Legal Separation in Seattle: Understanding Your Options
Contrary to popular belief, Legal Separation is not the same as physical separation (when one spouse moves out). Legally separated spouses can still live under the same roof. This legal status, similar to a “Dissolution of Marriage” (commonly known as divorce), allows spouses to maintain benefits like medical insurance while requiring the same petition, summons, and paperwork. For a Legal Separation to be finalized, both spouses must agree on asset division, debts, parenting, and support. Unlike Divorce, which has a mandatory 90-day waiting period, a Legal Separation can be completed the same day if all parties agree.
Divorce impacts more than just the couple; it affects children, friends, extended family, employers, and neighbors in various ways.
Proactive Legal Guidance
The ideal time to consult a family law attorney is before your situation deteriorates. I can provide you with insights and advice, allowing you to make informed and thoughtful decisions about your next steps.
Legal Separation
Many people confuse Legal Separation with physical separation (when one spouse moves out). However, legally separated spouses can still live together. Legal Separation is a legal status akin to a “Dissolution of Marriage” (commonly known as divorce, see below).
Legal Separation is beneficial for spouses who wish to maintain benefits like medical insurance from their partner. It involves the same petition, summons, and paperwork as a Dissolution of Marriage. For a Legal Separation to be finalized, both spouses must agree on asset division, debts, parenting, support, etc. Unlike a Divorce, which has a mandatory 90-day waiting period, a Legal Separation can be completed on the same day if all parties agree.
Divorce and Dissolution of Marriage
Even the most amicable divorces can be emotionally and financially draining. As your divorce attorney, my goal is to guide you through the process while safeguarding your legal rights. I will negotiate terms such as:
Spousal Support:
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Monthly amount?
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Duration of payments?
Child Support:
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Monthly amount?
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Duration of payments?
Custody Arrangements:
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Weekly/Monthly schedules?
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Holiday schedules?
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Special occasions like graduations and birthdays?
Distribution of Physical Assets:
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Home, investment properties, cars, furnishings, collections, heirlooms, etc.
Distribution of Financial Assets:
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Retirement plans, healthcare savings accounts, investment portfolios, etc.
Parenting Plans & Child Custody Agreements
Life changes, and these changes can impact your child custody agreement (such as relocating to a new city). If your circumstances or those of your ex-spouse change, I can assist in renegotiating your arrangements.
Family Law Mediation
Mediation is a confidential process where I act as a neutral third party, helping both parties reach an agreement.