Litigation was once seen as the only option for couples facing divorce. However, today many Americans are choosing to file jointly in an uncontested process. If you and your spouse agree on how you want to divide assets and continue providing care and support for your...
Seattle Family Law Law Blog
What does a basic estate plan include?
If you own property and assets, you may wonder exactly what will happen to it all after you pass. Estate planning allows you to determine exactly where and to whom your estate transfers when you are gone. What is estate planning? A proper estate plan is legally...
Maintaining amicability after a divorce
Many people get divorced due to extramarital affairs, communication issues, conflicts over household responsibilities, or lack of compatibility. However, despite their problems, it is ideal if a divorced couple can remain amicable with each other after their...
5 reasons for updating your estate plan now
If you created your estate plan several years ago then put it out of your mind, you are not alone. In fact, you are part of the majority. However, changes happen in life. Here are five reasons you should make an appointment to update your estate plan. 1. Different...
Can a child choose which parent to live with in a divorce?
If you and your spouse are separating with the intention of filing for divorce, you likely have many questions about child custody arrangements. Your child may have expressed a strong preference for living with one parent or the other. Before you let hurt feelings...
Powers of attorney may be a good next step for your estate plan
Perhaps you created your last will and testament some years ago. Time passed, and you did not pursue other estate planning possibilities. Now that you are nearing retirement, you want to consider the next step. If so, this may be a good time to establish your durable...
What is behind the astonishing rise in later-in-life divorces?
Since the 1960s, divorce among older couples has skyrocketed. Researchers believe the number will triple by 2030. Although “gray” divorce is an accepted part of modern society, some find the trend baffling. What causes older, long-married couples to go their separate...
Including trusts in your Washington estate plan
Many Washington state residents use trusts as an estate planning tool. A trust is flexible and can take effect during life (living trust) or after death. Trusts shield assets from probate and offer tax advantages. A living trust takes place during the trustor’s life....
Child custody considerations in same-sex divorce
There is no question about it, divorce is stressful. With that said, it may be even more stressful depending on where you live and your family's situation. If, for example, you are an individual who is separating from a partner with whom you share children and are in...
3 key components your estate plan should have
When you die without an estate plan in place, you run the risk of your loved ones having to jump through hoops and work their way through the court system before they receive any part of your estate. Without an estate plan, you may also leave loved ones scrambling to...