Probate is a legal process used by courts to distribute the assets of a person after death. Some people choose to take steps to avoid the probate process during estate planning. What are the benefits of avoiding probate? How probate works Probate courts usually handle...
If you and your husband or wife have a history of disagreeing, you may not be able to reach a divorce settlement that is acceptable to each of you. With a contested divorce, you ask a judge to weigh in on the division of marital assets, spousal support, child custody,...
Almost every time a Tacoma couple gets divorced, the exes establish separate residences. The children then shuffle back and forth between the parents' homes. This is the usual way shared child custody works in Washington. But for many divorced co-parents, the...
When spouses get a divorce, practically every aspect of their lives change. Your ex-spouse may have decided to move to a different state for employment opportunities, to be close to family, or because of remarriage. If they have sole custody of your children, this can...
What happens if an illness, accident or the effects of aging leave you unable to handle your own financial affairs or unable to tell your doctors what kind of treatments you do and don’t want? Though it may seem like a scenario that is far off in the future, it’s a...
Life goes on after your initial child custody arrangement is determined. A major life change, such as a new job opportunity, may lead you to move away from the Seattle-Tacoma area or from Washington entirely. In these situations, it is critical to understand...
Divorcing couples often feel “sticker shock” when they find out how much it can cost to end a marriage. These days, the cost of litigating a highly contested divorce involving children and property can easily reach six figures. This is one reason why many couples seek...
When people think about planning their estates, a will might be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it’s essential to be aware that there are other tools that can be used as part of a comprehensive estate plan. Sometimes known as an “inter vivos” trust, a...
Pets are beloved family members in many households. In the event of a divorce, custody issues concerning the family pet can be highly emotional and contentious. While pets are still legally classified as property in Washington State, courts are increasingly departing...
Washington State recently adopted new legislation that allows an individual to request “minor guardianship” rather than file for nonparental custody. This new law changes the court process by which an individual can apply for legal guardianship of a child, but doesn’t...