Opinion ID: 2357769
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Williams's Request For Custody Modification

Text: On April 27, 2009, Williams filed a motion to modify the custody arrangement based on two distinct changed circumstances. She first argued that Barbee's guilty plea to a felony assault charge stemming from an act of domestic violence warranted a change in custody. Specifically citing AS 25.24.150(g) and (h), Williams contended that Barbee's plea proved that he had engaged in domestic violence, making him ineligible for a physical custody award unless he overcame the statutory presumption against custody. Williams added that co-parenting was no longer an option because Barbee was prohibited from having contact with Williams and because Williams did not feel comfortable or safe sharing custody with Barbee. Williams also argued for custody modification because she planned to move to Washington with her soon-to-be husband. She stated that it would be in De'Shawn's best interests to move with her. Williams allowed that De'Shawn had always lived in Alaska and had ties to Barbee's family in the state, but argued that because De'Shawn was only three years old, he would easily be able to adapt to a new environment. Barbee opposed Williams's motion, arguing that pleading guilty to a single act of domestic violence did not constitute a history of perpetrating domestic violence. Barbee stated that it would be mentally and emotionally devastating to De'Shawn to leave Barbee's extended family in Alaska. Barbee then asked for full legal and physical custody of De'Shawn.