Many Washington residents working their way through divorces are unaware that the length of their marriage may make them eligible to collect Social Security retirement benefits using the earnings histories of their former spouses. Yet, this is an option for many...
Child custody matters are often filled with emotion. Each parent usually wants what is best for their children, but personal feelings also get in the way. When there is a battle for custody, the court has to make the decisions. That does not always result in the...
In a divorce, one of the biggest decisions is the division of assets and debt. Many couples struggle to come to an agreement outside of court. If you and your spouse cannot agree on all factors of the property division, then a judge will decide for you according to...
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....
For many reasons, a grandparent may have to step in and take over raising grandchildren. When this happens, it is not entirely on the grandparents to handle all aspects of care for the children. Washington law allows grandparents to seek child support from both...
Whether you just moved to Washington or you are thinking about moving out of the state, it could impact your child custody matters. When you file a custody case, you need to understand which court has jurisdiction or legal ability to make decisions in the case....
Given that your IRA may be crucial to your retirement, every cent will probably count when it comes to dividing the account with your spouse in your divorce. You should not lose more money than necessary from tapping into your IRA to satisfy a property division. It is...
It is not a given that you must have your divorce settled in a courtroom. A couple seeking to end a marriage may choose an alternative method of resolving their issues, such as arbitration. Arbitration is not the same as mediation. While mediation allows couples to...
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...
The state of Washington provides a number of ways to enforce child support payments, such as wage garnishment. If you fail to make your support payments, your co-parent could ask a judge to order your employer to garnish some of your paycheck. Being under a wage...
