Domestic Violence and Child Custody

Domestic violence charges can have a serious impact on the rest of your life. If you have questions about domestic violence issues, contact our firm to schedule a consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney today.

Defense of Domestic Violence Allegations in the Seattle Area

If you have been falsely accused of domestic violence, you should know about the many ways that a conviction can haunt the rest of your life.

Domestic violence can affect the outcome of an impending divorce and your child custody rights, and separate you from those you love.

These negative outcomes don't have to happen. In greater Seattle, the domestic violence and criminal defense attorney to speak with is Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue.

Your initial consultation is always free of charge. Contact us at 1-888-339-5987 to speak with our experienced Washington lawyer.

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For more than 15 years of practice in western Washington, the law office of Peter P. Bonnell has protected the rights of those falsely accused of domestic violence.

Have you been wrongfully accused of spousal or child abuse, stalking, harassment or sexual assault? You need to discuss your case with attorney Bonnell right away.

Domestic violence can tear a family apart.

Bellevue defense attorney Peter P. Bonnell can defend you against "he said, she said" allegations of domestic violence. Our skilled lawyer knows what is at stake in your case, and protects your rights accordingly.

If you have been charged with domestic violence or fourth degree assault, you should schedule your free initial consultation with Peter P. Bonnell. 1-888-339-5987.

Under state law, domestic violence charges should be considered by the court before making any decisions regarding child custody. Thus, those who have been charged with domestic violence may be denied custody rights altogether or granted limited, supervised visitation with their children. Contact Law Office of Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue, Washington for more information on how domestic violence charges may affect the outcome of your child custody proceedings. An experienced attorney can review your case and provide you with answers to your questions.

Child Custody - The Best Interests of the Child

The guiding principle used by courts in child custody cases is the best interests of the child. The court will perform an analysis of several factors to determine in each custody case what will be the best custody outcome for the child. Some of these factors include:

Each parent's wishes
The child's wishes
Interaction and interrelationships between the child and each parent and any other siblings or family members
The child's adjustment to the home, school and community
The mental and physical health of the child and parents

Domestic Violence as a Factor

Every state also requires courts to consider any domestic violence allegations or charges prior to making custody determinations. Many states have adopted the language of the Model Code on Domestic and Family Violence, which creates a presumption that it is not in the best interests of the child to grant the parent charged with domestic violence sole or joint custody.

This presumption may be rebutted under certain circumstances, such as cases where the perpetrator successfully completed a batterer's treatment program, an alcohol or drug abuse counseling program or a parenting class. Also, a court will consider the number of incidents of domestic violence and the proximity of the incidents to the custody proceedings.

Generally, courts do not like to remove a parent completely from a child's life in custody decisions and favor the child maintaining a healthy relationship with both parents. However, in cases were domestic violence occurred or has been alleged, the court may determine it is in the child's best interests to have no or very limited time with the abusive parent.

Conclusion

A domestic violence allegation, arrest or conviction can complicate child custody issues. Contact an experienced attorney at Law Office of Peter P. Bonnell in Bellevue, Washington to learn more about your best options for maintaining a relationship with your child.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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