Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

jurisdiction and custody

My child's father told me I had until the end of the month to get out. I informed him that I had no where to go except maybe to my mothers or fathers, he said he didnt care. My moms was too crowded so I made the decision to move out of state where my father and other family members live in Washington where I was born. I have found a job that pays great and will give me and my son a better life. I moved because I felt it was in our best interest and had no where to go. I have already filed paper work in Washington, since there were none filed any where else, including a retstraining order and temporary custody order. Now the father is saying that I had no right, even though we were never married, to take him out of state and that I will be forced to come back and fight for custody there since it is my childs home state. He is an alcholic and has three DUI's, also I found a marijuana plant in his room the day that I left. Will jurisdiction be here or there, I've only been here a week. Our relationship and living situation was not emotionally healthy. PLEASE HELP.


Asked on 8/16/08, 2:48 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Christopher Steuart IT Forensics, Inc.

Re: jurisdiction and custody

Jurisdiction would be default be there for 6 months after you left, but WA court may take jurisdiction if there is an emergency. This will depend on circumstances and whether the other state's courts are asserting jurisdiction. You should consult an attorney for detailed advice.

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Answered on 8/17/08, 11:03 pm


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