Top 9 “Tough Topics” Couples Should Discuss Before Tying the Knot

Wedding season is well underway! Maybe you are in the throws of planning your own wedding, or maybe you are counting your blessings that you are not wedding planning as you sift through your friends’ registries and wedding websites. Maybe you are attending multiple weddings this summer and taking bets about which marriages will survive… …

What you Need to Know About Parenting Plans in Washington State

What is a parenting plan? Do you need one? When parents split up it becomes necessary to decide how much time the kids spend with Mom, how much time with Dad, where they go for breaks and holidays, who handles pick up after school, and a host of other decisions. A parenting plan is where …

Do I Need a Prenuptial Agreement?

If you are married, are thinking about getting married, or have been married and are divorced, a prenuptial agreement (“prenup”) may be something that has crossed your mind. Some people believe they don’t need a prenuptial agreement because “I don’t have anything.” Often people tell me that prenups are something that “rich people“ to get, …

The Importance of Communication Beyond the Text Message

It is not yet April and yet somehow I have reconnected in person with a handful of friends I have either not seen or spent meaningful time with in years. In every case, it was like no time had passed. I did not plan it that way so I can take no credit for good …

How To Be Kind To Yourself and Others

Many of us are feeling anxious, nervous, angry, and sad following this divisive and polarizing political climate. Emotions are running high and it is a difficult time. Please be kind to others and be kind to yourself. If you are not quite sure where to start, here are 10 simple tips. Learn to be kind …

Let’s Talk Protection Orders

What is a protection order? Is a protection order the same thing as a restraining order? Hey, what about a no contact order? How do I know if I can get a protection order and which one? What do I do if someone serves me with a protection order? Protection orders are the source of …

AS LEGALIZATION OF MARIJUANA GAINS NEW GROUND, KNOW HOW THE LAW MAY APPLY TO YOU

As of last week, residents of Alaska and Washington D.C. have joined the growing numbers of Americans who are enjoying legal recreational Marijuana. As legalization becomes more widespread, it is a good opportunity to remember how the law applies in Washington State. Since Marijuana was legalized in Washington State in 2012, there has been a …

CRIMINAL OFFENSES RELATED TO FIREARMS IN WASHINGTON STATE: LAWS & PENALTIES

The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees our right to bear arms. Washington State supports this right but with limitations. There are specific laws in place that impose restrictions and regulations on the possession, purchase, selling, or use of firearms and other weapons.These are some of the most common weapons-related offenses in Washington …

THE DANGERS AND CONSEQUENCES OF MALICIOUS HARASSMENT

Events over the past several weeks remind us how hatred can escalate into large scale violence and terrorism. Innocent taken, families left to grieve, communities shattered, we continue to see deep hatred and hostility lead to cruelty, aggression, and violence. We continue to witness horrific international and domestic acts of terror, both stemming from the most destructive …

IDENTITY THEFT RING GETS BUSTED IN SEATTLE: REDUCE THE RISK OF THIS HAPPENING TO YOU

Bellevue police reportedly uncovered evidence in a seemingly sophisticated identity-theft ring run from a home in Highland Park, and have arrested 5 people in connection to the crimes. The Seattle Times described that investigators first observed a stolen vehicle and then obtained search warrants, finding all kinds of suspicious content. They found stolen drivers licenses, credit cards, …

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY! STAY SAFE AND AVOID DUI CHARGES

Hooray for Independence Day! Many celebrations will commence this weekend, continuing through Wed, July 4 and likely into next weekend too! There will be many drivers on the road and droves of folks out enjoying their Independence Day festivities. Please take the necessary steps to keep yourself and those around you safe. Heavy traffic and anxious drivers …

TOP 10 DIVORCE PLANNING TIPS

No matter what the circumstances, divorce is complicated. Ending a partnership that you hoped would last forever is logistically challenging and emotionally painful. Following these tips will help you be better prepared and ultimately achieve a more optimal outcome in your divorce or separation. Please review our Top 10 Divorce Planning Tips: 1. Access your …