The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) addresses cases where child custody matters jump state lines resulting in lack of clarity in terms of which state’s court can exercise jurisdiction over child custody determinations.
The grounds for exercising jurisdiction are broader where there has been no prior proceeding (e.g. initial divorce proceeding with children). In contrast, the grounds for exercising “ongoing and exclusive” jurisdiction where a prior “determination” has been made are narrower (e.g. modification of child custody order).
Our law practice has gained familiarity with state courts both in Idaho and Washington. We have successfully litigated complex UCCJEA cross-jurisdictional child custody matters requiring resolution of jurisdictional conflicts.