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
Child Support
Child custody and child support can be contentious aspects of a divorce with children. Parents should be concerned for the wellbeing and security of their children. This includes being able to provide for their basic needs. The Court will determine which parent should pay child support and will calculate how much the parent should pay. The amount of child support the parent will pay is determined by consideration of a few factors. The factors for consideration may include eac
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
Divorce: A Few Basics
The Petition: A divorce action is started by filing a Summons and Petition for divorce with the Court and serving copies on the other party (spouse). Filing a Petition requests that the Court dissolve the marriage, divide the property and debts, or additionally establish a parenting plan and support as necessary. This first step is necessary for the Court to grant you a divorce. Final Divorce Order (Dissolution Decree): The final divorce order is the final document granting a
