• if both parents agree to mutual decision-making;

• the existence of any physical or sexual child or spouse abuse, neglect or abandonment; 

• the history of participation of each parent in the decision-making process; 

• whether the parents have demonstrated an ability and desire to cooperate in the decision-making process; 

• the parents geographical proximity to each other, to the extent that it would affect their ability to make timely mutual decisions.

In determining the residency component of child custody, a Washington Court will consider:

•  the strength, nature, and stability of the child's relationship with each parent, including the parent's performance of daily parental functions; 

• any spouse or child abuse or neglect or substance abuse;

• the history of participation of each parent in child-rearing; 

• the wishes of the parents;

• the wishes of the child, if of sufficient age and maturity to express an opinion; 

• the child's relationship with siblings and other significant family members; 

• any agreement between the parties; and

• each parent's employment schedule. The first factor is to be given the most weight.

A Washington Court will only order an equal-time alternating residential provision if: 

• there is no child or spouse abuse, neglect, or abandonment, or substance abuse; 

• the parents have agreed to such provisions; 

• there is a history of shared parenting and cooperation;

• the parents are available to each other, especially in terms of geographic location; and 

• the provisions are in the best interests of the child.

In filing a petition for dissolution of marriage, the party must include a proposed parenting plan if the parties have a minor child. The parenting plan should contain provisions for

• dispute resolution;

• a residential schedule for the child; 

• allocation of decision-making authority relating to the child.

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