Washington Interstate & International Custody Issues Lawyer
When parents separate or get a divorce, they must resolve child custody issues. These issues always have the potential to become complex but when parents do not live in the same state, or even the same country, the legal issues become even more complicated.
In these cases, there are many issues to resolve before deciding which parent will be awarded custody. These include which jurisdiction will have authority over the matter, which law applies, and how to apply the law given the facts of the case. When resolving these issues, it is critical to contact a Washington interstate and international custody issues lawyer.
What Issues Arise in Interstate Custody Cases?
It is not uncommon for one parent to move after a separation or divorce, even if that move is to another state. People sometimes move for employment purposes, to be closer to family, or simply to get a new start. However, this type of move does pose certain challenges. One of the first matters to decide when a parent moves out of state is which court has jurisdiction over the case.
The majority of the states in the country have adopted the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). This is a compilation of laws that outline how courts should assess custody matters, including issues regarding jurisdiction. According to the UCCJEA, the court to have jurisdiction should be the court in the same location the child has lived for the six months prior to the legal proceeding. If there is already a custody order, however, the court that issued the order will have jurisdiction to modify the order.
There are many different circumstances a court will consider when a court in a different jurisdiction has issued an order. The first is whether the child has formed relationships with individuals in one jurisdiction such as teachers, doctors, and family members. Another is whether a custody order was issued in one state, but sending the child back there exposes them to harm, such as neglect or abandonment.
What Issues Arise in International Custody Cases?
The same issues regarding jurisdiction and which court has authority in interstate custody cases are also of concern in international custody cases. When different countries are involved in custody disputes, it must first be determined which law will apply and which court has the authority to make decisions.
In international custody cases, there are also practical concerns. For example, one parent may not be able to travel to attend court hearings, and visitation can also become much more complex when parents live in different states.
Our Interstate and International Custody Issues Lawyer in Washington Provides Sound Legal Advice
Family law issues always have the potential to become complex but when parents live in different states or countries, there are many complicated issues to address. At Bunde & Roberts, P.C., our Washington interstate and international custody issues lawyer can help you resolve these terms and help you obtain the best possible outcome. Call us today at 412-391-4330 or chat with us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
