I chose the "Globe" icon for that menu item because the world of family law revolves
around the best interests of the child. Think very carefully about whether
you believe the course of legal action you intend to take is in the best interests
of the child. If it isn't, I don't want you as a client. But remember
that it is in the child's best interest (assuming mom and dad are both sane individuals)
to have substantial contact and custody time with BOTH parents. If the the
other side is attempting to wrongfully thwart your time with the child I will litigate
your case thoroughly for you.
Child-custody is the main focus of my practice. It has been the most meaningful,
trying, and satisfying aspect of law practice. I have handled literally hundreds
of contested custody court hearings and trials which have lasted weeks. My
retainer for contested custody is
$2,000.00-3,500.00.
If you are close to trial it is
$3,500.00-6,000.00.
All decisions regarding all aspects of child-custody are made at two stages.
First, in the Family Court before the Commissioners. And then at trial (and
on special occassions before trial) before the Judges.
The decisions which most substantially effect the final outcome of a custody case
are made at the Family Court stage, in front of the Commissioners. These are
hand-picked family law attorneys with substantial experience. They are paid
well and generally have a very firm grasp of the subject matter under their jurisdiction.
Child-custody is very discretionary and it is essential that you hire competent
counsel who is familiar with how the Commissioners and Judges in your county interpret
and apply the law. Most of family law occurs within local practice and is
not found within the cases. And in those instances where the appellate court
provides standards or interpretations, they usually hinge on evidence and credibiltiy
determinations which are made at the bottom level of the system anyway, not at the
appellate or supreme court stages.
So what can you do to help your case right now?
For starters, you should understand that in Family Court your first custody document
is going to be based on DECLARATIONS these are sworn written statements from yourself
and third parties about who has had most of the residential time with the child
and ALL OTHER FACTORS WHICH MIGHT INFLUENCE THE BEST INTERESTS OF THE CHILD.
Such other factors include work schedules, drug allegations, allegations of physical
violence, emotional abuse, controlling behaviors, school attendance, and virtually
anything else that will help the Court make the decisions that are best for the
child. Statements from doctors, therapists, neighbors, babysitters, friends,
relatives, and your minister are what you need. They also must be admissible
in Family Court. If you have high-speed internet you can view a short tutorial
on how to make a statement/letter admissible in the Family Courts of Washington
state by
clicking here.