Yakima Family Law Blog

Washington parents who divorce often become entangled in legal battles with their former spouses regarding various issues having to do with their children. Those who pay child support must adhere to the exact terms of their court orders; that goes for both parents, in fact. If a parent is, for some reason, unable to keep making payments, there are certain things he or she will want to remember in order to avoid legal trouble.

Only the court can change a child support agreement. However, if a parent needs to request a modification, the swiftest way may be to first discuss the issue with his or her ex. If he or she agrees to the proposed changes, then all that's left is to seek the court's approval.

Just as no two Washington marriages are exactly the same, neither are any two divorces. Your situation is unique to your own circumstances and personal history. Why you filed for divorce may not be as critical as the type of support you secure before heading to court. In a high asset divorce, trying to go it alone is typically not a good idea.  

You may be among those who simply wish to get through the process as swiftly as possible so you can move on in life and leave the past behind you. However, there may be various issues that could delay your settlement, including those pertaining to taxes, child custody or support, or business interests. In fact, you may be dealing with several of these issues simultaneously.  

Most people who are married or have been married in the past would agree that it can be a joyful, rewarding experience and challenging all at once. Sometimes, problems arise that can be overcome. Others situations lead to a complete relationship breakdown. When a spouse in Washington or elsewhere suspects that his or her other half is contemplating filing for divorce, it makes sense to prepare by researching state laws and having a plan in mind, just in case.  

A woman who is divorced herself and often writes about the topic developed a list of telltale signs she says may help concerned spouses recognize the possibility of an impending divorce. She says many spouses stop arguing and that can be a major sign that he or she has simply given up on idea that the marriage can be saved. Especially in situations where spouses tend to bicker a lot, if one spouse suddenly goes silent and stays that way for a long time, it may be because he or she is heading for divorce.  

If you're preparing to file for divorce in Washington anytime soon, there are several things you know regarding state laws that govern such issues. This state is one of only nine in the nation that continue to regulate property division proceedings in divorce through community property rules. This means that all marital property is divided 50/50 when you divorce. 

It's critical that you seek clarification of community property laws since this will impact your financial future once your divorce is finalized. Washington is also unique concerning divorce regulations because it doesn't allow modification of an existing property division court order. Although there may be rare circumstances where the court would allow you to change the terms of your agreement, you should be prepared for permanency regarding this aspect of your divorce.