In a Washington divorce, unvested Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are not always fully community property or fully separate property. Courts usually look at why the employer granted the award, then decide what part, if any, belongs to the marital community. Why did the...
Co-parents may disagree about child support amounts, payment schedules or who pays certain expenses. These disputes can create stress for parents and children. Mediation may help parents work toward an agreement without leaving every decision to a judge. How does...
Child support orders reflect what each parent can afford when a court first sets them. Income changes, job loss or shifts in parenting time can make those amounts outdated. Washington law allows a parent to request a change when conditions shift substantially. What...
If your child gets hurt or suddenly becomes very sick, you may have to make a medical choice right away. You might not have time to reach the other parent first. The situation gets more complicated if your parenting plan gives one parent more say over major health...
Washington follows community property rules. Most assets acquired during marriage are presumed to belong equally to both spouses. Under RCW 26.09.080, courts divide marital property in a just and equitable manner, which does not always mean an equal split. Proving...
Spousal support can be a major concern when a marriage ends. One spouse may worry about meeting everyday expenses while the other adjusts to a new financial situation. In Washington, courts consider several factors when deciding whether maintenance is appropriate and...
Grandparents often step in when parents face sudden crises like severe illness, drug addiction or jail time. Seeing a grandchild in an unsafe home naturally causes immediate worry about their safety and everyday well-being. Snohomish County courts do allow nonparents...
Mediation can help divorcing spouses work through disagreements without asking a judge to decide every issue. But before scheduling a session, many couples have one practical question: Who pays for the mediator? In Washington, the answer can depend on the type of...
Many people focus on who keeps the house or other property during a divorce. Debt also deserves careful attention. Credit card balances, loans and other debts can affect both spouses even after the divorce ends. Knowing how Washington divides debt makes preparing for...
Parents rely on child support to meet their children's essential needs. Missed payments can create significant stress and jeopardize a child's well-being. Fortunately, several enforcement tools exist to help ensure child support obligations are met in Washington....
