Preparing for divorce is a complex process. Spouses often have to devote weeks to gathering financial records and preparing for court or negotiations. The decisions that they make about property division and other financial matters can affect their lives for years to...
Proudly representing clients in family law and criminal defense matters since 1975.
Marital Property Division
How much does “sweat equity” matter in a divorce?
When people think about their contributions to their household during marriage, they probably think first about the funds they brought in. However, their contributions often go farther than that. The work they put into the household can be just as important as their...
3 kinds of conduct that could be considered dissipation of marital assets
Property division matters are often a source of anxiety and uncertainty for those preparing for divorce. Unless they already have clear arrangements with their spouses, they may be unsure of what may happen with marital resources and marital debts during a divorce. In...
What happens to debts in a divorce?
Divorce marks the end of a marriage and signifies a complex process of dividing assets and debts accumulated during the marriage. Understanding how debts are handled during a divorce is crucial in Washington State, as the state’s laws and guidelines play a significant...
Can a Washington divorce derail someone’s retirement plans?
It takes decades to properly save for retirement. Most people aim to have seven figures in savings, as they will need resources to pay for everything from groceries to housing. Married couples in Washington will often estimate what they need based on their combined...
If your spouse asks for a divorce, do they have to give the ring back?
You proposed to your spouse, giving them an engagement ring and asking them if they would marry you. They said yes and accepted the ring. It was an important transaction in your life, and potentially an expensive one, with the average engagement ring costing more than...
3 possible solutions for the marital home in a Washington divorce
The law in Washington treats assets and income acquired during a marriage as community property. Spouses generally have to share those resources if they divorce unless they have entered a contract making alternate arrangements or agree to an alternate approach outside...
Is your business considered marital or separate property?
Whether a business is considered marital or separate property can significantly impact its division during asset distribution in a divorce. However, the specific rules governing this classification can vary, depending on the circumstances surrounding the business’...
Can you and your spouse agree on the division of property?
Divorce is associated with conflicts due to the sensitivity of its aspects, including property division. This is one of the matters that can bring out a different side of people going through a divorce. However, this does not necessarily have to happen. Provided a...
Do you have to take your ex’s student loan debt?
For many Americans, student loan debt makes up a significant portion of their total debt load. It’s a major expense that many people take on, and this often happens right around the time that they get married. If a couple like this gets divorced, one thing that each...