09 Mar Parenting Law for Unmarried Couples in Washington
All families are unique, which means family rights look a little different from household to household. In Washington state, unmarried couples have most of the same parenting rights as married couples. However, there are a few details that couples must plan for when establishing custody, child support, and other aspects of parental responsibility. Read on to learn more about parenting law for unmarried couples in Washington.
Parenting Plans: Putting the Child First
Washington courts seek to put the child first in all parental disputes. As a result, Washington presents the child-friendly Parenting Plan, an all-encompassing agreement that settles parenting details such as where the child will live, who will pay child support, and so on. The Parenting Plan makes responsibilities and expectations clear for both parties, establishing a stable environment for the entire family moving forward.
Default Custody and Establishing Paternity
When two unmarried people have a child in Washington, custody refers to who the child resides with, however until a parenting plan is established, both parents listed on the birth certificate have equal “right” to have the child in their custody. However, fathers can access equal legal rights by establishing paternity. Once paternity is established, either on the birth certificate or by having an agreed This can be as simple as having your name on the birth certificate. Fathers can also sign a paternity affidavit with the mother, establishing a documented parenting plan is imperative. If needed, A paternity action—or court-ordered DNA test—will also establish paternity and legal parenting rights for unmarried fathers.
If someone is a nonbiological father and the biological father is not in the child’s life, it is possible he can gain parenting rights by legally adopting the child.
Building Your Plan
Building a Parenting Plan as an unmarried couple is similar to the process divorcing couples go through. If both parties agree on a plan, they can sign and submit it to a court for approval. In the face of disputes or disagreements, the parents can go to mediation or if necessary, court and have a judge decide on a plan.
If you find yourself navigating parenting law for unmarried couples in Washington, make sure you have an experienced team on your side. LaCoste Law will help you build a Parenting Plan that meets the needs of you and your child. Contact our team of expert common law lawyers in Washington state today to learn more about your options.