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Our Olympia divorce lawyers are experienced and effective child relocation attorneys.

Many different scenarios involving potential child relocation can present themselves at any given time.  In some ways, this is simply the nature of life.  After a divorce is finalized, things often change for both of the parties, sometimes dramatically.

For many of our clients, the process of even considering relocation can be exhausting. 

Because each proposed relocation is very fact specific, we encourage you to call our offices and speak with on of our Olympia family law attorneys if you are either planning on relocating or if you are intending to object to a proposed relocation.

One of our Olympia divorce lawyers will be happy to review the specific facts and circumstances involved in your case and explain both your legal rights and how we can help.  What follows below is a very general overview of some of the most important aspects of Washington's child relocation statute.

What can you tell me about Washington's child relocation laws?

Relocation within the school district is generally approved.  The residential parent may also be permitted to relocate outside the children’s school district if they comply with the requirements of Washington’s relocation statutes.  See RCW 26.09.430-480. 

Generally, the relocation is permitted unless the other party can show that there is a risk of significant harm to the child due to the relocation.

This is a very high standard of proof and most courts will not find such harm under normal circumstances. The chances of prevailing on a relocation action can vary based on a the court determined factors which are:

1. Stability of child's relationship with each parent, siblings and significant others;

2. Prior agreement of the parties;

3. Would disrupting contact between the child and the primary residential parent be more detrimental to the child than disrupting contact between the child and the objecting person;

4. Whether either parent or another entitled to residential time with the child is subject to domestic, physical or sexual violence limitations under RCW 26.09.191;

5. The goof faith or lack thereof of each person seeking or opposing relocation;

6. The developmental stage and needs of the child and likely impact of relocation;

7. A comparison of the opportunities available to the child and the relocating party in the current and the proposed geographic locations;

8. Availability of alternative arrangements to continue access to the non-relocating parent;

9. The alternatives to relocation and whether it is feasible and desirable for the other parent to also relocate;

10. Financial impact and logistics of relocation or its prevention;

11. For a temporary order, the amount of time before a final decision can be made at trial.