Decisions about where your child will live, how much time they spend with each parent, and how their expenses are covered are some of the hardest parts of a family law case. A Story Law child custody lawyer in Bellevue, WA combines clear legal advice with strong advocacy in court and in negotiation, so your parenting plan and child support orders reflect your child’s needs and your role in their life.
Washington law uses terms like “parenting plan,” “residential schedule,” and “decision-making authority” rather than just “custody” and “visitation.” Many parents still call it “child custody,” but the core questions are the same: where your child lives, how major decisions are made, and how each parent stays involved. At Story Law, we explain how these rules work in practice and how judges typically look at parenting arrangements, so you understand the legal landscape before you make decisions.
Child custody is about more than labels. Courts look at what arrangement serves your child’s best interests, taking into account the history of caregiving, each parent’s ability to meet daily needs, and any safety concerns. Your Story Law attorney helps you present a clear picture of your relationship with your child, whether you resolve your case by agreement or through a hearing.
Parenting time can range from equal shared schedules to limited visits, depending on your child’s needs and the facts of your case. We help you propose, negotiate, or litigate a schedule that is workable, specific, and enforceable.
Child support is meant to cover a share of your child’s day-to-day expenses, not to reward or punish either parent. Washington has child support guidelines that consider income, the number of children, and the parenting schedule. A Story Law attorney helps you understand how those guidelines apply in your case, and when deviations may be appropriate.
We look at concrete expenses such as:
The court generally considers each parent’s income, earning history, and, in some cases, potential earnings. We help you gather pay stubs, tax returns, and other financial records so the calculation is based on accurate numbers.
Not every custody or support case has to go to trial. Many parents reach workable parenting plans and support agreements through structured negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law. At Story Law, we come prepared for litigation, but we also use these tools when they can achieve a solid result with less conflict.
A strong parenting plan sets expectations and reduces future disputes. We help you:
Jobs change, children grow, and sometimes an old parenting plan or child support order no longer fits your family. Washington law allows modifications in certain circumstances, but you must meet specific legal standards and provide evidence to support your request.
We help you gather the records that matter most—such as updated financial documents, school records, medical reports, and communications—so your modification request is supported by clear facts.
At Story Law, child custody and child support are central parts of our family law practice. Whether you are establishing a first parenting plan, seeking enforcement or modification, or responding to a request filed by the other parent, we provide strategic advice and representation tailored to your situation. With a child custody lawyer from our Bellevue office by your side, you can make informed decisions and focus on what matters most—your child’s stability and well-being.
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