COMMITTED INTIMATE RELATIONSHIPS: UNDERSTANDING WHAT “LIVING TOGETHER” MEANS IN WASHINGTON STATE

In Washington State, “common law marriage” does not exist. However, Washington courts do recognize “committed intimate relationships.” These relationships were formerly known as “meretricious relationships” and exist when an unmarried couple lives together for a significant period of time. In Washington State, these relationships have property rights similar to those had by married couples. It …

UNDERAGE DRINKING LAWS IN WASHINGTON STATE: MINOR DUI AND MINOR IN POSSESSION

With Graduation festivities forthcoming, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the underage drinking Laws in Washington State. MINOR DUI What is a Minor DUI? Washington State has a zero-tolerance law for minors driving under the influence. Under the Washington State statute RCW 46.61.503, if you are under the age of 21 and either …

MALICIOUS MISCHIEF: UNDERSTANDING THE LAWS AND PENALTIES

What is Malicious Mischief? If you are accused of willfully and maliciously causing physical damage to someone else’s property in Washington State, you may be facing charges of the property crime Malicious Mischief. This can include graffiti, vandalism, or other modes of destruction. It may also include erasing records, information, or other computer-related files, or …

CHILD SUPPORT MODIFICATIONS IN WASHINGTON STATE

In Washington State, the law allows parents to petition for child support modification to accommodate changes in circumstances. The primary Washington State child support modification statute is RCW 26.09.170. A Washington State child support modification is the legal process by which an Order of Support is adjusted to reflect the current finances of both parents. It …

SEATTLE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO PARTNER WITH NEXTDOOR TO REDUCE CRIME

Seattle police are taking a tailor-made approach to crime reduction, as reported by King 5 News. The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is seeking to connect to Seattle communities on a micro level, with the aim of diminishing crime. This week, the Seattle Police Department revealed its Micro Community Policing Plans(MCPP). They have divided up Seattle into 55 communities, …

DEFERRED PROSECUTION – IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

Deferred Prosecution is one of the options for keeping a DUI off of your long-term record and avoiding penalties associated with a DUI or other misdemeanor conviction.  (Chapter 10.05 RCW)  If you are charged with a DUI in Washington State and diagnosed as alcohol or drug dependent in your mental health evaluation (or suffering from …

FORGERY 101: UNDERSTANDING THE LAWS AND PENALTIES OF FORGERY IN WASHINGTON STATE

Forgery allegations can be potentially life changing. Forgery is considered a felony in all 50 states and Washington is no exception. Immediate consequences may include jail or prison time, significant fines, probation, or restitution. A forgery conviction on your record may also impact your ability to obtain housing or employment! Given the significant, devastating consequences …

Parenting Plan Modifications

A final Parenting Plan is issued by the court when your divorce and child custody settlements are completed. The Parenting Plan may have been jointly agreed upon or may have been imposed by the court if you and your co-parent were unable to make an agreement. The Parenting Plan is intended to meet your child’s …

HIGHLIGHTED CASE SUMMARY: AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE IN DUI CASE YIELDS FAVORABLE RESULTS

Description:   Our client was charged with a DUI with a BAC of .20 and hit and run. Thorough investigation of the circumstances and evidence yielded evidentiary issues damaging the prosecution’s case. Negotiation with the prosecutor got the client a very favorable result in what once felt for client a desperate situation. Client avoided DUI conviction, jail …

WHAT IS DISORDERLY CONDUCT?

Disorderly Conduct Laws and Penalties: Disorderly Conduct is one of the most common offenses in the United States. In Washington State, Disorderly Conduct is a misdemeanor. In comparison to other crimes, many people don’t see it as a serious crime. However, this misdemeanor does carry a potential sentence of up to 90 days in jail …

FAMILY LAW: RELOCATION OF CHILDREN IN WASHINGTON STATE

Washington law has a specific process and statute that governs issues related to relocation with a child, including each party’s rights and responsibilities. This is also known as the Relocation Act (RCW 26.09.405-560). If you are considering relocating with your child or have received notification of a proposed relocation from the other parent of your …

APRIL IS ALCOHOL AWARENESS MONTH

April is Alcohol Awareness Month, which a good opportunity for reminders about the legal, health, and social problems that excessive drinking can contribute to. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (NCADD) has been sponsoring Alcohol Awareness Month since 1987 and seeks to boost public awareness about the significant impact that alcohol-related problems has …