Gregory Dean Esau

Child custody and visitation is the most difficult part of a divorce, especially when both parents don't agree what is best for the child, or there are safety issues such as domestic violence, mental illness / personality disorders, substance abuse, or neglect. This includes establishing a parenting plan (custody order) in the context of a divorce, paternity (non-married parents), or a modification where a substantial change of circumstances necessitate changes.

Note there is overlap - most divorce cases involve both child custody, child support and domestic violence issues. Issues in a typical divorce include dividing property and debts, providing for spousal maintenance (alimony) for one spouse, parenting plans and child support if there are children, protection orders in cases of domestic violence, modification of previously entered orders, appeals, enforcement of orders, and appeals.

Child support in Washington is established in every case involving dependent children and uses as formula that is based on the relative incomes of the parents and needs of the children. Unlike most court orders, child support orders are designed to be modified or adjusted over time due to changes in income, needs of children, change in custody to establish post-secondary support. Many child support cases involve enforcement for non-payment, including contempt.

Domestic violence often includes protection of a victim against an abuser or batterer with a protection order, no contact order, anti-harassment order, and dealing with law enforcement. Counseling is often recommended and if children are involved special care must be taken to provide for their safety. In other cases, domestic violence involves protecting one falsely accused of domestic violence to maintain legal rights, including as a parent.