Experienced Family Law Attorneys in Everett, Washington
Helpful Family Law Information and Links
Here's good advice either if you're contemplating marriage, or wondering if there is an option to divorce:
"Making Marriage Work" - American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
Considering divorce or separation? Here are some things to consider before making the decision:
"Checklist: Deciding to Stay or Go"
"The do's and don'ts of getting divorced"
"Your 5-Minute Guide to Sudden Singlehood"
Need an overview of the divorce process in Washington State? This is a good resource for answers to "frequently asked questions":
"Washington Courts Family Law Handbook"
Wondering how to keep the financial costs of divorce to a minimum? This article provides fifteen very useful tips:
"Divorcing? Fifteen Costly Mistakes"
What will you receive or pay as support for your children if you divorce? The State of Washington prescribes the amount, using the "Washington State Child Support Schedule" and "Worksheets", which taking into account both parties' incomes and several other factors you'll see if you visit this website:
Washington State Division of Child Support
Where will your children reside in the event you separate or divorce? The State of Washington no longer awards "custody" of children in divorce proceedings; instead, parents use this state form to create a "Parenting Plan" which defines their child/children's "residential schedule", and allows for creative time sharing arrangements:
Blank Washington State Parenting Plan (PDF file*)
Worried about the impact of divorce on your children, or trying to help them cope through the process? The American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers has put together these useful articles full of valuable advice:
"Stepping Back from Anger: Protecting your Children from Divorce"
The local courts require that divorcing and separating parents complete a seminar focused on helping your children through this difficult time. Information on these seminars can be found here:
Parenting Seminar "For the Kids' Sake" (Snohomish County)
Parenting Seminar "What about the Children?" (King County)
The State of Washington no longer awards "custody" of children born to unmarried parents; instead, parents may create a "Parenting Plan" which defines a residential schedule, and addresses future decision making and means of resolving future disputes:
Blank Washington State Parenting Plan (PDF file)
Asset Division and Allocation:
There are many things to consider when examining a possible division of assets. When meeting with an attorney it is helpful to gather the materials listed in this article:
"When Filing for Divorce, Some Basic Paperwork Is Helpful for Your Attorney"
What's the value of your home or other property? See the detailed valuation information on these sites, compiled by the County to assess your real property taxes:
Snohomish County Assessor Parcel Information:
King County Assessor Parcel Information:
What's the value of your car, boat, or recreational vehicle? Check these pricing guides:
Kelly Blue Book - Vehicle Pricing Guide:
NADA - Vehicles, Recreational Vehicles, Watercraft, and Motorcycle Pricing Guides:
Wondering how divorce will impact your retirement accounts? This article answers this common question:
Obtain a free copy of your credit report . Not only is it important to ensure that no accounts have been opened without your knowledge, it is also a good way to make sure no accounts are overlooked and left unallocated at the conclusion of your dissolution.
Domestic Violence and Restraining Orders:
Are you the victim of physical or emotional abuse in your relationship? These resources are available to help you:
Snohomish County Center for Battered Women:
Domestic Abuse Women's Network (King County):
If you need an immediate protection or anti-harrassment order, the Family Law Facilitators office at the Courthouse provides free and immediate assistance:
Snohomish County Family Law Facilitator - Protection Order FAQs:
