. Reach out to our team today to schedule a consultation with a seasoned family lawyer and receive reliable counsel.