An Opportunity For A Fresh Start For You And Your Family

Family law cases are a far cry from seeking advice on a business formation or fighting DUI charges. These usually involve complex issues that arise from close personal relationships. These cases pertain to your loved ones, meaning you will want to place your trust in an experienced and skilled family law advocate.

Our attorneys at Alliance Law Group, PS, in Tacoma understand that every family is different, and you may face a complicated situation. Our legal team has the experience and knowledge necessary to protect your legal rights, along with the compassion to recognize that these cases are stressful. We hope to impress upon you that, with the right representation, family law can be an opportunity and a fresh start.

Serving The Legal Needs Of Tacoma Families Since 1950

Though the name of our practice has changed over the years, our dedication to providing quality, personalized legal services in all areas of family law remains the same. Each of our clients deserves an honest, straightforward approach regarding such matters as:

• Divorce: The process of divorce is much more streamlined when you have dedicated lawyers to help you take control of your case. We can assist by explaining your rights and options regarding key aspects of a divorce case, including asset division, child custody, child support and spousal support. Our family law services include support for uncontested divorces and divorce proceedings requiring litigation.
• Asset division: Washington state is a community property jurisdiction, which means that all income and property acquired by spouses during the marriage belong to both parties. This marital estate must be divided “equitably,” but this does not necessarily mean an even split. There are many factors to consider to ensure fairness in asset division, so don’t worry that you’ll be cutting the family car in half.
• Spousal support: Spousal support is about leveling the playing field financially after a divorce. Your attorneys will fight for what is legally fair under Washington law.
• Shared parenting and child support: Like many states, Washington state has moved away from the his-and-hers approach to child custody and visitation. Shared parenting is the preferred child custody arrangement because it enables children to have loving, strong relationships with both parents. Still, one parent will have financial obligations regarding child support, which are determined by a statutory formula.

Washington state law encourages parties to agree on key aspects of a divorce case, and our lawyers are by your side at the negotiation table. If a fair resolution cannot be reached through divorce negotiations, however, our divorce lawyers will represent your interests in court. Along the way, it is our goal to help you see divorce as less of an ending and more of a beginning to a bright future.

Helping You With A Wide Range Of Family Law Concerns

Our family law attorneys at Alliance Law Group, PS, also offer legal representation regarding such issues as:

• Modifications of alimony and child support
• Changes to the shared parenting arrangement or relocation of a minor child
• Enforcement of spousal and child support
• Adoptions
• Paternity

Why is it important to have an attorney when going through a divorce?

While you aren’t legally required to be represented by an attorney, having a lawyer by your side can be invaluable. Here are some reasons why:

• Legal knowledge: Divorce law is intricate, and each case has unique aspects that can greatly affect the outcome. Our lawyers understand these laws and can help ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
• Paperwork and procedure: Filing for divorce involves a lot of paperwork, which can be overwhelming. If you file “pro se” (without a lawyer), a judge is going to expect the same level of accuracy as if a lawyer prepared the documents. Our attorneys can assist you in completing the necessary documents correctly and will manage all legal procedures, reducing stress and the potential for costly mistakes.
• Negotiation or court representation: Divorce often involves negotiating terms such as asset division, spousal support and more. Our lawyers can advocate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. If your divorce case goes to court, our attorneys will vigorously represent your interests and will present your case in the best possible light.

Finally, it’s valuable to work with an attorney because they bring objectivity to your case that you likely don’t have. After years spent compromising and/or fighting with your spouse, you may no longer have an accurate sense of what’s considered fair and reasonable. Your lawyer is a knowledgeable third party who doesn’t share any of your personal history. This is a perspective that most divorce clients need and benefit from.

How do I file for divorce in Washington, and how long does the process take?

To initiate a divorce in Washington, you must submit a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage to the appropriate county court. You or your spouse must be an official resident or stationed in Washington as a member of the military.

Once the petition is filed and served, there is a mandatory 90-day waiting period before the divorce can be finalized. However, the total time it takes to complete a divorce can vary greatly from several months to a few years, depending on factors like the complexity of your case and the resolution methods used (mediation, negotiation, litigation, etc.). While no timeline can be guaranteed, our attorneys strive to be as efficient as possible in helping you finalize your divorce.

How is child custody determined in a divorce?

In Washington, family law judges must make custody decisions in the best interests of the child. This includes considering the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ living situations, the child’s needs and the parents’ ability to provide a stable environment.

Parents are encouraged to work out a parenting plan together that outlines custody arrangements and visitation. If they cannot agree, the court will establish a plan based on the child’s best interests. As mentioned above, shared parenting is the preferred model in Washington, as children are often best served by maintaining an active relationship with both parents.

Our attorneys will work with you to negotiate a parenting plan with your soon-to-be co-parent. Negotiated agreements give both parties more control over the outcome. If your co-parent will not negotiate or an agreement cannot be reached, however, we are prepared to take your case before a judge.

Contact Us Today To Discuss Your Case

If you have questions about a Washington state family law matter, please contact Alliance Law Group, PS, to speak with an experienced attorney. We can schedule a consultation at our convenient University Place, Washington, offices to discuss your case and tell you more about our legal services. You can reach us by calling 253-300-2055 or by filling out our online contact form.