Family Law Blog

McKinley Irvin Blog

A little knowledge can go a long way to protect your assets and family relationships. Planning can save headaches and money, and can provide peace of mind. The articles and tips in this section of the McKinley Irvin website are intended to help you understand and prepare for some of the more common issues you’ll encounter in a divorce, child custody, or other family law matter.

Please be advised that family cases can be very complex. The information provided here should not be construed as legal advice in your case.

  • Managing Your Finances During Divorce

    Managing Your Finances During Divorce Divorce is a complex emotional and logistical process. Throughout the divorce process and after finalizing your divorce, it is crucial that you safeguard your financial health. Below, we discuss key steps to take control of your finances throughout the divorce process: Understanding Your Financial Situation To protect your future finances, you first need to know your current financial situation. Collect bank statements, credit card statements, investment records, pay stubs, tax returns, and mortgage statements. This ...
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  • Tips to Make Long-Distance Co-Parenting Work

    Tips to Make Long-Distance Co-Parenting Work A non-residential co-parent is a parent who lives apart from their child but maintains a significant role in their life. This arrangement can arise from various circumstances, including divorce, separation, or other life changes. While the physical distance between parent and child may differ, the parental role and responsibilities remain intact. A non-residential co-parent continues to play an active part in their child's life, making decisions about their upbringing and maintaining a strong emotional connection. ...
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  • Misconceptions About Asset Division in Washington State

    Misconceptions About Asset Division in Washington State Myths About Dividing Assets in Divorce Who gets the house? What happens to the family business? And who keeps the engagement ring ? These are just a few concerns when dividing assets in a divorce. This complex process can become even more complicated if either party has misconceptions about the divorce process and Washington laws. This blog will debunk common myths and offer you the truth. Whether you're considering divorce or in the midst of it, this blog aims to equip you with the knowledge you need to make informed ...
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  • Understanding Mediation & Arbitration in Family Law

    Understanding Mediation & Arbitration in Family Law Mediation, Arbitration, and Med-Arb in Family Law The dissolution of a marriage or the termination of a domestic partnership can be a complex and emotionally charged process. In navigating the legal intricacies of property division, child custody, and spousal support, many couples seek alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods to mitigate the stress and expense of traditional litigation. Mediation and arbitration are two prominent ADR options, with “med-arb” emerging as a hybrid approach. Mediation: A Collaborative ...
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  • Considerations When Selling Your Home After a Divorce

    Considerations When Selling Your Home After a Divorce The decision to sell a family home after a divorce is a significant one, often fraught with emotional and financial implications. Several factors may influence this choice. One common reason is to liquidate assets and divide the proceeds according to the terms of the divorce agreement. This approach can provide a clean break and help both parties move forward financially. Additionally, selling the home can avoid the ongoing costs and responsibilities of maintaining a property that no longer serves as a shared living space. ...
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  • Paying Child Support: Income Withholding

    Paying Child Support: Income Withholding Income Withholding for Child Support in Washington State Income withholding is a process where a portion of an individual's paycheck is automatically deducted to fulfill child support obligations. In Washington State, income withholding is generally mandatory unless specific circumstances, such as military service or certain types of disability, apply. This system ensures that child support payments are received regularly, helping to guarantee the financial stability of children and their custodial parents. It's a reliable ...
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  • How Co-Parents Can Divide the Holidays

    How Co-Parents Can Divide the Holidays The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. However, for co-parents, this festive time can also present unique challenges in navigating child custody schedules. Dividing holiday time effectively becomes crucial in ensuring children can experience the magic of the holidays with both parents while minimizing disruption and stress. In this blog, we will explore the importance of creating a balanced holiday parenting plan, addressing common hurdles co-parents face, and offering practical ...
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  • Gifts & Community Property Laws in WA

    Gifts & Community Property Laws in WA Divorce is a complex process, and the division of assets can be particularly worrisome, especially when it comes to sentimental items like gifts. In Washington, a community property state, understanding the rules surrounding gift ownership during divorce is important. Imagine receiving a cherished gift only to face the possibility of losing it due to marital dissolution. This blog aims to provide clear and straightforward information about how gifts are treated in Washington divorces. We'll break down the legalities, explain ...
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  • McKinley Irvin Ranked #2 in 2024 Washington’s Best Workplaces by PSBJ

    McKinley Irvin Ranked #2 in 2024 Washington’s Best Workplaces by PSBJ MI Ranks #2 in the Large Company Category Last night, the Puget Sound Business Journal announced rankings for Washington’s Best 100 Workplaces at a celebration at T-Mobile Park. McKinley Irvin ranked #2 on the list among other companies with 100-249 employees. This is the third consecutive year that McKinley Irvin has been recognized as one of Washington’s Best Workplaces, and our #2 ranking in the Large Company category for 2024 is our highest to date. About the Best Workplaces Ranking The Best Workplaces list is determined ...
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  • How a Criminal Record Affects Child Custody in Washington State

    How a Criminal Record Affects Child Custody in Washington State Criminal Convictions Can Affect Whether You Are Awarded Custody A criminal conviction can raise concerns during child custody disputes. However, the impact isn't uniform. Judges focus on the child's best interests, and the specific circumstances surrounding your conviction play a crucial role in their assessment. The Specifics Matter Yes, a criminal record or conviction can impact your case outcome, but the details matter. Some of the factors surrounding the conviction that will be considered include: Recency. Recent ...
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