Legal Question in Family Law in Washington
Change o f venue
My ex-wife and I have recently both moved to Snohomish County and are in the process of modifying child custody/support. Since the original decree was granted in King County, I was told to do a change of venue. We have done all the paperwork on the case, but can't proceed until this issue is resolved. I was told that this is a common process, but that no standard forms have been developed for this. What I need is an outline, example, or anything that I could use to get this done and complete the process. Thanks for your help on this matter.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Change of venue
1. Draft a stipulation and agreed order changing venue. I do them on one page, single-spaced if necessary. Stipulation on top giving reason as both living in Snohomish county, signed by each; agreed order on bottom, signed by each as either presenting (the presenter) or waiving notice of presentment (the one who chooses not to go to court).
Go to ex parte on the 2nd floor West of the King County courthouse, and stand in line. Call ahead to see if the file needs to be ordered from the clerk's office ahead of time for an agreed change of venue. Ask an attorney there how to stamp your copies. Ask the clerk (6th floor) for their procedure after the order is entered.
2. But really, why bother? If you are in agreement, take yoour agreed support order to ex parte instead.