Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLCEverett WA Family Law Firm | Nunn Vhan & Lang, P.L.L.C.2026-08-26T07:03:57Zhttps://www.nvllaw.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Can grandparents seek custody of a child in Washington?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484622026-08-26T07:03:57Z2026-08-26T07:03:57ZGrandparents 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 to ask for legal custody, but state law sets a very high bar.
Navigating Washington nonparental custody laws
Washington State strictly protects the legal rights of biological parents. Because courts assume fit parents make good choices for their kids, nonparents must show strong proof before a judge steps in. Winning a custody request requires showing that the biological parents cannot care for the child or that living with them causes real harm.Grandparents usually bring specific papers to show a judge that a child faces real danger:
Treatment notes or police records showing severe drug abuse or unchecked mental health issues
Official reports from Child Protective Services (CPS) detailing severe neglect
Hospital, police or school records showing domestic violence in the home
School or medical records proving the grandparent raises the child daily
Gathering these specific papers builds a clear record that can show unsafe home conditions to a judge. Working with a local family law attorney can help you understand how Snohomish County court rules apply to your family.
Filing a visitation petition under state statutes
Asking for visitation differs from asking for full custody. Under Washington state law, grandparents can ask a judge for visitation time if they already have a close, loving relationship with the child. Showing that cutting off this bond hurts the child allows relatives to secure visitation time even if a parent objects.
Securing long-term legal safety
Raising a grandchild without legal paperwork leaves the child at risk during everyday emergencies. Without legal custody, simple tasks become hard, like signing up for school, getting doctor care, or adding the child to health insurance. Getting official legal papers through the court changes a short-term setup into a safe, permanent plan. Having legal rights lets you make basic health and school choices so your grandchild gets a stable life.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Who pays for divorce mediation in Washington?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484592026-08-17T09:52:38Z2026-08-17T09:52:38ZHow mediation costs are handled
Washington does not require every divorcing couple to split private mediation costs in the same way. The spouses can agree on how to divide the mediator's fee. They might share the cost equally or use another arrangement that works for them. If they cannot agree, the court may determine how they should allocate the cost under applicable court rules.
County rules can also affect mediation costs. For example, some courts offer mediation services at a reduced or waived fee for certain parenting-related disputes. These options can make mediation more accessible to families with limited financial resources. The availability and terms depend on the court and the type of dispute. Understanding the available options can help spouses plan for mediation costs.
What can affect the amount you pay?
Private mediators set their own fees, so costs can vary. The length and complexity of the session can also affect the total expense. Some mediators charge by the hour, while others use different fee arrangements.
Before mediation, spouses should clarify:
The mediator's hourly rate or total fee
Whether both spouses pay an equal share
Whether the mediator requires a deposit before the session
Whether the local court offers reduced-cost mediation
Knowing these details can prevent disagreements about payment later.
Planning for mediation costs
Mediation costs form only one part of the financial picture in a divorce. Spouses should understand the fee arrangement before the process begins and confirm whether local court programs offer lower-cost options.
Washington gives divorcing couples flexibility in handling mediation expenses, but the final arrangement may depend on their agreement and local court rules. Checking those details early can help both spouses approach mediation with clearer expectations.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[What happens to community debt during a Washington divorce?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484572026-08-10T04:53:37Z2026-08-10T04:53:37ZWhat qualifies as community debt?
In Washington, spouses often create community debt when either spouse takes on financial obligations during the marriage. Common examples include credit card debt, car loans and medical expenses. Some obligations remain separate, such as debts that one spouse incurred before the marriage or under certain other circumstances.
Courts determine whether a debt belongs to the marital community before dividing debts. This first step helps shape the rest of the property division process. The next step focuses on equitable allocation.
How do courts divide community debt?
Although Washington is a community property state, courts divide property and debt in a manner that is just and equitable under the circumstances, which is not always an equal division. Under Washington law, courts seek a fair result by carefully examining the specific circumstances of each case.
Courts may consider:
The reason for the debt
The spouse who benefited from the debt
Each spouse's financial circumstances
The overall division of property and debts
These factors help courts reach a fair outcome that reflects each family's situation. Loan agreements can also affect financial responsibility after the divorce.
Why loan agreements still matter
A divorce order does not change the terms of a loan agreement. When both spouses sign for a loan or credit account, the lender may continue to hold both responsible until someone pays off, refinances or otherwise changes the account. This distinction is why many spouses choose to refinance or close joint accounts as part of the divorce process.
Community debt involves more than monthly payments. As debt allocation and loan responsibility can work differently than expected, understanding both sides of the equation early can help you plan for what comes after the divorce is finalized. If you have questions about your specific situation, consider speaking with a legal professional.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Understanding child support enforcement in Washington]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484552026-07-21T23:40:01Z2026-07-21T23:40:01ZParents 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. Learning more can help you respond effectively if payments stop or if you are having trouble making court-ordered payments.
How child support orders are enforced
Washington takes child support obligations seriously and uses the following methods to secure payment.
Wage withholding to collect support from a parent’s paycheck and send it to the receiving parent.
Bank account garnishment allows funds to be taken from financial accounts when payments fall behind.
Tax refund interception redirects federal or state refunds to cover unpaid support.
License suspension affects the paying parent's driving, occupational or recreational licenses until payments resume.
For serious or repeated nonpayment of child support, judges may issue contempt findings. Potential consequences include fines, make-up payment schedules or jail time in severe cases. The purpose of these tools is to encourage consistent compliance with support-related orders.
When the DCS becomes involved
The Division of Child Support can take action when payments stop or fall behind by issuing notices, creating payment plans or implementing administrative enforcement methods. Many parents find that DCS involvement may help resolve issues more quickly. However, legal representation is important when DCS becomes involved.Skilled guidance helps ensure the receiving parent understands DCS procedures. On the other side of the coin, it also helps a parent struggling to meet their obligations navigate and resolve enforcement actions as favorably as possible.Whether you are not receiving child support or are facing harsh enforcement actions, waiting too long to act can worsen matters for you and your child.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[5 records to bring to a child support mediation]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484532026-07-14T11:01:54Z2026-07-14T11:01:54Z1. Pay statements and tax returns
Bring current pay statements and federal tax returns from the previous two years. These documents help confirm how much you earn and which amounts may be subtracted from your income. Include proof of bonuses, commissions, self-employment earnings or other income that may not appear on a regular paycheck.
2. Work-related child care records
Collect invoices, receipts or payment histories for day care, after-school care or other work-related care. Washington treats these costs separately from the regular monthly payment. Parents generally divide them using the same percentages used for child support, so records can show what you pay and how often.
3. Health insurance and medical expenses
Bring documents showing the cost of health insurance for your child. Also gather receipts for copays, prescriptions, dental care and other expenses not covered by insurance.
4. Your parenting plan or residential schedule
Your current schedule can help both parents discuss where the child lives and how they handle recurring expenses. Parenting time does not automatically determine how much either parent pays, but the residential arrangement may be relevant.
5. Existing orders and payment records
Bring copies of current or previous support orders and a payment history. If the Washington Division of Child Support handles your case, include statements available through the agency.
Prepare for a focused discussion
A mediator helps you and the other parent discuss possible solutions but does not decide the support amount. Review your records before the session and ask whether the mediator requires anything else. Complete information can reduce unanswered questions and keep the discussion focused on your child’s needs.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Does a parent’s health play a role in child custody cases?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484492026-07-07T06:15:57Z2026-07-07T06:15:57ZYes, a parent's health can influence child custody decisions. The court looks at numerous factors when making a custody determination, and the mental and physical health of the parents is a key component. The parent's age may also be considered.Generally, this just relates to the type of care that the parent can provide for the child. When the court has to make a custody decision and issue an order, it will look out for the best interests of the child. The court is going to try to find a safe and healthy living situation.For instance, a parent who is dealing with a chronic illness that leaves them frequently hospitalized may not be the best fit to receive full custody of a young child. If a health emergency meant that the parent was unable to care for the child, it could put the child's own health in jeopardy.
Does this mean you cannot get custody rights?
No, it does not mean custody is impossible. The courts do often seek to keep both parents involved. But they also have to consider the realities of the situation.For instance, the court may be more likely to award joint custody in this type of situation. If one parent does become hospitalized and cannot care for the child for any amount of time, the other parent can step up and take on that role.Additionally, visitation could be ordered. If a parent has physical or mental health issues that mean they cannot care for the child on their own, they may still be allowed to see their child on a consistent schedule, maintaining their relationship and staying involved in their life—even if their ex technically has full custody.
Addressing custody decisions
Age and health are just two components that courts may consider when addressing child custody rights. While going through this process, it is very important for parents to know exactly what legal steps to take.
]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[3 tips for long-distance coparenting]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484462026-06-26T08:50:53Z2026-06-26T08:50:53ZParents sometimes don’t remain in the same area after they divorce. This means that one parent won’t be in the same area as their children, so they will have to determine how to make long-distance co-parenting work. While this isn’t always easy, it’s possible to find options that make the situation easier for everyone involved.
One of the most challenging aspects of long-distance co-parenting is trying to ensure that the children get to spend time with the distant parent to bridge the gap between in-person visits.
1: Virtual visits can encourage the parent-child relationship
In a long-distance co-parenting situation, being able to have the child spend equal time with both parents likely won’t happen. The children will usually have to wait until they spend a prolonged time with the distant parent. This could mean that the child goes months without seeing that parent in person. Virtual visitation is one option that parents and children can use to bridge the gap between those in-person visits.
2: Schedules should be based on the child
The schedule for when the parent and child will have their virtual visits should be set based on the child’s schedule, even if that means the other parent has to wake in the middle of the night to spend time with their child.
3: Parents must communicate often
Another important thing for parents to do is to communicate often. This is a chance for the distant parent to find out how the child is doing. These discussions should cover things like the child’s schooling and medical care. When you’re in the midst of a long-distance parenting relationship, the parenting plan is critical. This should include the parenting time schedule, as well as specific terms related to virtual visits. Ensuring the entire parenting plan accurately meets the child’s needs is crucial, so it may be beneficial to work with someone familiar with these matters.
]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Why would a long commute increase your divorce odds?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484442026-06-11T06:46:32Z2026-06-11T06:46:32ZStudies have found that your daily commute really could be connected to your odds of divorce. For instance, if you have a commute that is over 45 minutes, the odds that your marriage will end in divorce go up by roughly 40%.This does not mean that divorce is a guarantee. Many couples do learn to deal with a long commute, and their odds of divorce actually decrease if this is something they have had as a long-term arrangement. But technically speaking, if you or your spouse takes a new job with a long commute, the odds of divorce do rise.
A strain on your time
The issue is that a long commute puts additional strain on the time that you and your spouse have to spend together. If you are driving 45 minutes to work, you are spending an hour and a half on the road every day. Combined with the time that you are actually at work and on your lunch break, this means you have dedicated roughly 10 hours to your job.A lack of time together can certainly cause a couple's relationship to deteriorate. It can also be an issue if that couple has children. Say that one spouse stays home to watch the children while the other works long hours and has a long commute on top of that. The stay-at-home spouse may end up feeling like they are parenting alone, and it can cause a lot of stress in the relationship.
The legal side of a divorce
Do you believe that you and your spouse may be getting closer to a divorce? Have you been talking about it or considering filing this year? If so, it is very important to understand exactly what legal steps you will need to take and what options you have.
]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Do teen expenses change child support amounts in Washington?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484422026-06-03T15:30:13Z2026-06-03T15:30:13ZHow does Washington calculate child support?
Washington uses the Economic Table Schedule to set baseline child support amounts. The state looks at both parents' combined monthly income and the number of children who need support. This creates a basic support obligation, which both parents then split proportionally based on what they earn.
The standard calculation covers ordinary expenses like food, housing and clothing for children of all ages, including teenagers. However, certain extra or specialized expenses often require separate treatment by the court.
What additional expenses can modify support orders?
Washington law lets courts adjust child support amounts for certain extra expenses. These may include costs for education, activities and special needs. When your teenager plays sports, takes music lessons or enrolls in advanced courses, these expenses might justify a change. Healthcare costs beyond basic insurance also count as possible adjustments to the support amount.
When should you consider requesting a modification?
If your teenager's expenses have gone up since the original support order, you may have grounds for modification. To modify a child support order in a Washington court, you must generally show a substantial change in circumstances that was not anticipated when the original order was entered.
Common situations include private school enrollment, ongoing medical treatments or competitive sports programs. Gather documentation of these expenses before filing a modification request. Bank statements, receipts and invoices can help show the financial impact.
Supporting your child’s development
Your teen’s growing needs deserve proper financial consideration. The state recognizes that raising older children often requires more resources. By staying informed about modification options, you can work toward an arrangement that helps your teen thrive during these important years.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Dividing a jointly-owned business during a divorce]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484402026-05-29T02:34:48Z2026-05-29T02:34:48ZMany small businesses are jointly owned by married couples. Often, they will operate as business partners, each focusing on one area of the business’s growth and day-to-day operations. They both have an ownership share and they both contribute to the business’s increasing value.
This can make things complicated if that couple decides to get a divorce because the business is a marital asset. There are three options that can be used during property division.
Nothing changes
First of all, couples should always remember that they do not necessarily have to sell the business or change anything. They can still be business partners even after they get divorced. It typically just depends on whether they are on good terms or if it is a high-conflict divorce and they cannot work together after it concludes.
One person stays
When the former spouses no longer want to work together, a common solution is for one spouse to buy out the other person’s ownership. This allows them to become the sole owner and stay with the business. The main hurdle to doing this is simply coming up with the funds to purchase half of the business or surrendering other marital assets during property division.
Both people sell the company
Finally, if no other solution can be reached, many couples will just sell the business completely. Once a third party has purchased it, then all they have to do is divide the proceeds from the sale.Divorcing as business owners can be complicated, which is why it is so important to know exactly what options you have and what legal steps to take.]]>0