Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Can a father take is children out of home when Mother is in a manic stat, she is abusing Adderall. She has been escalating over the last 3 weeks and now is constantly picking fights,throwing things has slapped children,and is paranoid. Can Dad leave and take children 2 year old twins to a safe place.Or does he need to call police and have report filed


Asked on 4/17/17, 3:57 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Amir John Showrai The Pacific Law Firm, PLLC

If there are no court orders in place, then yes, on an emergency basis, the father can leave with the children, to protect himself and the children. I would suggest then consulting with an attorney to find out what can be done. More facts are needed. For example, are the mother and father married? What, if any court orders are now in place? What led to the Adderall prescription abuse?

Does the father have a history of substance abuse or domestic violence? If so, he needs to be careful how he proceeds, since that will all be brought up against him, if court action is needed and he needs a plan to address it.

An even bigger question that needs to be addressed is what can be done to get the mother help, if the father is merely looking to get the kids to safety followed by figuring out how to restore the mother's mental health. Again, this requires a consult with an attorney. The money you spend to at least consult on the matter will be well spent to know your full rights.

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Answered on 4/17/17, 10:15 pm


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