Recent News

Common Divorce Myths Debunked

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Amanda N. Gamble | 12/5/2024
Divorce can be a complex and emotionally charged process. It is often an unpleasant subject. Unfortunately, many myths and misconceptions surround divorce, which often lead to more confusion and anxiety. Then you add in “googling” divorce to unleash a flood of information. While this information can appear to offer some relief, there are quite a… Read More

Post-Divorce Checklist

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 11/26/2024
Regardless of whether your divorce was lengthy and complicated or straightforward and swift, it's important to address all outstanding matters to finalize the process. Below, you'll find a list of requirements that may apply to you. Life Insurance Beneficiaries It’s a good idea to proactively update the beneficiaries on your life insurance, retirement plans, and… Read More

Divorcing in Washington State. The Basics

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Amanda N. Gamble | 10/31/2024
The place to begin is RCW 26.09 which governs the Dissolution Process in Washington. Each County also has its own set of rules you will need to review to successfully navigate the process. You or your spouse has decided to separate. Now what? The date of separation can become important. The “date of separation” is… Read More

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 10/25/2024
Family law attorneys are acutely aware of the cycle of violence and its detrimental impact on children and families. A significant part of our role is to amplify the voices of victims and to develop post-divorce solutions that prioritize their safety and that of their children. In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I want… Read More

Porter v. Porter: New Supreme Court Ruling in Family Law – What Does this Mean for You?

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 9/24/2024
In one of only two published family law cases for the Washington Supreme Court in 2024, the Court held that a party's post-dissolution promotion and salary increase could not be used to calculate the community portion of their retirement. (In re Marriage of Porter v Porter, No. 102355-3) In this case, the husband had a… Read More

How Spousal Support is Awarded. New Supreme Court Decision on “Need”

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Amanda N. Gamble | 9/3/2024
Spousal maintenance awards are governed by RCW 26.09.090. There are several factors set forth in the statute for a trial court to consider when determining the amount and duration of spousal maintenance to be awarded. The statute’s structure was created purposefully flexible, giving trial courts broad discretion when awarding maintenance. Spousal maintenance awards are not… Read More