Family Lawyers in Mercer Island

Washington adoption involves consent rules, a court-supervised home study, and (for newborn adoptions) a state-specific revocation window. 48 hours after birth before mother can consent; revocation in limited circumstances.

Washington calls it spousal maintenance. Discretionary; ranges from short rehabilitative awards to long-term support in long marriages.

An annulment in Washington declares that a marriage was never legally valid — different from divorce, which ends a valid marriage. Grounds vary; common ones include Underage (under 17), prohibited degree of relationship, prior marriage. WA distinguishes void from voidable marriages..

Washington child-custody decisions are governed by the "best interests of the child" standard. Washington uses 'parenting plans' with a 'residential schedule' rather than custody. No formal joint-residential presumption.

Washington child emancipation generally requires age 16 or older, plus showing the minor can support themselves and emancipation is in their best interest.

Washington child-relocation requires court approval (or other parent's consent) for most moves that materially affect parenting time. 60 days written notice.

Washington calculates child support using the Income Shares model. Both parents' incomes are combined to estimate what they would have spent on the child as an intact family.

Washington unmarried couples have NO automatic rights to property, support, or inheritance — cohabitation agreements + careful estate planning are the only protection. "Common-law marriage" is rare + specific.

Washington collaborative divorce — both parties + attorneys agree NOT to litigate, instead use team approach with neutrals. If process fails, attorneys must withdraw, creating strong incentive to settle.

Washington does NOT recognize common-law marriage. Cohabitation alone — even for decades — does not create marriage rights here.

Washington family-court contempt enforces divorce decrees, child-support orders, and custody arrangements — civil contempt for compliance, criminal contempt for punishment. Jail time is real possibility for willful violators.

Washington is a pure no-fault state — divorce is granted on the basis of an irretrievable breakdown. No fault grounds are available.