The experience of a divorce is unique to each individual. Even within a couple, each spouse’s experience is separate and distinct. In general, divorce is an emotional and painful process with stress and conflict often prevalent. Even in the best of circumstances, divorce is hard. In the best case scenario of divorce, a couple will …
The Washington Post recently published an article about dating after divorce and discussing the question of whether it is better to be divorced or never married when dating as a 40-something. It is all a matter of perspective and opinion, but the article brings up some interesting points. Those who have been married before are not …
It’s that time of year again. Summer is over and school is back in session. It’s a mixed bag of emotions for parents, with excitement and hope about their children’s growth and transitions. Alongside all of the positive feelings, many parents also struggle with financial stress around school expenses. For divorced parents, it’s that much …
Defined: Annulment is a commonly used term for a court procedure that dissolves a marriage, treating it as though it never happened. In Washington State, a marriage annulment is called a “Declaration of Invalidity”. Such declarations are granted by the court under specific, special circumstances only. The ruling legally declares the marriage invalid from the …
There is a fair amount of social stigma attached to prenuptial agreements: Aren’t you expecting your marriage to last forever? Why are you preparing for your divorce? Does a prenup doom your marriage from the start? When saying “I do”, most all couples hope for a “happily ever after”. The truth is, more than half …
This Seattle Times article offers an opportunity to highlight the importance of having an independent understanding of basic financial concepts. Many Americans lack understanding about financial topics like mortgages, interest, and risk, and this article illustrates potential consequences when we lack this sort of knowledge. The article features a 56 year old Bellevue College teacher, who could be symbolic …
LGBT Family Law Dellino Law Group fervently supports marriage and relationship equality. Regardless of sexual or gender orientation, we believe in each family’s right to exceptional legal representation. LGBT family law is rapidly changing both federally and in Washington State. We are dedicated to remaining up-to-date and knowledgeable with the evolving nature of the law, …
It is a weekend to celebrate! Seattle’s LGBT Pride events seek to create unity, celebrate culture, and honor diversity. With big celebrations, there is often an abundance of alcohol. We wish you a joyous weekend but urge you to take precautions to keep yourself and those around you safe. Remember that a DUI is more than just a party …
As we enter Father’s Day weekend, it seems appropriate to highlight the topic of fathers’ rights in Washington State. Many people don’t realize that fathers are on equal ground with mothers in Washington State. Until a court determines otherwise, each parent has the same rights and responsibilities to their children. When Parenting Plans are determined, the …
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 …
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 …
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 …
