Seattle LGBTQ Family Lawyer
Our firm represents lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) individuals and non-traditional families in all family-related legal matters. Whether you are preparing to start a family, have questions about legal recognition as a co-parent in Washington, or are preparing to bring your relationship to an end, we can help. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Seattle LGBT family lawyer and learn how we can protect your family’s rights.
Each Seattle LGBTQ family lawyer at our firm has the experience and insight to advise you effectively, and we are committed to providing every client with caring, compassionate representation. While certain aspects of family law are unique for LGBTQ individuals and couples in Washington, all families share the same need for clarity, respect, and strong advocacy. Our team ensures that every client receives informed guidance and confident direction for their next steps.
Our Family Law Services for LGBTQ Individuals and Non-Traditional Families in Seattle
Our family law services for LGBTQIA+ individuals, co-parents, and couples in Seattle include:
Parental Rights
In Washington, when a child is born to married parents (or parents in a registered domestic partnership), parentage is generally presumed for both spouses. However, in most other circumstances, no such presumption applies. When Washington’s presumption of parentage doesn’t apply, LGBTQ spouses and partners may need to take affirmative steps to establish their parental rights.
What this entails will depend on your situation. In many cases, unmarried LGBTQ co-parents can file a Voluntary Acknowledgment of Parentage (VAP) to establish parental rights. Because clearly and legally establishing parentage is essential, it’s important to work closely with an experienced Seattle LGBTQ family lawyer throughout this process.
Child Custody and Child Support
Along with helping LGBTQIA+ parents establish parentage, we assist with child custody and support matters. This includes developing parenting plans for separated or divorcing co-parents, handling modifications, enforcement, and addressing child-related financial concerns. While Washington has a standard child support schedule, applying it can be complex, and it may not fully cover unique non-traditional family arrangements. Our lawyers can explain what to expect and help you reach a fair resolution.
Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements give couples the ability to define expectations and protect their futures. Entering these agreements is about more than planning for divorce—they help couples clarify financial and personal goals. If you’re interested in a prenup or postnup, our LGBTQ family lawyers can guide you through your options and draft an agreement tailored to your long-term needs.
Committed Intimate Relationships
LGBTQIA+ partners who choose not to marry can still gain legal recognition of their relationship through Washington’s “committed intimate relationship” framework, which offers many of the same protections as marriage. Factors include the duration of your relationship, shared residence, commingled finances, and how you present yourselves as a couple. If you need to document or protect your rights in a committed intimate relationship, a Seattle LGBTQ family lawyer can help.
Divorce
We also represent LGBTQ spouses during the divorce process. From dividing marital property to addressing parenting and financial matters, our team works to minimize conflict and achieve a respectful outcome. Most divorcing spouses can resolve issues without going to court, and our attorneys always prioritize amicable, cost-effective solutions. You can also review our divorce overview page for additional information.
Additional Blog Resources
- Same-Sex Marriage in Washington
- DOMA Struck Down!
- Domestic Partnerships in Washington State
- Non-Traditional Families
- Can I File My Divorce in Washington?
- Paternity and Parentage
Schedule a Confidential Consultation with a Seattle LGBTQ Family Lawyer Today
If you would like to speak with a Seattle LGBTQ family lawyer about your family law or co-parenting matter, we invite you to get in touch. Call us at 206-784-3049 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation. We proudly serve all families, including non-traditional families and LGBTQIA+ parents, across the greater Seattle area.