Insight, Analysis, and Perspective for Businesses and Individuals

If you find yourself involved in civil litigation of any kind, the case will take up a significant part of your life. While your attorney will take on the heavy lifting, he or she will require your help to gather the facts and evidence to support or defend your case. This article discusses “interrogatories”—a method […]

If you and your spouse are undergoing a divorce with children, there’s a good chance you are thinking about what kind of custody arrangement you will end up with. In Washington, we refer to these as “Residential Provisions” or more colloquially a “residential schedule.”  They are a mandatory part of every parenting plan. Certainly, this […]

Liens provide a means of recourse for contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers who have not been paid. In Washington, there are specific disclosure requirements that must be met before a licensed and registered contractor is able to record a valid mechanic’s lien for work performed on residential real property. It is imperative that both contractors and […]

Divorce is often an emotionally charged and challenging experience. Beyond the personal heartbreak that may be involved, the legal and financial aspects can feel overwhelming. One of the most difficult tasks in the divorce process is reaching an agreement on key issues such as asset division, a parenting plan (if you have minor children) and […]

Many savvy estate plans include the use of an irrevocable trust that was established many years ago.  However, the very nature of an irrevocable trust means that once the trust agreement is finalized, the terms of that trust cannot be amended or modified.  Over the years, tax laws have changed and, depending on when the […]

One of the greatest hurdles faced by landlords and property owners is regaining possession of real property in a timely manner.  Unlawful Detainer (also referred to as an eviction) and Ejectment are actions are used by landlords and property owners to recover the possession of real property. Choosing the type of action depends on the […]

It is becoming increasingly more common for modern couples, either before or during their marriage, to execute a written legal contract with the goal of protecting the separate interests of either partner in case of divorce, legal separation, or death. A prenuptial agreement or “prenup” is a legal contract that is signed before marriage. A […]

In 2014, long before the pandemic spurred the proliferation of short-term residential home rentals like those offered through Airbnb and other services, the Washington Supreme Court in Wilkinson v. Chiwawa Community Associations addressed whether a homeowners’ association (“HOA”) exceeded its power to amend covenants when a simple majority of the homeowners voted to prohibit short-term […]

Divorces are stressful and emotionally challenging. Amidst feelings of loss and uncertainty, there are practical matters that require careful attention, especially when it comes to financial assets. In addition to having a strong family law attorney on your side, you will likely need experienced financial and appraisal experts as well. Experts provide essential support during […]

Minimum Wage Beginning on January 1, 2025, the minimum wage in Washington will go up to $16.66 per hour, up 2.35% from 2024.  In addition to the statewide minimum, various cities and counties have a dizzying array of higher minimum wages based on differing standards. City or County 2025 Minimum Wage Notes Seattle $20.76 SeaTac […]

As of June 2024, the legal parameters of Washington noncompetition agreements were refined by the passing of Substitute Senate Bill 5935. The bill, which passed by the Legislature in February and was signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee in March, took effect on June 6, 2024. Amending five provisions of RCW 49.62, the new […]

“Nesting” is a custody arrangement where, rather than having children move between homes, the children stay in the family home and the parents move back and forth and alternate living there. While it may sound appealing, nesting can be challenging in practice. Here are some considerations for divorcing parents thinking about before agreeing or committing […]