Finding the right lawyer is a big step, and your first legal consultation is an important part of the process. This initial meeting allows you to understand your attorney’s approach and determine how they can assist with your case. Here is what to expect going...
Tolstoy wrote, “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” Many unhappy families eventually end up in court, but not all family law matters arise from disputes or unhappiness. Sometimes, what is necessary for families to carry on with...
Some couples resist discussing a prenuptial agreement because they think having one means they don’t trust each other. But the reverse is true: a prenuptial agreement demonstrates that you are committed to honoring each other’s past, future, and autonomy. Before we get into four reasons...
Washington State requires divorcing parents to file a parenting plan that establishes physical and legal custody of the children as well as a visitation schedule. When the court accepts the plan, the plan becomes an enforceable court order. Unfortunately, even the most carefully worked out parenting...
The courts can appoint legal guardians to act in the best interests of people who cannot handle their affairs on their own. Typically, guardianship is established to make a competent adult responsible for decisions on behalf of a minor, a senior citizen who is intellectually...
Taking a family dispute to court can be costly, painful, and profoundly uncomfortable. After all, court proceedings are public proceedings, unless there is a compelling reason for the court to seal the papers and restrict access to spectators. Thankfully, there are alternatives. Consider these six...
Washington State does not recognize common-law marriages. However, cohabitating couples in Washington have another option: proving they are in a “committed intimate relationship” (CIR). The legal rights of unmarried couples living together in a CIR are similar, but not identical, to the rights of legally...
All families are unique, which means family rights look a little different from household to household. In Washington state, unmarried couples have most of the same parenting rights as married couples. However, there are a few details that couples must plan for when establishing custody,...
Marriage is not for everyone. Sometimes, a couple does not feel the need to legalize their union through a ceremony. This could be for religious reasons or not wanting to spend a ton of money on a wedding. However, it is important to note that...
Some aspects of divorce will always be painful regardless of the legal route a couple chooses. However, some avenues can make the experience a little less heartbreaking. For example, former spouses can agree to a collaborative divorce if they are able to work together in...