Signature for divorce

Do I Need My Spouse’s Signature For A Divorce?

There is a common misconception that your spouse must agree to a divorce in order for it to proceed. While it certainly helps to have a spouse sign off on a divorce, in Washington you can still get divorced even if your spouse is uncooperative. That can happen in several different ways, depending on...
how to talk about divorce with your friends and family

How To Talk About Your Divorce with Friends and Family

It can be very hard to figure out how to talk about your divorce with the important people in your life. Breaking the news or ongoing conversations can have a very real effect on your relationships, depending on your approach. Some people may have an urge to shout it from the rooftops, while others...

Can I Get an Annulment in Washington State?

Annulments in Washington State Divorce and legal separation are the most common options that people choose for dissolving their marriages. However, there are situations where one or both spouses may decide to pursue an annulment, often for social or religious reasons. Unfortunately, annulments are...
Does My Divorce Information End Up in the Public Record - Man doing computer research

Is My Divorce Information in the Public Record?

People contemplating divorce often struggle with how and when it may become known to others. And while divorce obviously does not carry the stigma that it once did, there are many people who simply value their privacy. In addition, your divorce involves far more than your relationship status - it re...

Should I File My Divorce in Lincoln County?

After deciding to file for divorce, one of the subsequent decisions to be made is where you will file for divorce. As a general rule, you should file your divorce case in the county where you or your spouse reside, but Washington law allows spouses to pursue in any county they choose if both spouses...

At What Age Can My Child Decide Where To Live?

We regularly get asked at what age can a child decide which parent she or he will live with. I was asked this again just the other day. Frequently, the person asking is under the impression that a child can make their own decision after they turn 12; I am not sure where this persistent rumor comes f...
Olympia, WA - Does Washington State Have Common Law Marriage? - Seattle Divorce Services

Does Washington Have Common Law Marriage?

Many couples live together for a long time, accumulate property, and even have children, all without getting married. While this isn’t all that unusual, there are a number of misconceptions revolving around these situations and what it means when the couple separates. If you are unmarried but separa...

Breaking Down Supervised Visitation in Seattle

Visitation and custody issues are decided based on what is in the best interests of the child. In a contested case, the court will listen to the evidence presented and then enter a parenting plan that they believe will best meet the child’s needs, including their safety and general welfare. While su...
Man holding papers and deciding what to bring to a consultation with a family lawyer

What to Bring to a Consultation with a Seattle Family Lawyer

When facing a legal issue that will significantly impact you and your family, hiring a lawyer is a big step in the right direction. That said, it’s important to find the right lawyer for you - after all, family legal matters are usually very personal. Once you have chosen a potential attorney, you n...

5 Family Law Situations That Require the Help of a Lawyer

One of the most common questions people have is whether they should hire a lawyer to help them with a family issue they are facing. There are many great resources available on the internet to help you navigate these issues, but they often are only helpful in straightforward situations. In many situa...