Divorce is an emotionally charged process, and in many cases, it can be contentious. However, it does not have to be if the parties are committed to making it easier for everyone. Divorce, by its very nature, is likely to have unpleasant aspects. Know that your...
Mediation & Collaborative Divorce
Mediation: what not to do
Divorce mediation is a less contentious and cost-effective way of reaching agreements and solving problems. It allows the parties, with the help of a mediator, to work together and hopefully reach a mutually agreeable solution. What to do and what not to do However,...
Why every divorce needs a mediator
Divorce is often emotional and stressful. Mediation can provide a less adversarial way to get through this difficult time. In Washington state, mediation is not just recommended; it is sometimes required by law. According to RCW 26.09.015, courts may mandate mediation...
How can I mediate if my spouse or partner is unreasonable?
What should you do if your spouse or partner is making unreasonable demands? For example, what if your spouse demands 100% of all marital assets? Or what if they insist on more total child support and spousal maintenance (alimony) than your net income? Or they could...
How Can I Quickly Meet a Deadline for Mediation in a Family Law Case?
In most family law cases, at some point you will be required to schedule a mediation. The most common way this can happen is by a court order. For example, at the beginning of every family law case in King County, the Case Scheduling Order has a deadline for...
What’s the least expensive way to get a divorce?
The least expensive way to get a divorce is for both parties to come to an agreement on all of the issues, fill out the court forms, sign them, and file a joint petition for divorce. The court's filing fee is $314. After waiting 90 days, you can have a court...
What’s the fastest way to get a divorce?
The fastest way to get a divorce is for both people to come to an agreement on everything and file a divorce petition divorce and joinder (legal agreement stating you are both on the same page). Both parties must agree on assets, debts, and spousal maintenance. If you...
Are there any drawbacks to choosing mediation for a divorce?
Divorce is never an easy process, even when two spouses resolve to work together to end their marriage amicably. If you and your spouse want to avoid the cost and contention often associated with a traditional divorce, you may consider one of the many options...
Is mediation a good idea for my divorce?
When you think of divorce, you probably think of everything you’ve read in the news or seen in television shows and movies. You imagine couples dramatically fighting things out in court and airing out their personal grievances in a public space. Like many other...
Why should I choose collaborative divorce?
When most people think about divorce, they picture the dramatized battles shown on television or in movies. They expect extended, stressful court visits and fights with their spouse over assets. While some divorces might follow this pattern, not all of them do, and...