{"id":377043,"date":"2018-12-06T11:30:48","date_gmt":"2018-12-06T16:30:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/state\/washington-law\/visitation-rights-in-washington.html"},"modified":"2025-08-08T14:54:09","modified_gmt":"2025-08-08T19:54:09","slug":"visitation-rights-in-washington","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/washington-law\/visitation-rights-in-washington.html","title":{"rendered":"Visitation Rights in Washington"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Visitation Rights in Washington<\/h1>\n
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\n By Olivia Wathne, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Jordan Walker, J.D.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

In Washington state, visitation rights are often detailed within a court-approved parenting plan that defines visitation time with each parent and, in some cases, qualified non-parents. Courts prioritize the child\u2019s best interests, which usually means encouraging frequent, meaningful contact with both parents through structured schedules and custody arrangements. While a non-custodial parent is typically entitled to reasonable visitation, courts will limit or require supervision if safety concerns such as abuse, domestic violence, or certain criminal histories exist. Non-parents like grandparents may seek visitation if it benefits the child, and existing plans can be modified upon a substantial change in circumstances.<\/i><\/blockquote>\r\n

The residential schedule<\/a> is based on the type of custody arrangement. If the parenting plan reflects an arrangement equivalent to shared physical custody, both parents spend significant time with the child. A sole physical custody arrangement involves the child living primarily with one parent and visiting the other.<\/p>\r\n

If the parents can’t agree on visitation terms, the court steps in to make the arrangements. For instance, the court will order supervised visitation (limited to visits supervised by a designated adult) when it’s necessary to protect the child. The legal standard used to make these decisions is the "best interests of the child"<\/a> test.<\/p>\r\n

Washington Custody and Visitation Rights<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

In Washington, the child visitation schedule is designed to ensure the child’s best interests. Washington courts<\/a> encourage both parents to be actively involved in their child’s life, typically through a detailed parenting plan<\/a> that outlines the visitation schedule. This schedule specifies the non-custodial parent’s parenting time, including regular weekdays, weekends, holidays, and school breaks.<\/p>\r\n

Courts often favor co-parenting arrangements that allow for frequent and meaningful contact with both parents, whether through joint physical custody<\/a> or a more traditional schedule. If parents cannot agree on a visitation plan, the court intervenes to establish a custody order that reflects the child’s needs and the parents’ ability to provide a nurturing environment.<\/p>\r\n

The Washington Supreme Court<\/a> supports the involvement of stepparents and other family members, such as blood relatives, in the child’s life when appropriate. Affidavits and other legal documents may be required to assert custody rights and parental rights. This ensures that all parties’ legitimate interests are considered in promoting the child’s well-being. This structured approach helps maintain a consistent and supportive relationship between the child and both parents.<\/p>\r\n

Visitation Laws in Washington: Summary<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

Reading and understanding statutes can be a daunting task. The best way to get help is by consulting with an attorney. However, you can get started by reading a plain English version of the content. Read on for a condensed guide to Washington laws on visitation rights.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Washington Visitation Rights Statutes<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

Revised Code of Washington<\/b>:<\/p>\r\n

Washington Visitation Rights: Limitations<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

A parent who isn’t granted custody of the child is typically entitled to reasonable visitation rights. These rights are limited if the parent engages in any of the following conduct:<\/p>\r\n

Non-Parent Rights in Washington<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

The petitioner must be a relative who has an ongoing and substantial relationship with the child and must prove the following by clear and convincing evidence:<\/p>\r\n

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  • Denial of visitation would likely cause harm or a substantial risk of harm to the child<\/li>\r\n
  • Visitation is in the child\u2019s best interests<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr>

Modification of Parenting Plan or Custody Decree in Washington<\/b><\/p>\r\n<\/th>\r\n

Washington doesn’t want to modify parenting plans to decrease visitation. However, a court may modify a prior parenting plan or custody decree if there’s a substantial change in circumstances after the plan or decree was in place or information surfaces that was unknown at the time of the original plan or decree.<\/p>\r\n

Even if a court restricts visitation, it will likely allow the parent to work toward regaining regular visitation. This may include working with a counselor or therapist.<\/p>\r\n<\/td>\r\n<\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\r\n

Note:<\/b><\/i> State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please <\/i>consult an attorney<\/i><\/a> or conduct your own legal research to verify the Washington law(s) you are researching.<\/i><\/p>\r\n

Visitation Rights in Washington: Related Resources<\/b><\/h2>\r\n