Family Law Actions information and resources related to the Family Law practice.A Safety Plan For Protection From Domestic Violence Published by the Office of the Administrator for the Courts and the Washington Supreme Court Pattern Forms Committee, Olympia, Washington (June 1996) 1. Safety During an Explosive Incident If an argument seems unavoidable, try to have it in a room or area that has access to an […]
Annulment (Declaration of Invalidity) in Washington
There are two legal ways to end a marriage in the State of Washington. The first way, the Dissolution of Marriage (frequently called divorce), is the ending of a valid marriage through a process that restores the parties’ single status and gives them the ability to remarry. The second way, Declaration of Invalidity (frequently called […]
Attorney Fees
Family Law: Attorney Fees In family law actions (divorce, legal separation or declaration of invalidity), it is typical for the Court to address the issue of attorney fees. By statute, if one party has a need, and the other party has the ability to pay, the Court will order that party to pay a reasonable […]
Confirmation of Issues in King County Divorce
In King County, Washington, a case is governed by a Case Schedule, with critical dates starting with the date of filing and ending with the Trial Date. About 3 ½ months after filing, a Confirmation of Issues is due. This is an administrative document that tells the court if you are on schedule to meet […]
Divorce in Washington
Family Law: Divorce in Washington A dissolution, commonly called divorce, is a formal court proceeding that terminates the marital relationship in Washington. After the Divorce Decree is final, the parties are free to remarry. Either spouse may file for dissolution of marriage in Washington if he or she resides here. Washington is a “no-fault” state, […]
Domestic Violence
Family Law: Domestic Violence The ending of a relationship may be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life. The actions and reactions of the parties involved may precipitate angry feelings and it is sometimes necessary to obtain Court orders to protect against physical harm. The Court will issue orders where there is […]
Family Law Definitions
When you are considering a separation or dissolution, you hear a lot of confusing words you may not be familiar with. Below are some shorthand family law definitions for your use, not meant to be the final word on the law. Affidavit: Written testimony under oath – usually sworn to in front of a notary. […]
Grandparent Visitation
Family Law: Grandparent Visitation in Washington In 1973, the Washington State legislature authorized the rights of grandparents to petition the court for visitation with their grandchildren. In 2000 the US Supreme Court in Troxel v. Granville, ruled the statute unconstitutional. After the legislature amended the statute, in 2005 the Washington State Supreme Court in the […]
Grounds for Divorce
Family Law: Grounds for Divorce in Washington What are the grounds for divorce or dissolution of marriage in Washington? Washington is a no-fault divorce state. That means that you do not have to prove any specific grounds for a divorce. The only legal basis for a dissolution of marriage (divorce) in the State of Washington […]
Legal Separation
Family Law: Legal Separation in Washington A married party may initiate an action for legal separation in lieu of divorce in Washington. A legal separation allows the parties to remain married but ends the economic community, allowing each to retain his or her earnings and be solely responsible for his or her debts incurred after […]
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