When a marriage is over, divorcing couples must agree to the terms that will govern their post-divorce lives. These include property division, child custody and support, and alimony (spousal support). Some couples can work together amicably to come to terms on these issues, while others...
A broken marriage, child custody disputes, disagreements over interests in family businesses and/or accounts and fights over community property are all matters that require the assistance of an experienced family lawyer. Choosing the right lawyer to represent you can make the difference between an acceptable...
Going through a divorce can be a lonely and stressful time for any individual—especially when many different aspects are involved, including children, assets, and properties. It can be even more challenging to get a divorce without your spouse because it may require more steps to...
It’s hard to find the courage to defend yourself from an abuser, but never forget that you have rights and ways to protect yourself. For example, when it comes to your living situation, read on to learn why your abusive partner can’t kick you out...
When a marriage ends, couples face the daunting task of splitting up property. Some couples can come to an agreement about almost everything they need to divide, from their home to their cars and bank accounts. If there is a business or significant assets that...
Washington state provides a special legal status to devoted couples who form a household together: it is called a committed intimate relationship (CIR). Partners who have been together for several years continuously and can show their intent to form a marriage-like relationship may receive some,...
Tolstoy wrote, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” Many unhappy families eventually end up in court, but not all family law matters arise from disputes or unhappiness. Sometimes, what is necessary for families to carry on with...
When you get a divorce, one spouse will often make alimony payments to the other. The courts will order spousal support so that your ex-spouse can return to the lifestyle they had prior to your marriage. However, if you are looking to reduce your alimony...
Divorce can bring out the worst in people. Suddenly, someone who didn’t care much about material possessions insists on taking all the wedding silver, or an inexpensive souvenir of a long-past vacation becomes a dealbreaker for both partners when negotiating property division. Holding your emotions in...
Washington state courts emphasize the best interests of children when examining proposed divorce settlements and in determining child support. They will look at a couple’s combined gross income, remove allowable deductions, and arrive at an amount each parent should pay that the court deems fair...