Washington State requires divorcing parents to file a parenting plan that establishes physical and legal custody of the children as well as a visitation schedule. When the court accepts the plan, the plan becomes an enforceable court order. Unfortunately, even the most carefully worked out parenting...
The courts can appoint legal guardians to act in the best interests of people who cannot handle their affairs on their own. Typically, guardianship is established to make a competent adult responsible for decisions on behalf of a minor, a senior citizen who is intellectually...
Child support payments are a serious responsibility. Failing to pay can subject a divorced parent to severe repercussions, including being held in contempt of court, fined, and even jailed. An award of child support and the corresponding obligation to pay creates a new and essential...
Taking a family dispute to court can be costly, painful, and profoundly uncomfortable. After all, court proceedings are public proceedings, unless there is a compelling reason for the court to seal the papers and restrict access to spectators. Thankfully, there are alternatives. Consider these six...
Custody and child support are, without question, the two most important issues for divorcing parents. Each partner wants their children to have the best lives possible and hope they and their former spouse can come to an agreement that gives their children everything they need. Washington...
Couples who have been together for years without getting married may approach the idea of marriage with an “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” attitude. That’s fine, but both partners in the arrangement should understand the legal ramifications of choosing to remain unmarried. Committed Intimate...
If your relationship has deteriorated to the point where you are sure you cannot remain married, divorce makes sense. But the common misconceptions about divorce lawyers may lead you astray at a time when you badly need a knowledgeable advocate. Do not let the myths...
In a perfect world, divorcing couples would come to a perfectly amicable agreement about child custody. In reality, partners often dig in over issues they thought they agreed on before their marriage failed. Understanding mistakes to avoid when dealing with a child custody case can...
The COVID-19 pandemic changed life as we know it. People were forced to stay at home while only essential workers were allowed to be out in the world. Not surprisingly, this was not the only thing that has changed in the past year and a...
When a marriage breaks and both partners admit that the union is unsalvageable, divorce is the next logical move. Even if you think you and your partner agree about dividing property, handling debts, and how you’ll raise your children together, consider why hiring a divorce...