Recent News

Can I Get a Divorce Without Destroying My Kids?

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Susan O’Toole | 6/1/2023
In previous posts, I have discussed aspects of Collaborative Divorce and Mediation as alternatives to the typical “messy” divorce we hear about from friends and see portrayed in the media. But as a spouse, sometimes your feelings of bitterness, rage, and even hate for your partner—all the emotions that may have led to your divorce—can… Read More

Can A Separate Bank Account Become Community Property?

Washington State Family Law Lawyer Anne B. Bennette | 5/19/2023
RCW 26.16.010 provides that separate property of a spouse is defined as “property and pecuniary rights owned by a spouse before marriage and that acquired by him or her afterwards by gift, bequest, devise, descent, or inheritance, with the rents, issues and profits thereof.” For example, an individual bank account opened prior to marriage is… Read More

Collaborative Divorce: Why Use a Child Specialist in the Process?

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Susan O’Toole | 4/25/2023
As discussed in previous blogs, the Collaborative Divorce process utilizes not only attorneys, but also various other types of professionals, depending on the needs of the parties and their case. Below is a brief discussion of the role of the Child Specialist in the Collaborative Law divorce process and why they might be included. Child… Read More

Will I get “Alimony” or Spousal Support Once I am Divorced?

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 4/13/2023
On top of all the stressors you’re experiencing during your divorce process, having to go from a two-income household to a one-income household can be hard on the wallet. If you have been a stay-at-home parent, foregoing your career to help raise your family, determining if you qualify for spousal support can be a key… Read More

The Difference Between a Psychological Evaluation and a DVIT Assessment

Washington State Family Law Lawyer Anne B. Bennette | 3/30/2023
When dealing with domestic violence issues, it is important to understand why a psychological evaluation is not helpful to determine (a) whether domestic violence occurred, (b) whether it is likely to continue, or (c) what treatment would be appropriate for the alleged perpetrator. Even though this concept has been memorialized in both the Domestic Violence… Read More

They Did What? With Who!? Social Media and my Divorce Case

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 3/8/2023
Some people may say “You are what you post” and during your divorce proceeding, this quote can become even more meaningful. In this day and age, you may be hard pressed to find an adult who is not active on some kind of social media site. Whether that be Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or a site… Read More