[WA] What forms are needed to change visitation under an existing temporary parenting plan?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that navigating court forms can be challenging. Have you already filed a temporary parenting plan with the court?

Lexi, Chatbot

Are you currently in a legal dispute regarding visitation, or is this a mutual agreement with the other parent?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the family lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your visitation schedule.

Jon

Hello and thank you for reaching out to our service! I'm Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, here to help. Legal matters can feel overwhelming, but you're in good hands. I'll make sure things are clear and guide you toward the best solution for your situation. Just a note, our conversation is for general legal information only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.

Jon

Could you please let me know which state this legal matter is taking place in?

Jon

If you're open to sharing a bit more about what's going on, I can give you advice that really fits your situation. If not, that's completely fine, I'm still happy to help with general guidance. What would you like to do?

Jon

Are you still in need of assistance? Before I share my thoughts based on what I know so far, is there anything you'd like to add or clarify? Without any additional information, I can only give you a general answer based on what you have provided so far.

Jon

Thanks. Could you tell me more about the current visitation schedule and how it conflicts with your days off?

Jon

I understand this can be a bit overwhelming. Could you share if there have been any recent changes in your work schedule that might have prompted this need to adjust the visitation plan?

Jon

Since your case is already active in Skagit County and you're trying to change a temporary parenting plan, what you're really doing is asking the same court to update the current arrangement, not starting over from scratch. The judge already has your case, so you're just requesting a change to the existing temporary orders while everything is still pending. To do that, you'll need to file a motion explaining what you want changed and why. The main form for this is the Motion for Temporary Family Law Order (FL Modify 623), the mandatory form under RCW 26.09.260, Washington's statute governing modification of a parenting plan or custody decree, where you formally ask the court to adjust the current visitation schedule. Along with that, you'll need to include a Proposed Parenting Plan (FL All Family 140) that clearly shows the new schedule you're asking for, like switching to Saturday and Sunday visits. This lets the judge see exactly what you want the new arrangement to look like. You'll also need to submit a Declaration (FL All Family 135), which is your written explanation to the court. This is where you explain in plain terms that your work schedule has changed and that the current Wednesday through Friday visitation no longer matches your days off. The goal here is to show the judge that there's a real, practical reason for the change and that it makes sense for your situation.

Skagit County may also require a local form, often called something like an Information for Temporary Order or a Note for Calendar. This is important because it's how you actually schedule your hearing date. Without it, your motion won't get in front of a judge. Once your paperwork is ready, you'll need to schedule a hearing. Filing the motion alone isn't enough, you have to "note" it for a specific court date so a judge can review it and hear your request. After filing everything with the Clerk's Office, you're also required to serve the other parent with copies of all the documents. This step is mandatory so they have a fair chance to respond. Before your hearing, you should also prepare a Temporary Family Law Order (FL Modify 624). This is the document the judge will sign if they agree with your request. You fill it out ahead of time, leaving the signature line blank, so it's ready to go if the court approves the change.

Jon

Please take some time to review the information above, as I had not heard back from you in some time. After reading through, please let me know if that helps clear things up for you. If you have any other questions or need more help, please don't hesitate to ask, I'm here to support you!

Jon

Yes, you will need to fill out both a temporary order and a note for calendar. The temporary order is necessary to outline the changes you are requesting, and the note for calendar is used to schedule your hearing date with the court. Make sure to file these documents with the court and serve them to the other party involved.

Jon

I do hope the information I provided was helpful and addressed your question. If there's anything else you need, please don't hesitate to reach out, I'm always happy to assist. Wishing you a fantastic day ahead!