Divorce can be challenging in many respects, especially with custody decisions. The desire to avoid a prolonged fight is one factor that accounts for most child custody cases settling out of court. According to an article on EarthWeb, approximately 29% of child...
Family Law
4 family law issues where people may benefit from mediation
Mediation is a powerful tool for addressing family legal matters. It encourages productive communication and collaborative problem-solving. What are some other family law issues besides divorce where people may benefit from mediation in Washington state? 1. Children...
How can you keep your sanity during a contentious divorce?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that at 2.9%, the divorce rate in Washington is above the national average. Going through any type of divorce is not easy, but if it becomes contentious, the emotional toll can be overwhelming. Dealing with the...
Recognizing when it is time to file for divorce
The decision to divorce affects not only the couple involved but also the lives that surround them. While all marriages weather their share of storms, specific signs indicate it could be time to think about divorce. Marriage demands constant work, patience and...
Financial support after a Committed Intimate Relationship ends
Committed Intimate Relationships (CIR), also known as "meretricious relationships," have a unique status under Washington State law. These relationships, akin to a marriage but without a legal certificate, often raise questions about financial support when they end....
Do you have to return your wedding ring to your ex-spouse?
Going through a divorce can be a long and stressful process. After all, in addition to having to deal with the emotional consequences that naturally come with ending a marriage, you also must divide your marital estate. This means you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse...
Mediation can help you resolve these sensitive divorce issues
The mention of divorce is likely to dredge up many sensitive matters, but there is not always a need for contention when resolving divorce issues. Couples who mutually wish for an amicable outcome in their divorce can choose to settle things through mediation....
Can your ex get your inheritance? 3 things you must know
When couples divorce in Washington state, the court considers most of their assets community property and will divide them fairly. However, if you received an inheritance during your marriage, the court may regard these assets differently. Inheritances generally...
Understanding the importance of a parenting plan
Following a decision to pursue a divorce, you and your spouse must consider how you will co-parent your minor children. In addition to helping your children adjust to their new reality, you must agree to a parenting plan before the court can finalize your divorce....
Which co-parent must pay for private school?
Even though the Seattle area has some of the country's best public schools, there are dozens of excellent private academies in and around the city. These private schools are not exactly cheap, however. In fact, according to Private School Review, the average cost of...