Legal Separation
In Washington State, married couples can file for a legal separation or they can file for a divorce (dissolution of marriage). The process for filing either for a legal separation or divorce is similar, but the legal ramifications are different. A person may choose to file for legal separation instead of divorce for many different reasons, such as religious beliefs, insurance entitlements, military benefits, immigration status, or simply because the spouses desire not to get
Mediation - Settlement Conferences
Most family law cases are resolved through mediation (also known as a settlement conference). This eliminates the need to go through a trial which is very costly and emotionally draining. Both Pierce County and King County require the parties to participate in mediation, before a trial even can take place. In mediation, the parties can resolve all issues to avoid trial. One of the biggest advantages to resolving a case though mediation is that the parties can address their u
Property Division
A part of the divorce process, the Court can allocate the property and liabilities (debts) of the parties. The Court will make this allocation based on what is “just and equitable,” after consideration of all the factors. All property and liabilities are considered community or separate. This distinction may have an impact on the division. The factors considered by the Court include but are not limited to: The nature and extent of the community property; The nature and extent
Spousal Maintenance
Spousal maintenance (also called alimony or spousal support) can be ordered when one spouse has a real need and the other spouse has the ability to pay. Spousal maintenance can be awarded as part of temporary relief, prior to trial or the finalization of your case. The Court will consider the following factors when considering whether to award maintenance: · Length of the marriage; · Education level of the parties; · Employment histories of the parties
Parenting Plan
In a divorce with minor children, both spouses need to consider the importance of creating a parenting plan. A parenting plan will determine how much time each spouse spends with the children. A parenting plan will also determine who has primary custody, where the children live, and where the children spend the holidays. The plan can set forth who is responsible for transportation and other major decisions. A parenting plan, once signed by the court, will determine how the pa
