Washington § 26.11.020 - Petition for visitation — Criteria — Ongoing and substantial relationship with child — Relatives — Likelihood of harm to child.

Full text of Washington Revised Code of Washington § 26.11.020 — Petition for visitation — Criteria — Ongoing and substantial relationship with child — Relatives — Likelihood of harm to child., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26.11.020. Petition for visitation — Criteria — Ongoing and substantial relationship with child — Relatives — Likelihood of harm to child.

(1) A person who is not the parent of the child may petition for visitation with the child if:
(a) The petitioner has an ongoing and substantial relationship with the child;
(b) The petitioner is a relative of the child or a parent of the child; and
(c) The child is likely to suffer harm or a substantial risk of harm if visitation is denied.
(2) A person has established an ongoing and substantial relationship with a child if the person and the child have had a relationship formed and sustained through interaction, companionship, and mutuality of interest and affection, without expectation of financial compensation, with substantial continuity for at least two years unless the child is under the age of two years, in which case there must be substantial continuity for at least half of the child's life, and with a shared expectation of and desire for an ongoing relationship.
[ 2018 c 183 s 2.]

Source: official Washington text · Last verified 2026-08-27

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Frequently Asked Questions About Washington § 26.11.020

What does Revised Code of Washington § 26.11.020 cover?

Section 26.11.020 ("Petition for visitation — Criteria — Ongoing and substantial relationship with child — Relatives — Likelihood of harm to child.") is part of the Revised Code of Washington, the codified statutory law of Washington. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Washington § 26.11.020?

A common citation format is "Revised Code of Washington § 26.11.020" (Washington). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Washington law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Washington official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Washington attorney.

How does Washington § 26.11.020 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Washington can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

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