Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
My boyfriend has full legal custody of his 5-year-old daughter. The child’s mother is not happy about this even though she has not been in her daughter’s life. My boy recently moved to Washington with his daughter from California. His custody papers say that the mother can have “reasonable” visit with the child within her father’s standards. It does not say anything about relocation to another state. My question is since he is now living in Washington, can he switch his custody papers to Washington’s jurisdiction, or does he even need to do so? The mother still resides in California.
Your boyfriend will not likely be able to change court jurisdictions. Since the matter was heard in California, Washington State will not have jurisdiction over the issue. You will have to find a California State law that allows a change in jurisdiction, otherwise, the issues regarding the matter will still be heard there.
