At Northwest Family Law, we help Kirkland families handle minor guardianship with clarity and compassion.
We put our clients first. As one client said, “I was always kept informed of the progress of my case, sometimes even after hours.” If your case is uncontested or requires contested hearings, we provide the advocacy and support you need to secure a child’s future.
When parents cannot provide safe or stable care, Washington law allows a court to appoint a guardian to protect a child’s well-being. Couples that have been divorced or separated often raise questions about custody, support, guardianship, and more.
What is Minor Guardianship in Kirkland?
Minor guardianship allows a court to appoint a responsible adult to care for a child when parents can’t. In Washington, this process is governed by RCW 11.130, which outlines who can file, how guardians are appointed, and their duties.
A guardian handles key decisions about the child’s living situation, education, healthcare, and others.
In Kirkland and King County, families often seek guardianship to keep children with trusted relatives and make sure legal authority for important decisions, such as enrolling in the Lake Washington School District or seeking care at EvergreenHealth.
Our Guardianship Services in Kirkland
- Filing guardianship petitions
- Temporary or emergency guardianship
- Contested guardianship litigation
- Ongoing guardian support
- Modification or termination of guardianship
- Advising relatives and kinship caregivers
- Coordination with child welfare services
- Court representation
Why Work With Northwest Family Law
Families across Kirkland and the Eastside choose Northwest Family Law because of the way we approach guardianship cases.
- Responsive and communicative. Clients often mention how we provide frequent updates, sometimes even after hours, so they never feel left in the dark.
- Compassionate and respectful. We listen carefully and treat each client with dignity during what can be an overwhelming process.
- Skilled in Washington guardianship law. Our attorneys understand how to present a strong case in hearings.
- Trusted to resolve complex cases. Many families come to us after struggling with prior legal representation. We fix mistakes to move cases toward resolution.
- Known for integrity and results. We set realistic expectations and then work hard to achieve the best possible outcome.
Learn More About Northwest Family Law
Northwest Family Law was established with a clear mission. To support families through challenging transitions and help them create stable, secure futures. With a strong focus on the long-term well-being of children, our team works with both empathy and strategic insight.
We offer thoughtful and effective representation in guardianship and broader family law matters throughout Washington. Our clients value our straightforward communication and dedicated advocacy to guiding families toward lasting solutions, always with the child’s best interests at heart.
Northwest Family Law’s Minor Guardianship Process in Kirkland
At our firm, we guide Kirkland families through each phase of the minor guardianship process. Here’s what to expect:
- Case Initiation
- File a guardianship petition with the King County Superior Court or the court in the child’s home county
- Serve legal notice to parents and other required relatives
- Court Evaluation
- The court reviews the petition and case details
- A guardian ad litem or court investigator may be appointed
- Background checks or home studies may be required
- Guardianship Hearing
- A judge hears the case and reviews evidence and testimony
- The court decides if guardianship is appropriate based on the child’s best interests
- Guardian Appointment
- If approved, the guardian is granted legal authority over decisions related to:
- Education (e.g., enrolling in Lake Washington School District)
- Healthcare (e.g., access to providers like EvergreenHealth)
- Daily care and general welfare
- Continued Legal Support
- We clearly explain the guardian’s legal responsibilities
- Ongoing legal guidance is provided to confirm compliance with court requirements
Which Courts Handle Guardianship for Kirkland Families?
If you live in Kirkland and need to establish guardianship for a minor, your case will be handled through the King County Superior Court, which has jurisdiction over guardianship matters in this area.
Guardianship hearings for Kirkland residents typically take place at one of two main court locations in Seattle:
- King County Courthouse – Downtown Seattle
This courthouse handles a wide range of family law matters, including guardianship petitions. - Children and Family Justice Center (CFJC)
The CFJC is specifically designed for cases involving minors and families. Many guardianship hearings are held here due to the court’s focus on child-centered legal proceedings.
Local Resources Northwest Family Law Works With
- King County Superior Court
- Family Law Facilitators
- Family Court Services
- Family Law CASA of King County
- Lake Washington School District
- LWSD McKinney-Vento Program
- EvergreenHealth in Kirkland
- Friends of Youth in Kirkland
- Youth Eastside Services
- Kirkland Parks & Community Services
- Hopelink in Kirkland
- 2-1-1 Community Resource Line in King County
- Northwest Justice Project
- King County Bar Association
Take the Next Step Toward Protecting a Child’s Future
If you are considering guardianship in Kirkland, you do not have to face the process alone. At Northwest Family Law, we combine knowledge of Washington’s guardianship laws with a deep understanding of the King County courts that handle these cases.
Contact us online to schedule a confidential consultation. We will listen to your concerns as we stand with you while you take the steps needed to secure a safe and stable future for the child in your care.