Minor Guardianship
Until 2021, a Nonparental Custody action was brought when a third party (people other than the actual parents) wanted to obtain custody of minor children where either or both parents are unfit, or where the children have been voluntarily placed with a third party by the parents. Since that time, however, the Washington State Legislature has brought those types of cases under the Guardianship statute (RCW Title 11), rather than the Family Law statute (RCW Title 26).
Today, Minor Guardianship actions can be filed with the Superior Court for nonparents to help minor children that are in harmful situations. Minor Guardianships can be of varying duration depending upon the circumstances of the children.
If you would like to read more about Minor Guardianships, please visit our blog page for a more in depth discussion of this and a variety of family law topics. If you have a specific concern or question about Minor Guardianships, please contact us at office@bainslawfirm.com or call at 253-838-3377.