Family Law Lawyer Tacoma, WA

We don’t expect to have to ask Washington family law courts to intervene in our private family matters, but sometimes, it becomes unavoidable. Whether you have a contentious child custody dispute, wish to assert or contest a grandparents’ rights case, or need a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial decree drafted, the advice and guidance from an experienced Tacoma, WA, family law lawyer can be invaluable to helping soothe the troubled waters of your relationship.

At Robinson & Hadeed, our legal team is focused on supporting you, your desired family relationship, and your rights. We know that many family law cases are quite personal and sensitive, and we approach your needs with compassion blended with strong legal insight. Allow us to be your cool-headed advisor when tensions run high and vigorously advocate for your interests in court, in mediation, and in communications with the other party. Call today to discuss your matter with one of our attorneys.

What Does A Tacoma Family Law Lawyer Do?

Family law matters cover a lot of ground, typically matters that legally affect the structure of a family and its dynamic. Questions of marriage and divorce, child custody and support, alimony, a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, and grandparents’ rights all fall under a family law attorney’s sphere of practice.

Our firm tailors our advice to your family’s specific arrangements and needs. We prioritize stable relationships and advocate for the best arrangement for your peace and security. In matters involving minor children, we work with you to develop an approach that is in the best interests of the child, including demonstrating that you provide a nurturing and safe environment for them.

We keep abreast of changes in Washington law that could impact your case and use our deep knowledge of family law statutes to help resolve your legal matter effectively. We also look at recent judicial decisions and case law to help develop creative solutions to some of the complex problems that accompany a family law matter.

Family Law Cases Our Firm Handles

No matter what type of family law dispute you face, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you. We’re ready to assist with:

Divorce or separation, including annulment, if possible. We help you properly separate marital assets, determine spousal support, and advocate for your interests.
Post-judgment modifications and appeals. Sometimes, life changes after the initial judicial order, and you must modify a spousal support decree or child custody arrangement. We can build a case supporting your proposed change and present it to the judge.
Enforcement of court orders. We help ensure that court orders relating to support and other legal obligations are fulfilled per the judge’s order and that their decision is upheld, protecting your rights and your child’s welfare.
Child custody and visitation. We know that you desire ample time with your child, so we help gather evidence to support your preferred custody and visitation arrangements.

Legal Advocates Protecting Your Family

Family law disputes can be emotionally taxing, even under the best circumstances. We know this is a stressful time in your life, and we offer the support and legal guidance you need to make the right choices for yourself, your children, and your family. With the help of a Tacoma family law lawyer from Robinson & Hadeed, you can settle the family law matter and confidently move forward to a brighter future. Call us today for a free consultation.

How A Family Lawyer Can Help With Your Annulment

Our trusted Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that seeking an annulment can be a confusing and emotional process, as it involves legally declaring that your marriage was never valid from the start. Unlike a divorce, which ends a legal marriage, an annulment treats the marriage as though it never existed. There are specific criteria that must be met for an annulment to be granted, and a family lawyer can be essential in helping you navigate these legal requirements.

Whether your annulment is based on fraud, misrepresentation, or another qualifying factor, having legal support can provide clarity and peace of mind throughout the process. At Robinson & Hadeed, we understand the importance of getting through this process efficiently and respectfully, and we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. Attorney Shannon Hadeed frequently teaches other lawyers her strategies, so you know you can trust her.

Defining The Grounds For Annulment

One of the first steps in seeking an annulment is establishing that your marriage meets the legal grounds for being invalidated. Unlike a divorce, where irreconcilable differences might suffice, annulments require more specific reasons. These reasons can vary by state but often include issues like fraud, bigamy, incapacity to consent at the time of marriage, or force. If you’re uncertain whether your situation qualifies, a family lawyer can evaluate your case and determine whether you meet the legal grounds.

Annulment laws can be highly specific, and courts will look closely at the evidence you provide to justify your claim. For example, if fraud is the basis for your annulment, you’ll need to show that your spouse intentionally misled you about a critical fact that impacted your decision to marry. A family lawyer can help gather and present the necessary evidence to strengthen your case.

Handling Legal Procedures And Paperwork

The annulment process can involve a significant amount of paperwork and legal filings, much like a divorce. Working with a lawyer helps you manage these documents efficiently, making sure that everything is submitted accurately and on time. Courts often have strict timelines for annulment filings, and missing a deadline can complicate or even prevent the annulment from being granted.

Having an experienced Tacoma family law lawyer handle the legal procedures reduces the likelihood of errors that could delay your case. They will also represent your interests in court if needed, ensuring your side of the story is clearly communicated to the judge. At times, annulments can become contentious, particularly if one spouse is contesting the annulment, so having legal support on your side is essential.

Protecting Your Future

Going through an annulment can be a stressful and uncertain time, but having the right legal support can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. With a family lawyer by your side, you can move forward with confidence knowing that your legal rights are being protected. By providing clear guidance and managing the legal aspects of the annulment, we can help you focus on what matters most—moving on with your life.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we’re here to support you throughout the annulment process. Whether you’re unsure if your case qualifies for an annulment or need help managing the legal procedures, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. We have been recognized by Washington Super Lawyer and work hard for each case. Reach out to our family law lawyer in Tacoma today to discuss your situation and how we can help guide you through the annulment process.

How A Family Law Lawyer Can Help With Enforcing Court Orders

Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that when a court order is issued, whether it’s related to child custody, visitation, spousal support, or division of property, compliance is expected. Unfortunately, not all parties uphold their end of the agreement. If you’re facing difficulties in enforcing a court order, a family law lawyer can be instrumental in helping you achieve compliance. Retired attorney Jeffrey Robinson believes that negotiation and mediation can bring about the best resolutions, so work with our team to get there. There are many ways that we at Robinson & Hadeed can assist with enforcing court orders.

Assessing and Understanding the Court Order. We start by reviewing the specifics of your court order to understand its requirements. This includes analyzing any language in the order that might leave room for interpretation or has led to compliance issues. By thoroughly examining the court’s instructions, we can advise you on what steps to take next and ensure that you fully understand your rights and options.
Identifying Non-Compliance Issues. A family law lawyer in Tacoma can help pinpoint exactly where the order is being violated. For example, in custody and visitation cases, a former spouse might be withholding visits, failing to follow agreed schedules, or disregarding specified guidelines for child care. In financial cases, like spousal or child support, it may involve missed payments or partial payments. By clarifying these issues, we can build a strong case to present to the court or the other party, demonstrating the specific ways in which the order has not been honored.
Communicating with the Other Party. Sometimes, enforcement can be achieved through a formal or informal discussion. We can reach out to the non-compliant party directly on your behalf, clearly stating what needs to be done to meet the court order’s requirements. A well-structured, legally-backed communication can sometimes resolve the issue without having to go back to court. This approach can save time, expense, and minimize tension between all parties involved.
Filing a Motion for Enforcement. If informal attempts do not lead to compliance, we can file a motion for enforcement with the court. This motion formally brings the issue of non-compliance to the judge’s attention and requests that specific actions be taken to enforce the original order. This process requires thorough documentation, which we help you prepare to make the strongest case possible.
Seeking Contempt of Court Actions. In cases of severe or repeated non-compliance, we can pursue a contempt of court action. This option involves asking the court to hold the non-compliant party in contempt, which can result in fines, wage garnishment, or even jail time. Contempt proceedings are generally a last resort, but they can be highly effective when all other efforts to enforce the order have been unsuccessful.
Modifying the Original Court Order. In some cases, non-compliance stems from an order that is no longer feasible or reasonable due to changes in circumstances. If the other party is genuinely unable to comply, we can assist in seeking a modification to the original order. This ensures that the order reflects current conditions, potentially preventing future enforcement issues.
Collecting Unpaid Support Payments. If the issue involves unpaid spousal or child support, a family law lawyer can help with measures specifically designed to collect these payments. This might include wage garnishment, seizing tax refunds, or placing liens on property. By utilizing these legal options, we can help you secure the payments you’re entitled to receive.
Using Mediation Services. In some cases, we may recommend mediation before going through a formal enforcement action. Mediation provides a neutral setting where both parties can discuss the terms of the court order and any challenges in complying. With a lawyer to represent your interests, mediation can lead to a resolution that both parties accept, reducing the likelihood of future non-compliance.

Reach Out To Us Today

Enforcing a court order doesn’t have to be a struggle. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from assessing the situation to taking action that secures compliance. Attorney Shannon Hadeed has spent her career fiercely advocating for her clients. Contact our Tacoma family law lawyer to discuss your options and get the assistance you need to make sure your court order is upheld.

What To Ask Your Family Law Lawyer At Your First Meeting

Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that meeting with a family law lawyer for the first time can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what to ask. To make the most of the meeting, it’s important to prepare questions that help you understand the process, your options, and the lawyer’s approach. At Robinson & Hadeed, we encourage open communication so that you feel confident in your next steps. Come see why our peers have voted us “Super Lawyer” every year.

How Will You Approach My Case?

Understanding how the lawyer plans to handle your case gives you insight into their strategy and approach. Some cases require a more collaborative focus, while others may call for firm representation in court. You’ll want to know whether the lawyer has handled similar cases before and what outcomes they achieved. Discussing this up front helps set realistic expectations and builds trust.

What Is The Timeline For My Case?

It’s helpful to get an idea of how long the legal process may take. Although every case is different, a lawyer can provide a general timeframe based on their experience. This question also allows you to discuss factors that might speed up or delay the process, such as required documentation or court availability. Knowing the timeline can help you plan ahead and reduce potential stress.

What Are The Potential Costs Involved?

Legal fees can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s billing structure. Asking about costs upfront will clarify what you can expect. It’s important to know whether the lawyer charges an hourly rate, a flat fee, or a retainer, and if there are additional costs, such as filing fees or expert consultations. This conversation helps avoid surprises and allows you to budget appropriately.

How Will We Communicate Throughout The Process?

Our family law lawyer in Tacoma knows that good communication is essential in family law matters. Be sure to ask how frequently the lawyer will provide updates and the best way to reach them if you have questions. Some lawyers prefer email, while others may be more accessible by phone or through a client portal. Understanding this will help keep you informed and ensure you feel supported.

What Should I Do To Prepare?

A lawyer can advise you on how to prepare for the next steps, such as gathering financial documents, drafting a parenting plan, or keeping records of important events. Being proactive can make the process smoother and may even improve the outcome of your case. Your lawyer’s guidance here is invaluable as you start working toward a resolution.

We aim to provide clear answers and practical advice to help you feel prepared and supported from day one. Your first meeting with a family law lawyer is an important opportunity to ask questions, share your concerns, and begin building a solid plan for the future. If you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to help. Our firm has 54 years of family law experience. Let’s work together to find a path forward that works for you. Contact Robinson & Hadeed today to schedule a consultation with our family law lawyer in Tacoma and get the guidance you need for your family law case.