Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Re: Custody of grand children

You need to be able to PROVE your case before you do anything. Might be wise to hire a private investigator to substantiate your allegations. I can give you a referral if you tell me your zip code (if I know somebody there).

AFTER you get some proof, then call CPS and report what is going on and be prepared, that day to file a 3rd party custody action.

In order to do a 3rd party petition you have to ask the Washington State Patrol for your (and your husband or other adults living in your home) criminal history. If you want to set this up properly, the sooner you get that information the better.

3rd party actions are unusual when the parents are married and living together and have the children with them. If you file a frivolous action, you could get socked with attorney fees and costs from your daughter and her husband. Rather than risk that, especially when you are so concerned about the children, get everything lined up first, and then act.

If it is an emergency you can call the police and report what is going on. They will not be interested unless and until somebody is hurt, unfortunately. So, start with a PI.

Hope this helps you sort it out. Elizabeth Powell