Moving with a child after separation is a legal process, not a personal decision. Whether you're seeking to move or responding to a proposed relocation, the first 60 days shape the outcome.
Washington has a specific statutory process for parental relocations. The parent seeking to move must provide formal notice with required content and timing. The other parent has a defined window to object. Once objected to, the case proceeds through a structured process that weighs the child’s interests against each parent’s circumstances.
Relocation cases are among the most consequential in family law. If the move is approved, the existing parenting plan has to be rebuilt around the new geography. If the move is denied, the parent proposing the move faces a difficult choice between the move and the child. Either outcome reshapes the family for years.
Whether you’re the parent seeking to relocate or the parent responding to a proposed move, the procedural requirements are strict. Missing a deadline, failing to provide required content in the notice, or responding inadequately can affect the outcome regardless of the underlying merits.
We start with the statute. Washington’s relocation law is specific, and the answer to whether a move is likely to be approved depends heavily on the fact pattern — distance, reason for the move, the existing schedule, the child’s ties to the current community, and each parent’s historical involvement.
We build the case carefully whether we’re advocating for the move or against it. Courts want to see the child’s interests centered and the parent’s reasoning grounded in something more substantive than “it would be nice.”
“Better to talk to an attorney before you do something, rather than after you've done something.”
— Paul Posadas, Founding AttorneyWashington's relocation statute is specific about notice content and timing. We make sure your notice meets every requirement, or that your objection is timely and properly framed.
Courts focus on the child's interests — education, relationships, stability, and how the move affects the child's relationship with each parent. We build the record around these factors, not around the parents' preferences.
If the move is approved, the parenting plan has to be redesigned around the new distance. We draft realistic schedules that preserve both parents' roles where possible.
Relocation cases combine procedural requirements with fact-intensive advocacy:
Washington requires specific content and timing for relocation notice. Delivering an adequate notice is the first gate — defective notices create openings for objection.
The non-relocating parent has a defined window to object. Missing the window or objecting without proper basis can waive the right to contest.
Washington's statute lists factors the court must consider. Every relocation case is argued against these factors — not against general fairness arguments.
The relocating parent must propose a revised parenting plan that accounts for the distance. The proposal itself becomes evidence of good faith or lack of it.
Schools, extended family, extracurricular involvement, and stability in the current location are weighed against the benefits of the proposed new location.
Job opportunities, family support, remarriage, and safety concerns are all weighed. Not all reasons carry equal weight in a contested relocation.
Before we tell you what we think, we hear what you're facing.
→You should understand the legal landscape before you make decisions in it.
→A real plan with real contingencies — not a template.
→Inside the courtroom, at the negotiation table, and everywhere in between.
→You'll never wonder what's happening in your case.
→The case ends. Your life continues. We plan for both.
→It depends on the distance and the existing parenting plan. Moves within the child's current school district typically don't require formal notice. Moves outside the district trigger Washington's relocation statute and its notice requirements.
The objection moves the case into contested territory. The court will weigh the statutory factors and decide whether the move serves the child's interests. If allowed, the parenting plan is redesigned around the new geography. If denied, the relocating parent faces a difficult choice.
Washington sets a specific window from the date of notice. Missing the deadline can waive your right to contest the move, regardless of the merits of your objection.
Washington's statute lists factors including the child's relationship with each parent, the age and needs of the child, the quality of life in both locations, the reasons for the move, and the feasibility of preserving the child's relationship with the non-moving parent.
Generally no. Moving with the child before the court rules on the objection can be treated as a violation of the parenting plan and can damage your case significantly.
The revised parenting plan often changes residential time, which can change the child support calculation. Travel costs between households may also be allocated between the parents as part of the modified plan.
What Clients Say
Strata Family Law represents relocation clients across Thurston County (Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Rainier, Tenino), Pierce County (Tacoma, Puyallup, University Place, Lakewood, Gig Harbor, DuPont, Bonney Lake), and Lewis County (Chehalis, Centralia, Napavine, Morton). Whether your case is in Olympia, Tacoma, or anywhere across the greater South Sound, you get the same team, the same standard, and the same commitment.
Take the first step
One conversation can change everything.
A consultation isn't a commitment. It's a chance to understand your situation, ask the questions that keep you up at night, and find out what your options are.
Call (360) 295-9577We'll get back to you within one business day.
Our office locations
Two offices. One standard. Whether you're in Olympia or Tacoma, you get the same thoughtful counsel and the same team in your corner.
Olympia Office
Direct Line
(360) 295-9577Tacoma Office
Direct Line
(253) 733-1533