Honolulu And Oahu Representation For Child-Related Issues
Last updated on May 7, 2025
As any Hawaiian native can tell you, ‘Ohana is one of the most essential things in a person’s life. You would do anything to protect your ‘Ohana, and when it comes to protecting your children and their needs through legal issues, you need a family law attorney who will do the same.
At Coates Frey & Hackett, AAL LLLC, we have decades of experience representing our clients and their ‘Ohanas’ through their unique family law concerns. We are as committed to our clients’ needs as they are, and we are ready to offer you and your family the guidance you require.
How We Stand Up For Children
Our legal team takes the time to learn about the unique needs of our clients before we work with them to create a representation plan for them. We know every case is unique, and we work tirelessly to help all our clients through legal issues, including:
- Navigating adoptions
- Child custody matters
- Establishing paternity
- Guardianship of a minor
The outcomes of any of these matters can define a child’s entire life, and we can help you pursue the outcome that you and your children deserve. We employ creative and out-of-the-box thinking to ensure we present you with all available options for your legal needs before we begin seeking the optimal outcome you have chosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to some common questions regarding family law in Hawaii:
How is child support calculated and enforced in Hawaii?
The state of Hawaii Child Support Guidelines calculates child support by considering the income of both parents and the percentage of time each parent spends with the child. The Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) manages the enforcement of child support orders. It uses tools such as mandatory income withholding from wages or benefits, including unemployment benefits, to ensure timely and consistent payments. The state’s automated system often initiates enforcement actions automatically, so the custodial parent does not need to take any action to start enforcement.
What options do grandparents have for visitation rights?
The court presumes that a parent acts in the child’s best interest when making visitation decisions. Clear and convincing evidence showing harm can rebut this presumption if the court denies visitation. In Hawaii, grandparents can petition the court for reasonable visitation rights if they meet certain conditions such as the state being the child’s home state and the parent being unable to exercise visitation due to incarceration or death.
How are relocation cases handled when one parent wants to move with the child?
When a parent in Hawaii wishes to move away with their child, they must notify the other parent in writing, including details about the move and reasons for it. The noncustodial parent has 30 days to respond, either consenting or objecting. If there is an objection, the court will decide based on the child’s best interests, considering factors such as the child’s well-being and the impact of the move on the child’s relationship with both parents.
What is the process for modifying an existing child custody or support order?
Hawaii courts modify child support orders when a significant change in circumstances occurs or at least three years have passed since the last review. A party seeking modification may request it through the family court or the CSEA. The process involves submitting updated financial information, after which the CSEA reviews the case and may issue a proposed administrative order. If a party disagrees with the proposal, they can request an administrative hearing.
How does the state address cases involving allegations of child abuse or neglect?
The law requires certain professionals to report suspected abuse or neglect as mandated reporters. Upon receiving a report, Child Welfare Services assesses the child’s safety, which may involve home visits and interviews. Child welfare authorities temporarily place the child in foster care if they deem the home unsafe. The agency works with families through case planning, court hearings, and services to ensure the child’s safety and well-being, with regular reviews to monitor progress and determine permanent placement.
Get The Help Your ‘Ohana Deserves
Contact us today if you want to work with a law firm that has lawyers who dedicate their time to helping you resolve your problems with decency and compassion, and a lawyer who has written the book on divorce. We proudly serve families throughout Honolulu, Oahu and the surrounding areas.
We are only a phone call away. Call us at 808-379-3538 or email us to schedule your initial consultation today.