News Category: Blog Articles
Establishing a Residential Schedule in a Washington Parenting Plan
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
Contractors Must Provide Pre-Notice Disclosure Before Recording a Lien
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
How to Reach an Agreement in Divorce: Practical Steps for a Less Contentious Process
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
Modernizing an Existing Irrevocable Trust
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
Regaining Possession of Real Property – Unlawful Detainer or Ejectment?
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
Prenuptial vs. Postnuptial Agreements: What’s the Difference Between These Two Types of Agreements, and Which One is Right For Me?
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
Is There Anything My Neighborhood Can Do to Ban Short-Term Rentals?
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
Lasher Holzapfel Sperry & Ebberson Attorneys Recognized in 2025 Edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers® and Lawyers Acknowledged as “Best Lawyers” and “Ones to Watch”
7 November 2024 – Lasher Holzapfel Sperry & Ebberson has been recognized in the 2025 edition of Best Law Firms®, ranked by Best Lawyers®, regionally in 10 practice areas. Firms included in the 2025 Best Law Firms® list are recognized for professional excellence with persistently impressive ratings from clients and peers. To be considered for this
Navigating Divorce: The Importance of Financial and Appraisal Experts
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
2025 Washington Employment Law Update – Minimum Wage, Exempt Employees, and Noncompete Updates
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