Washington Divorce with Children
Everything you need to know about divorce with children in Washington — custody types, child support guidelines, parenting plans, and protecting your children through the process. Updated for 2026.
Types of Custody in Washington
Legal Custody
The right to make major decisions about your child's education, healthcare, religion, and welfare.
Physical Custody
Determines where the child lives on a day-to-day basis and the parenting time schedule.
"Best Interests of the Child" Factors
Washington courts consider multiple factors when determining custody arrangements:
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Divorce.ai helps you build a comprehensive parenting plan that meets Washington court requirements.
Child Support in Washington
Washington uses the Income Shares Model under Chapter 26.19 RCW and the Washington State Child Support Schedule. Both parents' net incomes are combined to determine the Basic Child Support Obligation from the Economic Table (RCW § 26.19.020). Each parent's share is proportional to their percentage of combined net income. The Economic Table is presumptive for combined monthly net incomes up to $50,000. Neither parent's obligation may exceed 45% of net income except for good cause. Adjustments are made for residential schedule, health insurance, daycare, and other special expenses. Effective January 1, 2026, the self-support reserve increases from 125% to 180% of the federal poverty level.
Official Washington child support calculator →Factors Considered
Additional Forms Required (Children)
| Form | Name |
|---|---|
| FL All Family 140 | Proposed Parenting Plan |
| FL All Family 150 | Child Support Worksheets |
Mandatory Parenting Course
Washington requires both parents to complete a parenting education course when filing for divorce with minor children.
Most Washington counties require both parents to complete a mandatory parenting seminar when minor children are involved. The course typically covers child development, effects of parental separation on children, and conflict resolution. Course length is usually 4 hours. Fees range from $25 to $70 depending on the provider and county. Many courts will not finalize the dissolution until both parents have completed the course. Online options are available in most counties.
Typical cost: $60
Protect your children through the process
Divorce.ai helps you create a child-focused parenting plan and prepares all custody-related Washington forms.
What Goes in a Parenting Plan?
A comprehensive parenting plan should cover:
Regular Parenting Schedule
Week-by-week schedule of where the child lives and when transitions occur.
Holiday & Vacation Schedule
How holidays, school breaks, and vacation time are divided between parents.
Decision-Making Authority
Who makes decisions about education, healthcare, extracurriculars, and religious upbringing.
Communication Rules
How the child communicates with the non-custodial parent (phone, video calls, etc.).
Transportation & Exchange
Who handles pickups/dropoffs and where exchanges occur.
Dispute Resolution
How disagreements about the parenting plan will be resolved (mediation first, then court).
Relocation Rules
Notice requirements and procedure if either parent wants to move.
Tips for Protecting Your Children During Divorce
Never speak negatively about the other parent in front of your children. It puts them in the middle and can harm your custody case.
Maintain routines. Keep school, activities, and daily routines as consistent as possible during the transition.
Communicate openly with your children in age-appropriate ways. Let them know the divorce is not their fault.
Consider counseling. A child therapist can help children process their emotions during this time.