Register an out-of-state custody order in Washington
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If you have a custody order or parenting plan from another state, and you, the other parent, or the children live in Washington State, learn how you might have to register the order here to make sure the order is followed in Washington.
1. Fast facts
Why should I register my out-of-state custody order in Washington?
You must register it to be able to enforce it in Washington. Enforcing a court order means making sure that the person required to do something (or stop doing something in a court order does in fact do (or stop doing) it.
Example: Tai and Jo were divorced in Oregon. The Oregon court gave Tai custody of their young child and Tai visitation on Saturday mornings. Tai and the child have moved to Washington. Jo routinely returns the child a few hours late, which violates the custody order and is disruptive for the child.
Tai has talked to Jo and written emails about returning the child when the order says to, but Jo refuses. If Tai wants to take further legal action, like filing for contempt, to get Jo to follow the Oregon custody and visitation order, Tai must first register the Oregon order in Washington.
What will it cost me to register an out-of-state custody order in Washington?
There might be a filing fee to register this order. If you think you can’t afford it, you can file a Motion for Filing Fee Waiver.
You must file 2 copies of your out-of-state custody order. One must be certified. You can get a certified copy from the clerk of the court where the order came from. You’ll probably have to pay for this.
Do I have to let the other party know I’m doing this?
Under state law, the court (Court Administration) must notify the other party. We explain how to give Court Administration your papers and have them notify the other party.
I got my Order registered. Do I need to do anything else to enforce it?
If the other party still doesn’t follow the Order, you may need to file a motion for contempt.
Answer a few questions on Get Family and Safety Forms to get the right forms for your situation.