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Hiring The Right Attorney For Your Child Custody Matter

As you work through the complicated and overwhelming legal process involved with divorce, the well-being of your children is likely to be your top propriety. You want your children to have the best, most stable life possible. And you don’t want to lose any time with them if it can possibly be avoided.

For these and other reasons, working with the right attorney is critical. When you contact Zundel Law Offices, PLLC, in Seattle, you will work with Terry A. Zundel, a skilled attorney who will advocate for you and your children throughout the process.

How Custody Works In Washington – A Basic Overview

Courts in Washington state must make child custody determinations based on the best interests of the child or children (as opposed to the wishes of either parent). In many cases, when both parents are fit caregivers, courts want to keep both parents involved in their child’s life. This could mean a roughly equal split in physical custody or an unequal balance of custody and visitation. In certain cases, one parent may be granted sole custody.

The best way to resolve custody disputes is through negotiation and cooperation. Parents are expected to submit a “parenting plan” to the court before a custody hearing can take place. If the parents can create one together and it is reasonable, the court will likely approve it. If no agreement is reached, however, the judge will need to make a best-interest determination.

Preparing A Well-Crafted Parenting Plan

Parents can submit one plan that they crafted together, or they can each submit their own. If more than one plan is submitted, the judge will choose the better option or call for an entirely new plan to be created.

One of the best things you can do to bolster your case is to craft a detailed parenting plan with the help of an experienced family law attorney. Whether the plan is made in negotiation with your co-parent or submitted on your own, a well-crafted plan gives you the most control over the terms of custody and the best chance of acceptance by the court.

Contact The Firm Today To Discuss Your Options

If child custody is likely to be a disputed matter in your divorce, it is essential to enlist the help of an experienced lawyer. Zundel Law Offices, PLLC, is ready to represent you from start to finish, and Ms. Zundel will vigorously advocate to protect the important relationship you have with your children.

Schedule a consultation today by calling 206-508-2029. You can also send an email.