Yakima Family Law Blog

When Washington spouses decide they no longer wish to maintain their relationships, they can seek a legally binding end to their marriage. Most people want to avoid lengthy court battles at all costs when they divorce. When it comes to child custody and related issues, spouses can devise the terms of their own co-parenting plans, and this helps keep legal expenses to a minimum.

Every family situation is unique; however, all divorcing parents must make certain decisions, such as where their children will live after their divorce is finalized. They can negotiate a plan and customize it as needed. For instance, some parents incorporate specific agreement terms regarding where children will spend major holidays and school vacation time.

Washington parents who divorce often encounter challenges regarding child-related issues, such as custody, financial support or other family matters. Those whose goal is to develop an amicable co-parent relationship may want to follow the example of numerous Hollywood celebrities who say the best interests of the child is what is most important. These former couples are willing to do whatever it takes to avoid conflict in their co-parenting plans.

Bruce Willis and Demi Moore have enjoyed an amicable co-parent relationship for years. Their daughter, who is now older, says she always appreciated the fact that she did not have to choose between parents for birthdays or other special occasions. Her parents were always willing to share special events as a family so she could be with both parents at the same time.

As 2019 gets underway, many Washington spouses will be among others across the country who file for divorce. This state is one of nine that uses community property division rules. It is critical that anyone headed to court first makes certain he or her understands what this actually means.

Most states use equitable division guidelines wherein judges overseeing divorce cases determine what they believe to be a fair distribution of marital assets. Community property rules, however, basically divide all marital property equally. A pre or postnuptial agreement, if applicable, may include changes to this approach. In most situations, property division rulings in Washington are permanent; in rare circumstances, such as evidence of fraud, modification may be sought though it is definitely not the norm.

Going through divorce is never easy, especially as a parent. As a noncustodial parent, numerous challenges may arise regarding visitation or a custody agreement, as well as child support payments. If co-parents disagree, the court will step in to resolve the issues at hand. In Washington and most other states, judges use set guidelines to help them make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

Concerning child support, parenting time is a key factor, as well as income. The more a parent knows about how to build a strong case ahead of time, the better. Most judges  consider percentage of parenting time and each parent's income as main factors that influence financial support decisions.