Recent News

Are Old Restrictive Covenants (CC&Rs) Still Enforceable?

Washington State Litigation Lawyer Andrew M. McKenzie | 9/4/2024
Property owners sometimes assume they can do (or should be able to do) whatever they want with their land.  Of course, the world is not that simple; living in a civilized society involves an interconnectedness which necessarily means that some land uses are bound to affect those around us.  Stemming from that recognition are 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

Wills and Affidavits of Attesting Witnesses

The Lawyers at Beresford Booth | 8/30/2024
In the state of Washington, a Will must be “attested” by at least two competent witnesses. Those witnesses must sign their names to the Will or to an affidavit that complies with law and must do so while in the presence or the electronic presence of the testator (the person whose Will is involved) and… Read More

How to Keep Your Co-Parenting Communication Amicable

Washington State Divorce & Family Law Lawyer Mackenzie O. Bretz | 8/28/2024
Maintaining healthy communication can be challenging if you have recently moved out or have been separated from your ex-partner for years. However, effective co-parenting is likely a top priority if you have children.  Your focus should be on taking positive actions for the benefit of your child and not seeking vengeance against your ex-partner. It's… Read More

Estate Litigation – Avoid it With Careful Drafting

Washington State Business & Real Estate Lawyer William O. Kessler | 8/20/2024
In the recent Washington Court of Appeals case Henderson v. Schmoll, we see the significant cost of sloppy legal drafting. We also see the comparative ease of avoiding that cost. Edith Henderson signed her Will in 1982, leaving her home to her daughter, Jane. But that bequest contained a condition: when Jane sold the property,… Read More

Congratulations to our Best Lawyers in America® 2025!

The Lawyers at Beresford Booth | 8/14/2024
Please join us in celebrating Beresford Booth lawyers for their selection among The Best Lawyers in America® for 2025: David C. Tingstad William O. Kessler Dimitra S. Scott David C. Tingstad, Chair of the Business and Real Estate Group has been selected for a third time in Corporate Governance Law and Corporate Law; William O.… Read More