Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLCEverett WA Family Law Firm | Nunn Vhan & Lang, P.L.L.C.2026-07-07T06:15:57Zhttps://www.nvllaw.com/feed/atom/WordPressOn 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.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[Considerations for communication in child custody situations]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484352026-05-15T02:41:55Z2026-05-15T02:41:55ZCommunication between co-parents is critical because of the coordination that’s necessary in child custody situations. You have to work out the details for parenting time schedules, school events, transportation, holidays and medical appointments. You’ll also have to discuss how to pay for various expenses related to the children.
Practical ways to improve communication
Good communication doesn’t mean that you and your ex have to agree on everything. Instead, it means that both of you listen and share your ideas without losing sight of what’s best for the children.
It’s not always easy to keep the focus on the children, but it’s a bit easier if you let go of the past. Unless there was abuse or neglect, it’s generally not necessary to bring up the past.
You and your ex need to find the most effective options for communication. This may be verbal, written or a combination of both. Phone calls, email, parenting apps and text messages are some popular choices. Setting the terms for this in the parenting plan is helpful.
The parenting plan should also include a variety of other points related to raising your children. The plan should be set based on what’s best for your children, so they’re customized. Having experienced legal guidance with this and other custody and support-related matters is beneficial.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[How to deal with persistent parenting plan violations]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484332026-05-05T18:22:06Z2026-05-05T18:22:06ZA parenting plan is meant to bring structure and predictability to your child’s life, but when one parent repeatedly ignores it, that stability quickly unravels. What starts as a minor issue can turn into a frustrating pattern that affects your time, your child’s routine and your peace of mind.
If you’re dealing with ongoing violations, you don’t have to sit back and hope the situation improves. After all, the law is on your side. What you need to do is respond in a way that strengthens your position if legal action becomes necessary.
Document every violation
Keep a detailed log of every violation, be it missed exchanges, late drop-offs or denied visitations. Save texts, emails and any communication that shows a pattern. Courts rely heavily on evidence, and well-kept records strengthen your position.
Don’t mirror your co-parent’s behavior
It’s tempting to even the score, but retaliating by withholding visitation or changing the schedule can undermine your position. In other words, there’ll be no difference between your actions and your co-parent’s, even if they started it. Judges expect you to comply with the parenting plan at all times. Staying consistent reinforces your credibility in court if the matter gets there.
Try to resolve the issue first
Sometimes, a direct but calm conversation with your co-parent can help resolve the ongoing issues. If that doesn’t work, mediation may be a practical next step. Demonstrating that you made a good-faith effort to fix the problem can reflect positively if things escalate.
Seek legal support
If the violations continue, the court can step in to reinforce the parenting plan. This happens when you formally ask the court to enforce the order or hold the other parent accountable for noncompliance. Depending on the circumstances, the court may award make-up parenting time, impose financial penalties, require compliance measures or even modify the existing parenting plan to better protect your child’s stability.This is where professional legal guidance comes in. Enforcing a parenting plan isn’t just about filing paperwork. You must also present a clear, well-supported case for a desirable outcome. Procedural missteps or insufficient evidence can weaken your position or lead to unnecessary delays.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[How mediation can help you during the divorce process]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484312026-04-18T19:33:48Z2026-04-18T19:33:48ZDivorce can be emotionally and financially demanding, especially when disagreements arise over important issues. Many couples look for ways to resolve matters without lengthy court proceedings.
Mediation during divorce offers a practical alternative that focuses on cooperation and understanding because it allows both parties to work together in a structured environment to reach fair and balanced agreements.
What mediation involves
Mediation is a process where a neutral third party helps guide discussions between separating partners. The goal is to support open communication and help both sides find common ground.Unlike court decisions, outcomes in mediation are created by the individuals involved, which ends up giving both parties more control over how their divorce is resolved.
Encouraging open communication
One of the main benefits of mediation is improved communication. The process creates a safe space where both individuals can express concerns and priorities.This approach reduces tension and prevents misunderstandings by building a foundation for respectful interaction, which is important if ongoing communication is required.
Reducing time and costs
Traditional divorce proceedings can take a long time and involve significant expenses. On the other hand, mediation is often faster because it focuses on resolving issues directly rather than going through multiple hearings.
Supporting better outcomes for families
Mediation is especially helpful when children are involved since it allows parents to create parenting plans that suit their family’s needs.Working together on decisions such as custody and schedules can reduce conflict and create a more stable environment for children.
Final thoughts
Mediation provides a balanced and cooperative way to handle divorce matters. It encourages understanding, reduces conflict, and supports fair outcomes for both parties.Seeking professional legal guidance can help you prepare for mediation and ensure that your agreements are clear, practical and aligned with your long-term interests.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[What happens if mediation fails in a Washington divorce?]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484292026-04-06T14:19:20Z2026-04-06T14:19:20ZMany Washington counties have local rules that require divorcing couples to try mediation or another form of Alternative Dispute Resolution before trial. These requirements depend on the county where you file the case. Mediation works well for many families, but not every session ends in agreement. When it does not, knowing what comes next can help. A failed mediation does not waste the process, and you still have control over the outcome.
What "failure" actually looks like
Mediation ends without agreement when the two sides cannot resolve one or more key issues, such as property division, a parenting plan or support. The session may end without a resolution if the parties reach an impasse or choose not to continue.In some cases, especially when the court orders mediation, the mediator must file a report or certificate confirming that the parties made a good faith effort. The mediator does not reveal what was discussed. The mediator does not decide who is right. Any unresolved issues move forward through the court system.
What you said in mediation stays protected
Confidentiality is one of the most important protections in divorce mediation. The Washington Uniform Mediation Act protects what parties say during mediation and generally prevents courts from using those statements as evidence.This means parties cannot present settlement offers, concessions or statements from mediation to a judge. This rule allows both sides to speak openly without worrying that someone will later use their words against them.Evidence that existed before mediation remains admissible. The protection covers only what the parties communicate during the mediation process.
How the case moves toward trial
Once mediation ends without a full agreement, the dispute resolution process has concluded and the case returns to the court's regular timeline. Your attorney will prepare for trial by gathering financial records, witness testimony and any expert reports needed to support your position. The judge will then hear evidence from both sides and decide the matters the parties could not resolve on their own. Even at this stage, settlement negotiations can continue. Many cases settle between the end of mediation and the start of trial.
Why mediation still has value even when it fails
A mediation that ends without a full agreement may still narrow the issues in dispute. If the parties resolve custody but not property, for example, the trial becomes shorter and less expensive because the judge only needs to decide what remains open. Mediation also gives both sides a clearer picture of the other party's priorities, which can inform trial preparation and future settlement discussions.]]>0On Behalf of Nunn Vhan & Lang, PLLC<![CDATA[3 essential benefits of divorce mediation]]>https://www.nvllaw.com/?p=484232026-03-30T07:46:57Z2026-03-30T07:39:32ZIt offers a tailored outcome
When you work with a mediator, they can stay neutral during your sessions and help you maintain reasonable discussions. Unlike a judge who makes decisions based on limited facts and state laws, your mediator can encourage honest communication that better addresses your needs and priorities.
By taking turns suggesting solutions, your mediator can help you reach a fair agreement that can settle your concerns about property division, spousal maintenance, child custody, child support and parenting schedules.
The sessions are confidential
Unlike court litigation, which is a public process, mediation is private. Because these meetings are only for you, your spouse, your mediator and your lawyers, you can keep your family matters confidential.
This approach not only helps to foster a safer space for discussions but also helps protect your children’s well-being and your reputation.
It is quicker and less expensive
Since your divorce will not involve formal hearings and unpredictable court timelines, you and your spouse can significantly lower your legal fees and court expenses.
By choosing mediation, you can save money while making the most out of your time. Focusing negotiations on your goals allows for better teamwork and a quicker completion of your written agreement.
Your divorce does not have to be messy
When you and your spouse are amicable in your breakup, you can find other ways to resolve your issues. This calm approach can protect your family’s privacy, offer a personalized outcome for your divorce and encourage a healthy co-parenting relationship for your children.]]>0