Spousal support, also known as alimony, is not guaranteed and may be awarded in a divorce based on factors like the length of the marriage, the standard of living during the marriage, and each spouse’s financial situation. Learn more about spousal support.

A divorce attorney provides legal advice, protects your interests, and guides you through the divorce process from start to finish. They prepare and file all necessary legal documents, help secure temporary orders for financial support and parenting arrangements, and manage key issues such as property division, child custody, child support, and spousal support. Your attorney will also negotiate on your behalf, represent you in mediation, and advocate for you in court if litigation is necessary. At the conclusion of your case, they will draft and finalize settlement agreements or court orders to legally complete your divorce.

The first step is to consult with a family law attorney who can explain the process and give you a clearer understanding of your specific situation. This helps you gather the information you need to prepare, both legally and emotionally. It’s also wise to gather financial documents and consider your long-term goals before serving divorce papers (or having them served on you). Listen to McKinley Irvin’s Founder, Rita Herrera Irvin, on when you should meet with a divorce attorney.

In Washington State, parties are generally required to attempt at least one session of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), most often mediation. Many divorces are resolved through negotiated settlement with the help of the parties’ attorneys, and if a case is going to settle, it frequently does so at mediation or shortly thereafter. However, if the spouses cannot reach agreement on all issues, the remaining matters must be resolved in court, where a judge will decide the outcome.

Divorces and relocation cases involving child custody disputes can be complex and challenging. They often involve court-appointed professionals or investigators whose findings and opinions can significantly impact the outcome of the case. Once set in motion, the findings and orders entered by the court can be complicated to reverse or change in the future. Many of our attorneys are experienced in handling contested child custody matters and are committed to protecting parental rights.

We can handle divorces that involve unique challenges in identifying, valuing, and distributing community and separate property in countries outside the United States, as well as international treaties that govern child custody determinations, child support collection, and judgment enforcement. Learn more about international divorce.

Most divorce cases are resolved by agreement between the parties, but some are not. For high-conflict cases or cases that go to trial, it is critical for the law firm you hire to have experienced, proven divorce litigators.

The unique circumstances of each case frequently give rise to other laws that intersect with or impact a divorce case. Our attorneys routinely address issues during divorce that involve laws regarding taxes, real estate, retirement plans (ERISA), intellectual property rights, executive compensation, privately held businesses, military retirement and benefits, international treaties, criminal law, and wills and trusts.