Navigating Divorce in Marysville: Your Partner in Difficult Times

Divorce and family law issues are serious. They can also present some of life’s most overwhelming experiences, filled with emotional, financial, and legal challenges. From dividing money and assets to making heart-wrenching child custody decisions, the journey will present a series of emotional challenges impossible to plan for. 

If you’re living In Marysville and facing any of these issues, compassionate and skilled legal representation can make all the difference. Having experienced Marysville divorce attorneys by your side ensures that your rights are protected and your voice is heard throughout this critical time.

Much of the divorce process should be focused on expectation management. Whether you’re navigating an uncontested divorce or a complex, high-conflict case, our team is here to help you approach the situation from a realistic perspective. 

This information was prepared with that focus in mind. What you read on this page is an overview but when you’re ready to take the next step, contact one of our Washington divorce lawyers for a free consultation.

Divorce Law in Washington State

Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not need to prove wrongdoing to file for divorce. According to RCW 26.09.030, the only requirement is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” This approach allows couples to focus on resolving practical matters rather than assigning blame.

Property Division in Washington

Under Washington’s community property laws (RCW 26.16.030), all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered community property and are divided equitably. Courts take into account factors such as each spouse’s financial circumstances, what they contributed to the marriage, and their future needs. An experienced Marysville divorce attorney can help you navigate this process, ensuring your interests are protected, and your assets are fairly distributed. This is especially important if there are meaningful items you want to keep, like a prized family heirloom or a piece of jewelry.

The Court Process in Marysville and Snohomish County

Divorce cases in Marysville are handled by the Snohomish County Superior Court, located in Everett. This court oversees all family law matters, including divorce, child custody, and spousal support. For those unfamiliar with the legal system, the following resources are invaluable:

Snohomish County prioritizes alternative dispute resolution methods, including mediation, to help families resolve conflicts outside of the courtroom. Mediation can save time, reduce costs, and foster cooperation between parties, which is especially important when children are involved. The county also offers parenting plan workshops to guide parents through custody and visitation arrangements.

Family Law Services Beyond Divorce

Family law encompasses more than just divorce. Our Marysville family law lawyers assist with a variety of issues that impact your family’s well-being, including:

  • Parenting Plans: RCW 26.09.184 mandates detailed parenting plans that outline custody arrangements, visitation schedules, and decision-making authority.
  • Domestic Violence Protection Orders: Legal protections to ensure the safety and security of those affected by abuse.
  • Paternity Actions: Establishing legal parentage to secure child support and custody rights.

Each of these matters requires careful navigation to ensure your rights and interests are upheld. There are many more family law issues not covered on this page. If you have questions, we are ready to answer them.

Child Custody and Child Support in Washington

Child Custody

In Washington, child custody decisions are based on the child’s best interests (RCW 26.09.187). Courts evaluate factors such as the emotional bond between the child and each parent, the child’s adjustment to home and school, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs. Parenting plans are integral to custody arrangements, addressing visitation, holidays, and dispute resolution to minimize conflict.

Child Support

RCW 26.09.135

“Order or decree for child support—Compliance with RCW 26.23.050.

Every court order or decree establishing a child support obligation shall be entered in compliance with the provisions of RCW 26.23.05.”

Child support is calculated using Washington State’s child support guidelines (RCW 26.19). Factors include each parent’s income, custody and/or visitation arrangements, and the total number of children involved. Adjustments may be made for extraordinary expenses, such as medical care or educational costs. Our Marysville family law lawyers are dedicated to ensuring that child support agreements are fair and in the best interests of your children. If they’re not, a judge will make the final decision so we urge clients to always seek compromise instead of drawing figurative lines in the sand.

Spousal Support: Achieving Financial Balance

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is designed to provide financial stability to a lower-earning spouse after divorce. Courts consider several factors outlined in RCW 26.09.090, including:

  • The financial resources of the requesting spouse.
  • The length of the marriage.
  • The standard of living established during the marriage.
  • The age, health, and earning capacity of each spouse.

Types of spousal support include:

  1. Temporary Support: To cover expenses during the divorce proceedings.
  2. Rehabilitative Support: To help a spouse gain education or skills necessary for employment.
  3. Permanent Support: Reserved for long-term marriages where self-sufficiency is unlikely.

Our Marysville divorce attorneys work diligently to ensure that spousal support arrangements are equitable and reflective of your needs.

Comprehensive Legal Services

We provide a full range of family law services tailored to your unique circumstances:

  • Divorce and Legal Separation: Guiding clients through the complexities of dissolving a marriage or establishing a legal separation while addressing all legal, financial, and emotional aspects.
  • Child Custody and Parenting Plans: Developing thorough and detailed parenting plans that prioritize the best interests of your children and minimize future conflicts.
  • Child Support Calculations and Modifications: Ensuring child support agreements are fair and reflective of your child’s needs, with support for modifications as circumstances evolve.
  • Spousal Support: From determining eligibility to negotiating terms, we provide comprehensive guidance to secure equitable financial arrangements.
  • Property and Debt Division: Conducting a meticulous assessment of marital assets and liabilities to achieve a fair and equitable distribution.
  • Domestic Violence Protection Orders: Acting swiftly to secure legal protections for victims of abuse, ensuring immediate safety and long-term remedies.
  • Paternity Cases: Establishing legal parentage to secure child support and assert parental rights, with compassionate guidance throughout the process.
  • Post-Divorce Modifications: Adjusting custody, support, and other orders to reflect life’s changes and evolving circumstances.
  • Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: Offering effective solutions to resolve disputes amicably, saving time, stress, and costs.

Why Choose Our Firm for Family Law Matters in Marysville?

Choosing the right legal representation is vital to achieving a favorable outcome in your family law case. Here’s why our firm stands out:

  • Local Expertise: We understand the nuances of Snohomish County courts and family law cases.
  • Client-Centered Approach: We provide compassionate, personalized support tailored to your unique circumstances.
  • Proven Results: Our track record demonstrates a commitment to achieving successful outcomes for our clients.
  • Comprehensive Support: From initial consultations to courtroom representation, we are with you every step of the way.

Partnering with our Marysville divorce attorneys means choosing a team dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence.

Take the First Step Toward Resolution

Family law matters are deeply personal and often overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Our Marysville family law lawyers are here to guide you through every step of the process no matter what matter you currently face. Contact us today to schedule a cost-free consultation with one of our experienced divorce attorneys.

GET HELP, ADVICE, AND VALUABLE INFORMATION FROM A WASHINGTON FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY TODAY!

Give us a call, even if you’re unsure about what your future holds. One of our Washington State divorce attorneys would be happy to meet with you, listen to the circumstances of your case, and tell you honestly whether your situation is something you can handle yourself or whether you’re getting in over your head. A consultation can be extremely revealing; there could be issues you may have overlooked. If you don’t need us, we’ll tell you so. If you do need us, you’ll be glad you made the call.

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About Us

Our firm has been handling Washington State divorce and family law cases for over two decades now. And, we understand how every divorce affects our clients on the deepest and most personal level. Jason is passionate about his work, and he genuinely cares about his clients and the results that he achieves for them. All of the Washington State divorce attorneys that work at our firm are exceptional lawyers who pride themselves on being results oriented and cost effective.