In Washington State, a Superior Court Fee Schedule Revision went into effect on July 24, 2015. This cost increases what was already a high cost of filing certain actions including divorce and separation. Substitute Senate Bill 5631, in part, increases the current surcharge on domestic cases (dissolution, legal separation, and declaration concerning the validity of […]
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Ten Signs it Might Be Time to Divorce
Categories: divorce, family law, king county, seattle, Uncategorized
Knowing when to divorce can be difficult, and it’s a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. So how do you know if you should proceed? How can you be sure that this time is really it? While there’s no magic answer for when to get a divorce, here are 10 signs it might be time to […]
Motion for Revision: A Tool in Family Law
Categories: commissioner, family law, judge, king county, revision, Uncategorized
In King County we have judges and commissioners. While they look the same and do similar things, they are not the same. Both wear black robes and both make important legal decisions. In family law cases, many decisions are made by commissioners on issues like child support and contempt charges for not complying with child […]
Drive Hammered, Get Nailed with a DUI
Categories: attorney, DUI, fourth of july, House Bill 2216, ignition interlock, king county, seattle, Uncategorized
As we celebrate our country’s day of independence many people are inspired to get on the water or drive to Lake Union in Seattle and watch the fireworks. Many enjoy a drink, or two… or three, and then drive home. Those people, and even those who haven’t had more than a drink or two run […]
Stars, Just Like Us: Ben & Jen–lesson in asset distribution
Categories: asset distribution, community property, divorce, Uncategorized
After announcing they made the “difficult decision” to separate and divorce after ten blissful years of marriage, Ben Afleck and Jennifer Garner face the unenviable task of dividing their assets, just like any other couple facing a divorce would… except they have a lot more things to split up and a more complicated asset distribution […]
Ben & Jen: Big Divorce, Possible Spousal Support
Categories: attorney, divorce, lawyer, seattle, spousal support, Uncategorized
Ben and Jen this week provide a good example of how time can be important. Passing the 10-year mark – which the couple did on Monday – can change how California judges award spousal support. And, the same approach to divorce and spousal support can hold true in other states as well. Now, in their […]
Had a Boating Accident? Report It!
Categories: boating, Uncategorized
Washington Law requires a boat operator or owner to do a Boating Accident Report when: There is damage of over $500; A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid; There is loss of life; or There is a disappearance of a person who was recreationally boating. Boating Accident Report forms are available from the Seattle […]
Parenting Evaluators: A Tool for Courts
Categories: Child Custody, divorce, parenting evaluator, Uncategorized
Going through a divorce is stressful for everyone. When children are involved, divorce or separation can get even more challenging. After all, it’s easy to “split” property or assets. Things get complicated when young lives are involved. In the end, we trust our judges to make sure that the “right” decision is made with regard to […]
Draeger Breath Test Presence Imminent, Impact TBD
Categories: breath test, Driving Under the Influence, DUI, DUI attorney, Uncategorized
In November the Washington State Patrol unveiled the Draeger Alcotest 9510 breath test machine. The Patrol received legislative approval in 2010 to switch to these machines, and has been working hard to make sure that the new instruments would fit into our state’s DUI program. The Patrol believes the instruments are ready to win the confidence of […]
Adoption Opportunities for Same Sex Couples in Washington
Categories: Child Custody, Uncategorized
Joint adoption laws permit same-sex couples to adopt a child together. By doing this, both prospective parents become a child’s legal parents. According to the Family Equality Council, adoption non-discrimination laws protect LGBT parents from discrimination by adoption agencies. Currently, 35 states and D.C. allow LGBT parents to petition for joint adoption including Oregon, Washington, […]