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Family Law in Kent and King County: Protecting What Matters Most
Family law issues in Kent often involve deeply personal and emotional decisions. Whether you're filing for divorce, working through parenting disputes, or seeking court protection from domestic abuse, the outcome of your case can have lasting effects on your home life, financial well-being, and future relationships. Understanding your rights and responsibilities under Washington State law is an essential first step.
In King County, family law is designed to prioritize equity, the safety of vulnerable individuals, and—above all—the best interests of children. While the law provides a framework for resolving these matters, every family situation is unique. That’s why it’s important to work with an experienced Kent family law attorney who can guide you through the process with confidence and clarity.
Family Law Cases Commonly Handled in KentBelow are some of the most frequent types of family law cases in Kent, along with key legal language and links to the relevant statutes:
Divorce (Dissolution of Marriage)
"When a party who (1) is a resident of this state… petitions for a dissolution of marriage… (and) the other party joins in the petition or does not deny that the marriage or domestic partnership is irretrievably broken, the court shall enter a decree of dissolution."
Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not need to prove infidelity or misconduct to end your marriage. If either spouse believes the relationship cannot be repaired, that is legally sufficient.
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.030 – Dissolution of Marriage
Parenting Plans and Residential Schedules
"The best interests of the child are served by a parenting arrangement that best maintains a child’s emotional growth, health and stability, and physical care."
Instead of assigning "custody," Washington courts require parents to create a detailed parenting plan. This plan will specify where the child will live, who makes major decisions, and how parental responsibilities are shared.
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.002 – Best Interests of the Child
Child Support Guidelines
"The legislature also intends that the child support obligation should be equitably apportioned between the parents."
Child support is calculated based on both parents’ incomes and the time each parent spends with the child. The goal is to ensure children receive consistent financial support in both households.
Read the statute: RCW 26.19.001 – Child Support Intent
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
"The court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse… in such amounts and for such periods of time as the court deems just..."
The court can award spousal support to one party based on need, length of the marriage, earning capacity, and other financial factors. It can be temporary or long-term, depending on your situation.
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.090 – Spousal Maintenance
Domestic Violence and Protection Orders
"The petitioner may petition for relief on behalf of himself or herself and on behalf of family or household members who are minors or vulnerable adults."
If you or your children are experiencing abuse or threats, the court can issue a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) to prevent the other party from contacting or approaching you.
Read the statute: RCW 7.105.100 – Protection Orders
If you're navigating any of these family law issues in Kent or elsewhere in King County, experienced legal support can help you protect your rights and create a path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Law in Kent and King County1. Can I request changes to my parenting plan or child support order after it’s been finalized?
Yes. Washington law allows for modifications to parenting plans or child support orders when there’s a substantial and material change in circumstances. This could include changes in income, a parent relocating, or evolving needs of the child. Any modification must still serve the child’s best interests.
“The court shall not modify a prior custody decree or a parenting plan unless it finds… a substantial change has occurred…”
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.260 – Modification of Parenting Plan
“The court shall not modify a prior custody decree or a parenting plan unless it finds… a substantial change has occurred…”
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.260 – Modification of Parenting Plan
2. Am I required to hire a lawyer for a family law case in Kent?
No, but it's often a wise choice. You have the right to represent yourself, but the legal process can be complex, especially in contested matters like parenting disputes or asset division. For those who choose to self-represent, King County provides a Family Law Facilitator Program that can help with forms and procedural questions.
Explore: King County Family Law Facilitator Program
Explore: King County Family Law Facilitator Program
3. What is the difference between legal separation and divorce in Washington?
A legal separation allows spouses to live apart with court orders regarding property, parenting, and support—but the couple remains legally married. This option is often used for personal, religious, or health insurance reasons. It can be converted to a divorce at a later date.
Read the statute: RCW 26.09 – Legal Separation
Read the statute: RCW 26.09 – Legal Separation
4. Can unmarried parents in Kent obtain a parenting plan?
Yes. Both parents have the legal right to seek a parenting plan regardless of marital status. Once legal parentage is established, either parent may petition the court to formalize residential schedules and decision-making roles.
Read the statute: RCW 26.26A.440 – Parentage and Parenting Plans
Read the statute: RCW 26.26A.440 – Parentage and Parenting Plans
5. What happens if there are concerns about abuse or neglect in a family law case?
If the court is presented with credible concerns about a child’s safety, it may issue emergency or temporary orders such as supervised visitation or no-contact provisions. In severe cases, Washington’s Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) may be called upon to investigate.
Learn more: Washington DCYF – Child Safety and Protection
Learn more: Washington DCYF – Child Safety and Protection
Family law cases touch every part of your life—from how often you see your children to how your finances are managed post-divorce. In Kent and across King County, family court is designed to prioritize fairness, protect children, and provide stability during periods of personal transition. But navigating that system alone can be overwhelming.
Whether you're dealing with divorce, modifying an existing parenting plan, or responding to a legal emergency, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal remedies available to you. These matters are not only legal—they’re emotional, financial, and deeply personal.
At the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we’ve helped hundreds of Kent families navigate complex family law issues with confidence and clarity. Our attorneys understand the unique challenges faced by local residents and will advocate fiercely on your behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind and legal stability.
