There is nothing easy about a divorce, even when you believe it is for the best. On top of the practical concerns regarding assets, finances, and children, there are the emotions that come with the end of a relationship. It can all feel overwhelming.
You need an advocate who is tough enough to fight for your best interests, but also empathetic to the difficult road you are traveling. Our Bellevue divorce lawyers have the knowledge, skill, and experience to help you find your way to a better tomorrow.
At Dellino Family Law, our team has over 180 years of combined experience working to resolve difficult family conflicts. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and find out how our Bellevue family lawyers can help.
What Can Our Divorce Attorneys Do for You?
You know you need a lawyer for your divorce, but you may not be sure why. A skilled attorney who works with family law can help you manage many of your concerns going into a divorce and solve problems you may not have even expected.
Some of the ways our Bellevue divorce attorneys can help include:
Legal Advice and Guidance
We will explain your rights and help you understand the laws specific to divorce in Washington State. We will walk you through the legal process so you know what to expect before, during, and after legal proceedings, and we will prepare you for various outcomes.
Filing and Managing Paperwork
We will prepare and file your petition for divorce and all related documents, making sure they are accurate, complete, and submitted by the required deadlines.
We will respond to court orders and ensure you understand the process as it moves along.
Negotiations and Settlements
Through conflict resolution strategies such as negotiation or mediation, we may try to resolve issues outside of court. Solving problems like divisions of assets and child custody in an amicable way can save time, money, and stress by avoiding courtroom proceedings.
Child Custody and Support Issues
In cases where the other parent contests child custody, disputes support payments, or disagrees with parenting time, we can represent you in court and at hearings. The court will side with whatever is in the child’s best interest, and we will make sure your voice is heard.
Spousal Support
In Washington State, spousal maintenance is determined on a case-by-case basis. Washington Revised Code RCW 26.09.090 outlines the factors considered. We will help you determine whether you can expect to pay or receive support and negotiate payments.
Courtroom Representation
We will represent you in hearings and fight for your rights in cases of contested divorce or high-asset divorces. We will work to put together a case and make strong legal arguments to obtain a ruling that works in your favor.
Support
We want to offer you the support you need to understand and manage this complex time in your life. You can take advantage of our free webinars or get involved with our monthly divorce meetup group.
How to Prepare for Your Divorce
Our divorce lawyers in Bellevue are committed to helping you through your divorce and achieving the best possible outcome. However, there is no substitute for preparation. Some things to consider include:
Learn About the Divorce Process
Your lawyers will help you understand the divorce process in Washington State, but it also helps to do your own research on topics like property division, custody, and support.
We can answer any questions you have and clarify issues you are concerned about.
Hire a Divorce Attorney
A skilled family lawyer has the experience to guide you through this difficult time. It is especially important to consult with an attorney if there are children involved or if you have significant assets you need to protect.
Organize Financial Documents
Find, organize, and make copies of important documents. This includes:
- Documents that show your income, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or Social Security statements
- Proof of your assets, such as property deeds, and statements for bank accounts, retirement accounts, and investment accounts
- Proof of debts, like your mortgage, credit card balance, car loans, and personal loans
- Your monthly expenses, including things like utilities, childcare, groceries, and insurance
Start Budgeting
Plan for your income and expenses after separating from your spouse. Be prepared for your legal costs, moving expenses, and other financial obligations.
Open a separate bank account and, if necessary, begin researching how to change important accounts over to your name.
Protect Your Digital and Personal Information
Change passwords, create new email accounts, or back up important files. This is especially important in high-conflict divorces when you believe your former partner may act irrationally or illegally.
To start, you may wish to have a new email simply for divorce communications.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Divorce can be emotionally taxing, even when you know it is necessary, and even if you are prepared. Talk to close family and friends about how you are feeling, and consider seeing a therapist or participating in a support group.
Special Circumstance Divorces
All divorces require attention to detail and thorough consideration of all potential outcomes. However, some circumstances are particularly complex, including:
- High–asset divorces: These include divorces involving high-value personal or business assets or a high net worth.
- Divorce for IT professionals: IT and tech workers often have unique considerations due to their compensation arrangements
- High–conflict divorces: Divorces involving high-conflict personalities can be especially hard, particularly if there are children involved.
If you are involved in any of these situations, it is important to talk to your attorney about it and devise a plan.
Contact a Bellevue Divorce Attorney
Divorces are common in our society, but that does not mean they are easy, or that they do not take an emotional toll on everyone involved. You can get through this, but it is understandable if you could use a little help.
Our Bellevue divorce attorneys can help you resolve complex issues involving children, finances, homes, and assets. We know you need a lawyer to fight for your rights, but you also need support and understanding through a very challenging time.
At Dellino Family Law, we have been making a difference in the lives of families since 2013. Contact us today, and we can begin finding solutions to your problems.