Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Can I take the kids out of state? Can he?

I have full custody of my two children. Recently I took them out of state for the holidays. Before I left, my ex-husband said that I didn't have a legal right to take them out of state. It doesn't state anywhere in the divorce paperwork whether or not he nor I can or can't cross the state line, only that I must notify him if I move out of state. Do I have the right to take the children on vacations outside of WA? Does he? Can he take the kids out of WA without my knowledge or permission?


Asked on 12/28/06, 1:12 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Christopher Steuart IT Forensics, Inc.

Re: Can I take the kids out of state? Can he?

What do you mean by full custody? It is an overworked term and generally misunderstood concept and rarely granted in Washington State. Generally it would mean that you have complete and absolute control and decision making authority to the exclusion of the other parent, and the child resides exclusively with you. If there are limitations on traveling with the chld they would be described in the parenting plan.

Read more
Answered on 12/28/06, 4:46 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Washington