Child Custody in Tacoma, Washington – A Practical Resource for Pierce County Parents

If you're navigating a child custody matter in Tacoma, you're probably feeling overwhelmed—emotionally and financially. You probably have more than a few questions about Washington family law. Whether you’re preparing for a divorce, trying to modify an existing parenting plan, or asserting your rights in a custody dispute, understanding how Washington law functions in Pierce County can make the process clearer and more manageable.

The family courts in Tacoma prioritize the safety, well-being, and long-term stability of children, and they encourage parents to work together whenever possible to reach cooperative solutions. This guide answers common questions we hear from Tacoma-area families. It’s designed to give you practical insight into your legal options and help you take the next steps with confidence.

How do courts in Pierce County determine who receives custody?
In Tacoma, custody cases are decided by the Pierce County Superior Court using Washington’s “best interests of the child” legal standard. Judges consider factors like the emotional bond between the child and each parent, the consistency of the home environment, the child’s connection to school and community, and any history of substance abuse or domestic violence. The court also evaluates how likely each parent is to encourage a strong, healthy relationship between the child and the other parent.

What kind of parenting plan do I need in a custody case?
Any custody matter involving a child under 18 requires a formal parenting plan. This court-approved document outlines who the child will live with, how major decisions will be made (like those about healthcare or school), and how to resolve disputes between parents. If you and the other parent agree, you can submit a joint parenting plan. If not, the court will evaluate each proposal and make a final decision that supports the child’s development and emotional security.

How can I change my parenting plan?
To request a change to an existing parenting plan in Pierce County, you’ll need to show that there’s been a substantial change in circumstances since the original order was entered. This might include one parent relocating, the child’s evolving needs, or consistent violations of the plan. The court must agree that your proposed changes are in the child’s best interest. Significant changes, such as altering primary custody, often require a court hearing and persuasive evidence.

What are my rights as a parent during a custody case in Tacoma?
Every parent in Washington has the legal right to be involved in their child’s upbringing. The court does not favor mothers over fathers or vice versa. What matters most is your involvement, your ability to provide a safe and stable environment, and your willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent. You also have the right to submit evidence, propose a parenting plan, and have your case heard before a judge.

Where can I find a child custody lawyer in Tacoma?
If you're facing a custody dispute in Tacoma, working with a local attorney who understands the family law landscape in Pierce County can make a significant difference. A knowledgeable custody lawyer can walk you through your legal responsibilities, help you avoid missteps, and work to secure an arrangement that puts your child’s needs first.

In Washington State, parenting plans are governed by RCW 26.09.187. This statute defines how residential time and decision-making authority are allocated during a custody case. Whether you’re divorcing, separating, or resolving parenting issues outside of marriage, the parenting plan is a required legal tool for determining your child’s care structure.

Judges encourage parents to work together when creating a parenting plan. Collaborative agreements reduce courtroom conflict and help children adjust more easily. The parenting plan should address where the child will live, how decisions will be made, and how each parent will stay involved in the child’s life.

The court considers several factors when determining who will make decisions about the child’s healthcare, education, and other major issues. According to RCW 26.09.187(2)(c):

“Except as provided in (a) and (b) of this subsection, the court shall consider the following criteria in allocating decision-making authority:
(i) The existence of a limitation under RCW 26.09.191;
(ii) The history of participation of each parent in decision making in each of the areas in RCW 26.09.184(5)(a);
(iii) Whether the parents have a demonstrated ability and desire to cooperate with one another…
(iv) The parents' geographic proximity to one another, to the extent that it affects their ability to make timely mutual decisions.”

For decisions about where the child will live, the court refers to RCW 26.09.187(3)(a):

“The court shall make residential provisions for each child which encourage each parent to maintain a loving, stable, and nurturing relationship with the child…”

A 50/50 arrangement is not assumed by default. The court evaluates each family’s specific circumstances, like school schedules, transportation, and past caregiving roles, to create a plan that supports the child’s growth and stability.

For free legal information and self-help tools, visit WashingtonLawHelp.org or the Washington Courts website. These resources will help you better understand the law and how it applies to your specific circumstances. If you have more questions, keep reading below.

If you’re facing a child custody matter in Tacoma, you’re probably dealing with more questions than answers, and plenty of stress. Whether you’re navigating a divorce, adjusting an existing parenting plan, or trying to secure more time with your child, it helps to understand how custody law works in Pierce County. The Superior Court in Tacoma follows Washington State law to protect the well-being of children while encouraging cooperative, responsible parenting from both sides.

Below are answers to the most common custody questions we hear from families in Tacoma. Use this guide as a starting point to better understand your legal rights, obligations, and options.

What factors does the court consider when determining the best interests of a child in a custody case?
In Pierce County, child custody decisions are based on what the court believes is in the best interests of the child. Judges consider a range of factors, including the strength of the child’s emotional bond with each parent, the safety and stability of each household, the child’s adjustment to school and community, and any concerns involving domestic violence, neglect, or substance use. The court also looks at each parent’s willingness to support the child’s ongoing relationship with the other parent.

Statute: RCW 26.09.187(3)(a)
“The court shall make residential provisions for each child which encourage each parent to maintain a loving, stable, and nurturing relationship with the child…”

Public Resource: WashingtonLawHelp – Parenting Plans

How are parenting plans affected if a parent in Tacoma wants to relocate?
If the parent with primary residential time intends to move, Washington law requires them to notify the other parent at least 60 days before the planned relocation. This rule applies whether the move is within Pierce County or farther away. The other parent has the right to object, which may lead to a court hearing. The court will consider why the move is happening, how it might impact the child’s relationship with each parent, and whether the parenting schedule can be adjusted to maintain regular contact.

Statute: RCW 26.09.430–480
“A person with whom the child resides a majority of the time shall notify every other person entitled to residential time with the child under a court order…”

Public Resource: Washington Courts – Relocation of a Child

What legal resources are available for Tacoma parents involved in custody disputes?
Tacoma families can access several helpful resources through the Pierce County Superior Court. The court’s website provides access to forms, filing instructions, and local procedures. While court staff cannot give legal advice, they can help you understand the basic steps of the process. In addition, WashingtonLawHelp.org offers self-help guides, video tutorials, and legal checklists for creating or modifying parenting plans. Mediation is also frequently recommended and may be required before a case can proceed to trial.

Can a child’s preference influence custody decisions, and is there a required age?
Yes, the court may consider a child’s preference if the child is mature enough to offer a clear and independent opinion. Washington law does not set a specific age at which a child’s wishes must be followed. However, the older and more articulate the child, the more likely a judge will consider their input. That said, the child’s wishes are just one of many factors, and the court’s decision must still support the child’s overall well-being.

Statute: RCW 26.09.187(3)(a)
“The court may take into account the wishes of a child who is sufficiently mature to express reasoned and independent preferences…”

Public Resource: WashingtonLawHelp – Parenting Plan FAQs

What’s the difference between legal and physical custody in Washington, and how are they determined?
Legal custody means having the authority to make major decisions for your child, such as those involving school, medical care, and religious upbringing. Physical custody refers to where the child lives and how parenting time is divided between parents. These details are all included in the parenting plan, which must be approved by the court. In Washington, the court can assign joint or sole legal custody and will create a residential schedule that prioritizes stability and emotional support for the child.

Statute: RCW 26.09.184(5)
“The plan shall allocate decision-making authority to one or both parties regarding the children's education, health care, and religious upbringing…”

If you’re working through a child custody issue in Tacoma, it’s important to know your rights and take steps to protect your family’s future. Whether you’re just starting the process or considering a modification to your existing plan, the right legal support can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your child’s needs remain the top priority.

At The Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we’re proud to serve families in Tacoma and across Pierce County. With more than 50 years of combined experience, our legal team is here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and a strong strategy. Contact us today for a free consultation and start building a plan that works for your family.

One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of going through a divorce is dealing with issues involving child custody. You will be forced to grapple with questions such as who the children will live with, and who will provide for their well-being. There are a number of other factors that will affect your children so it’s vital that you speak with one of our Tacoma child custody attorneys about the details of your particular circumstances.

One thing is certain; you and your spouse must reach an agreement on how your children will be cared for. Reaching a mutual understanding can often be extremely frustrating and difficult, and this is why it’s so important that you let our Tacoma child custody lawyers help you navigate this complicated and emotionally charged process.

Any Tacoma custody attorney from our office will aggressively fight to motivate you and your spouse to reach an amicable agreement based on the best interests of your children. Getting through this difficult time is obviously important to everyone involved, and our custody attorneys in Tacoma are poised to act as compassionate advocates on your behalf.

Washington State law requires that divorced couples have a parenting plan that outlines the agreement made by parents or a judge. This document will determine who your children will live with, who will make major decisions on their behalf, and how spousal disagreements will be handled.

Our Tacoma child custody attorneys will help you and your spouse craft this agreement so as to ensure that the best interests of your children are represented. This process will require that you talk face-to-face with your ex-spouse to discuss these sensitive matters, but our Tacoma child custody lawyers will be with you every step of the way.

Our Tacoma child custody attorneys understand that agreeing to the terms of a parenting plan will most likely be difficult. Still, our experience handling these sensitive cases will be put into effect for you in a manner that is aggressive yet compassionate. Our Tacoma child custody lawyers will fight to protect you and your children by helping to create a parenting plan based on your needs and the goals you outline, and then submitting it to the court for approval.

You can contact one of our legal professionals for a free consultation about the particulars of your divorce case. If you are facing issues involving child custody then you already understand the stakes. Don’t take any chances; ensure that your children’s future is secure by getting started on the right path today. We will provide you will an objective view of the situation, and the experience and dedication required to protect your legal rights.