Big changes are coming to King County Superior Court in 2025, impacting how Minor Guardianships are handled! The court is transitioning Minor Guardianships between departments and bringing in two new judges to streamline the process.
Recent changes to Minor Guardianship court procedures can be overwhelming; new court locations, judges, and processes all create uncertainty. Clear, prompt communication and attentive legal guidance are essential during this transition. Delays may occur as the court transitions, but we’ll keep a close eye on things to keep your case moving forward.
What is Minor Guardianship?
When parents can't fulfill their responsibilities, a minor guardianship steps in to ensure the child's well-being. A court appoints a guardian to care for the child's physical and emotional needs. This is different from adoption, as the child's parents retain some rights. A minor guardianship can be necessary for a variety of reasons, such as:
If a parent is suffering from a debilitating illness
When a parent is incarcerated
If a parent is struggling with substance abuse
When a parent is deployed by the military
New Court Locations & Judges: Streamlining the Process
Two dedicated judges are taking the helm of Title 11 Minor Guardianship cases, offering more predictability in trial assignments:
KENT cases: Judge Phelps presiding in MRJC 3F on Thursdays and Fridays.
SEA cases: Judge Yip presiding in CCFJC 4C on Fridays.
Judge Phelps, the first African-American woman to win a contested election for an open seat on the King County Superior Court Bench. She has served in her judicial role since 2017.
Judge Yip formerly worked for the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, most recently as the Criminal Division Assistant Chief Deputy. He has served in his judicial role since 2022.
Both Judge Phelps and Judge Yip will also handle dependency and termination trials, promoting a more efficient and cohesive experience for families.
Minor Guardianships are vital for providing stability and security for children when their parents cannot meet their responsibilities. These changes aim to improve the process, making it smoother and more efficient for families facing difficult circumstances.
View Ridge Family Law & Estate Planning: Your Trusted Guide for Navigating Minor Guardianships in King County
At View Ridge Family Law & Estate Planning, we understand the intricacies of Minor Guardianships and the impact these changes may have on your case. We're dedicated to helping families navigate this dynamic and intricate legal landscape.
Call us at 206-703-0764 or schedule a consultation online to learn more about how we can support you during this transition.
Comments