Sometimes the person who has raised a child is not a biological or adoptive parent. Washington's de facto parentage law allows a person who has fully taken on a parental role to seek legal recognition of that relationship.
These cases are fact-intensive and emotionally significant. We help clients on either side present a clear, well-supported case.
Establishing de facto parentage
To be recognized as a de facto parent, a person generally must show they lived with the child, took on full parental responsibilities without expecting compensation, and bonded with the child in a parental way — with the support or knowledge of a legal parent. The court must find recognition is in the child's best interests.
Frequently asked questions
Who can claim de facto parentage?
Someone who has functioned as a child's parent — such as a stepparent or a partner who helped raise the child — may petition, if they meet the statutory requirements.
Does a de facto parent have the same rights as a legal parent?
Once established, a de facto parent is recognized as a legal parent for purposes such as a parenting plan and support.
Ready to talk through your situation?
Reach a Schwab Law attorney in Spokane today.