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Spokane Child Custody Attorney
Child custody cases are emotionally and legally complex. Hodgson Law Office's experienced Spokane child custody lawyers understand what judges prioritize and skillfully argue to protect your rights and your child's best interests.
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Our Experienced and Passionate Child Custody Lawyers in Spokane
Hodgson Law Office specializes in family law across Spokane and surrounding counties. Our experienced attorneys handle child custody cases, addressing:
- - Where your child lives
- - Who makes decisions in your child's life
- - How much time your child spends with each parent
We protect your child's relationships with both parents while prioritizing their safety and wellbeing in all custody arrangements.
Estimate Your Child Support Easily
Understanding child support obligations is crucial during custody battles. Use our Washington Child Support Calculator to get a quick estimate and ensure you’re prepared as you navigate this process.
Calculate NowCommon Child Custody Issues We Can Help You With
Child custody issues do not just involve awarding physical custody in a divorce. A child custody case can pertain to many other situations, including:
- - Parenting plans and visitation
- - Enforcement of prior custody orders
- - Modifying an existing order
- - Relocations and move-away orders
- - Emergency or temporary custody
- - Custody in paternity cases
- - Domestic violence and child abuse cases
- - Grandparent custody and visitation
- - Termination of parental rights
In these cases, a judge must assess the child's living situation and what will serve the best interests of the child. Whether you want a judge to resolve a dispute between you and your ex-spouse or you need to rescue your grandchildren from a dangerous home environment, a family law attorney can help you.
Contact an Experienced Spokane Child Custody Attorney Today!
Child custody disputes and family law cases require an attorney with experience fighting for families. Contact Hodgson Law Office to discuss how our Spokane family lawyers can help with your custody dispute or other family law matters.
Free ConsultationTypes of Child Custody and Arrangements
Custody disputes in Washington state cover several aspects of your child's life, including where they spend their time and who decides the direction of their life. When a judge addresses child custody matters, the court order can include the following types of arrangements:
Legal Custody
Physical Custody
Sole Custody
Joint Custody
Hybrid Custody
Legal custody determines who has the authority to make major life decisions for the child, including:
- Education
- Sports and extracurricular activities
- Filing lawsuits
- Health care
- Religion
In short, legal custody covers all the important decisions related to the child, from signing permission slips to giving instructions to doctors.
Custody Laws in Spokane, WA
Washington state laws provide a framework for child custody decisions in Spokane. Here's a concise overview of key laws:
- - Parenting Act (RCW 26.09): Establishes the process for creating parenting plans and outlines factors considered in custody decisions.
- - Best Interests of the Child Standard (RCW 26.09.002): Mandates that custody decisions prioritize the child's best interests.
- - Parenting Plan Requirements (RCW 26.09.181): Outlines the necessary components of a parenting plan, including decision-making authority and residential schedules.
- - Modification of Parenting Plans (RCW 26.09.260): Sets forth the criteria for modifying existing custody arrangements.
- - Relocation of Children (RCW 26.09.405-560): Governs the process for relocating with a child when a parenting plan is in place.
Judges in Spokane have broad discretion to interpret these laws and make decisions based on the unique circumstances of each case. They may order parents to develop a parenting plan, hold hearings to review proposed plans, and even interview children privately to determine the best custody arrangement.
Call Family Lawyers for Child Custody Battle in Spokane
Securing child custody can give you and your child a relationship together. Contact us for a free consultation to learn about your rights in a custody dispute.
Free ConsultationTestimonials
Testimonials
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I hired Mark Hodgson for a divorce in Spokane. He was open, friendly, and gave me great advice and counsel. Mark was honest with me about my case and worked hard to resolve all of my issues quickly. He responded to my phone calls and questions every time. He was WONDERFUL in my hearing and got me alimony, child support, and the parenting plan that my children needed. I had two other lawyers before Mark and he is far superior to my previous counsel. He fought hard for me and he knew the law. I would and will recommend him to everyone that i know.
Susan
These situations are never easy. Deciding to get a lawyer then choosing one was a very hard decision. I spoke to a few people that have been thru divorce and Mark’s name came up more than once. I went and met with him, his business partners and Casey his assistant. They were all friendly, professional and most importantly for me nonjudgmental. He is very educated on divorce with children and keeps in mind what is best for the kids! He answered my questions and didn’t make me feel belittled as other lawyers did. Thank you Mark Hodgson and team you are all very appreciated!
Tricia
Called Mark Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. He got us in that Friday the day after Thanksgiving. We decided to hire him and he made the time to start the process of paperwork that Sunday. It was great he did this so my wife and I didn’t have to miss work and our case was a time sensitive issue. The few times I’ve had to emailed him he seem to get right back to us with answers.
John
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our team
Our Team
Our child custody attorneys and legal assistants have over 20 years of experience practicing family law. Working together, they have successfully resolved many child custody cases. Our team knows the laws governing the custody of minor children and provides comprehensive representation to protect your custody rights.
Attorney
Mark D. Hodgson
I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
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Our Spokane Child Custody Lawyers Will Fight for You
An experienced attorney often determines the outcome of your case. An attorney who understands the law and how to advocate on behalf of a client can resolve your case quickly and amicably or battle the other party in court. Contact us to find out how we can help you.
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FAQ
Do you need a lawyer for your child custody case in Spokane?
While you can represent yourself, it's not advisable. Here's why:
- The other parent likely has an attorney, putting you at a disadvantage.
- Legal assistance helps you prepare and present evidence effectively.
- An attorney can help you respond to the judge's questions and adapt arguments.
- Experienced lawyers understand court procedures and legal nuances.
Having a skilled attorney significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome in your child custody case.
Do unmarried parents have parental rights?
Yes, a judge cannot discriminate against a parent because of their marital status (RCW 26.16.105). This means a parent can still get custody if the parents were unmarried. It also means a parent can seek custody if they are married to someone besides the child's other parent.
What are the main factors determining child custody?
In Spokane, WA, courts use the "best interests of the child" standard when determining custody. Key factors include:
- The child's relationship with each parent
- Each parent's ability to meet the child's needs
- The child's emotional needs and developmental level
- Maintaining the child's important relationships (siblings, relatives)
- The child's stability (school, community)
- Each parent's work schedule
- The child's wishes (if mature enough)
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
Judges balance these factors to reach a fair outcome that prioritizes the child's well-being.
How can parents create a parenting plan?
To create a parenting plan in Spokane, WA:
- Consult with a Spokane family law attorney.
- Address key issues, including decision-making responsibilities, residential schedules (including holidays and school breaks), and dispute resolution methods.
- Consider your child's unique needs and your family's situation.
- Be prepared to negotiate with the other parent.
- Submit the plan to the court for approval.
Remember, the court must approve your plan, ensuring it serves the child's best interests.
Does Washington family law favor mothers or fathers?
Washington state law mandates that both parents, regardless of gender, are treated equally (RCW 26.16.125) in custody disputes. Courts can take into account which parent can provide a more stable and consistent environment, and many judges assume that person to be the mother. As a result, fathers often have an uphill battle.