When a relationship ends, deciding who keeps the family pet can become a major source of conflict. In Washington, pets are not treated the same way as children in custody disputes. Instead, the law views pets as property. Our Port Orchard, WA family lawyer knows that this approach can feel frustrating since many people see their pets as family members. If you are going through a divorce or separation, it is important to understand how Washington courts address these disputes and what steps you can take to protect your interests. Our group has 54 years of family law experience and is prepared to help you with your case.

Pets As Property

In Washington, pets are legally considered personal property. This means that disputes over pets are handled in the same way as disputes over cars, furniture, or other assets. The court does not weigh the “best interests” of the pet as it would for children. Instead, the focus is on who legally owns the pet and whether the animal is community property or separate property.

Community Property Considerations

Washington is a community property state. This means that most assets acquired during the marriage belong equally to both spouses. If a pet was adopted or purchased during the marriage, the court will likely treat the pet as community property. The judge may award the pet to one spouse while balancing the division of other property to make things fair.

Separate Property Issues

If one spouse brought the pet into the marriage or received the pet as a gift or inheritance, the court may treat the animal as separate property. In that case, the original owner may have a stronger claim to keep the pet. Documents such as adoption papers, veterinary records, and purchase receipts can help establish ownership.

Factors Courts May Consider

Even though Washington law classifies pets as property, judges may look at additional factors when deciding who should keep the animal. These can include:

• Who primarily cared for the pet (feeding, walking, vet visits)
• Who has the financial ability to cover ongoing pet expenses
• The living situation of each spouse, such as housing and work schedules
• Whether children are attached to the pet and which parent they primarily live with

While the law does not officially require judges to consider these factors, many judges recognize the importance of pets in families and may use this information to guide their decisions.

Agreements Between Spouses

In many cases, couples reach their own agreement about pet custody. Some choose to allow shared time with the pet, similar to a parenting schedule. Others agree that one spouse will keep the pet while the other receives different property in exchange. Creating a written agreement can help avoid future disputes and provide clarity.

Why Legal Help Matters

Disputes over pets can be emotional and difficult to resolve on your own. Having guidance from a family law attorney can help you present evidence of ownership and care, and work toward a fair outcome. Our team at Robinson & Hadeed can assist you in addressing these issues in a way that protects both your rights and your relationship with your pet. If you are facing a pet custody dispute in Washington, reach out to us today. We are known for teaching other lawyers our winning strategies, so reach out to us when you would like to learn more. We can review your situation, explain your options, and help you find a resolution that supports both your interests and your family’s well-being.

When you request spousal support, the court looks at many factors to determine what amount is fair. Our Tacoma, WA spousal support lawyer knows that the outcome often depends on the evidence you present. If you want to increase the chances of receiving more support, you should focus on gathering clear and reliable proof that reflects your financial needs and your spouse’s ability to pay. Many other attorneys send their cases to us, so know that we are ready to take on more challenging spousal support problems.

Financial Records

One of the most important types of evidence is your financial documentation. Courts want to see details of your current income, monthly expenses, and overall budget. Collect pay stubs, tax returns, utility bills, rent or mortgage statements, and any other regular costs that show your financial picture. The more organized and complete this information is, the easier it is for a judge to see your needs.

Standard Of Living During Marriage

The court also reviews the lifestyle you and your spouse maintained during your marriage. Evidence that shows vacations, dining, vehicles, memberships, and housing costs can be important. If you are now unable to maintain that standard of living without support, you should show documentation such as bank statements, credit card bills, and photographs that reflect how you lived during the marriage.

Your Spouse’s Income And Assets

To argue for more support, you may also need to show what your spouse earns and owns. This can include salary records, bonuses, business income, retirement accounts, investments, and property. If your spouse’s financial records are difficult to access, your attorney may request them through formal discovery. Demonstrating that your spouse has significant resources strengthens your case for higher support.

Work History And Ability To Work

If you paused or limited your career to care for children or support your spouse’s career, evidence of that sacrifice is useful. Collect records such as employment history, resumes, certifications, or professional licenses. These can show the gap between what you could be earning and your current position. This helps explain why additional support is necessary for you to maintain stability.

Health Considerations

Medical needs can play a major role in spousal support decisions. If you have ongoing health concerns that affect your ability to work or increase your expenses, you should provide medical records, prescriptions, and statements from healthcare providers. These documents show why you require more financial assistance.

Duration Of The Marriage

The length of the marriage often impacts how long support will be awarded. Longer marriages typically lead to longer or higher support orders. Collect documents such as marriage certificates and proof of years spent together. This is especially important if you gave up career opportunities during that time.

Other Supporting Evidence

You can also provide testimony from people who are familiar with your situation, such as former coworkers, family members, or financial advisors. Their statements can help confirm the sacrifices you made or the lifestyle you maintained during marriage.

Presenting strong evidence is the best way to argue for more spousal support. Our attorneys at Robinson & Hadeed can help you organize and present the right documents so your case is clear and persuasive. We have over 50 years of family law experience and can use that to fight for your rights. If you believe you need higher spousal support, reach out to us today. We can review your situation, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence.

If you’re considering adoption as a fictive kin, our Bremerton, WA family lawyer knows that you may have questions about what the process involves and how it differs from other types of adoption. Fictive kin refers to an adult who has a close relationship with a child but isn’t a blood relative. This often includes family friends, godparents, or long-time caregivers who have become like family. We have been in situations where many attorneys will send their cases to us because of what we bring to the table. Don’t miss out on what we can do for you.

Why Fictive Kin Adoption Matters

Children often feel safest when they can remain with someone they already know and trust. As a fictive kin, you may already have a strong bond with the child, making the transition less stressful. Courts generally recognize that maintaining continuity in a child’s life supports their emotional and physical well-being. Your relationship gives you a unique position to step in and provide a permanent home when the child’s biological parents are unable to do so.

Steps Involved In The Process

The adoption process begins with a petition filed in court. You’ll need to show that you meet the requirements under state law to adopt. This often includes background checks, home studies, and in some cases, proof of your established relationship with the child. While the process can involve multiple steps, having a family lawyer by your side makes it easier to know what paperwork you need and how to prepare for court hearings.

It’s also common for the court to review whether adoption is in the child’s best interest. They may consider the stability of your home, your ability to meet the child’s needs, and the strength of the bond you share. If the child is old enough, the court may also ask for their input.

Addressing Potential Challenges

In some cases, there may be legal issues related to parental rights. For example, the child’s biological parents may need to consent to the adoption, or the court may have to terminate their rights before you can move forward. These steps can feel difficult, but they are necessary to give you the full legal authority to raise the child as your own. Having legal guidance helps you understand what to expect and how to handle challenges if they come up.

Building A Stable Future

When you adopt as a fictive kin, you’re not only providing a safe home—you’re giving the child a sense of permanence and belonging. Adoption allows you to make medical decisions, enroll the child in school, and take on all the rights and responsibilities of a parent. At Robinson & Hadeed, we know how meaningful this step is, and we are committed to helping you through it with care and support. If you’re considering adopting a child as a fictive kin, reach out to our office today. We also serve Tacoma, Kitsap County, and Port Orchard. We’ll discuss your situation, explain the process clearly, and help you take the next steps toward creating a secure future for the child in your care.

Our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that working long hours doesn’t mean you can’t be a devoted and capable parent. If you’re going through a custody dispute and your work schedule is demanding, you may worry that it will affect your chances. Courts do consider how much time each parent can spend with the children, but they also recognize that many parents work full-time—and still provide a stable, loving home. If you’re facing this situation, there are steps you can take to strengthen your case and show the court that your children are your priority, even when your job keeps you busy. Our firm has 54 years of family law experience and is prepared to help your family.

Focus On The Quality Of Time, Not Just Quantity

Courts want to know that your children are safe, supported, and emotionally cared for. While time is important, it’s not the only factor. You can show the court that when you’re off work, you dedicate that time to your children—helping with school, attending appointments, preparing meals, or being present during bedtime routines.

Think about how you manage your time and how you plan to meet your children’s needs. We can help you highlight that in your custody request.

Have A Clear And Practical Parenting Plan

One of the best ways to present yourself as a reliable parent is to offer a thoughtful parenting plan. This shows the court that you’ve considered your schedule and found a way to balance your responsibilities.

For example, if you work long shifts during the week, you might ask for more parenting time on weekends or on your days off. You can also build in video calls, school event attendance, or morning routines if those fit your schedule. Courts appreciate a plan that is realistic and built around your children’s needs.

Line Up Childcare And Support

If your work keeps you away during certain hours, be ready to explain how your children will be cared for during those times. This might involve a trusted relative, a long-term babysitter, or a reputable daycare.

Courts want to know that your children will have consistent, reliable care when you’re working. Showing that you’ve already made these arrangements can work in your favor and help the judge see that your parenting is responsible and well thought out.

Be Proactive About Communication

Good communication with your children and your co-parent—if possible—also helps support your case. If you’re the parent who keeps everyone informed, manages appointments, and stays involved in decisions, make that part of your story. These actions show the court that you’re engaged in your children’s lives, regardless of your work hours.

Legal Support Can Make A Difference

Child custody cases are rarely simple, especially when you work demanding hours. That’s why it helps to work with a legal team that understands what the court is looking for and how to present your strengths clearly. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’ve worked with many parents in your position and helped them build strong custody cases. If you’re worried that your job might hurt your chances in a custody case, reach out to us today. Our lawyer often taches other lawyers her personal strategies, so know you are in good hands. We’ll help you develop a plan that shows the court just how committed you are to your children—no matter what your schedule looks like.

When a court orders spousal support, both of you are expected to follow the terms. Our compassionate Port Orchard, WA family lawyer knows that if your ex has stopped making payments or is paying inconsistently, it can quickly become frustrating and create financial stress. If you’re in this situation, there are steps you can take to protect your rights and take action. We have over 50 years of family law experience, so don’t hesitate to reach out to our office now.

Gather Your Records First

Start by collecting all relevant documents. You’ll want a copy of your spousal support order and a record of all payments made—or missed. This might include bank statements, payment apps, written communication, or any receipts. If your support is handled through the court or a state agency, they may have a payment history available, but it’s still helpful to keep your own records.

Reach Out If It’s Safe

Sometimes, a missed payment is the result of a temporary issue or simple oversight. If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, you might consider reaching out to your ex to ask about the missed support. This can sometimes resolve the issue without further steps. However, if there’s a history of conflict or the communication might cause stress or harm, it’s okay to skip this and go straight to legal action.

Ask The Court To Step In

If your ex won’t pay voluntarily and the situation doesn’t improve, you can file a motion with the court to enforce the order. This is usually done by filing a motion for contempt. A judge will review your case and determine whether your ex has violated the support order. If they have, the court can order them to pay the overdue amount and possibly apply other penalties.

Use Enforcement Tools Like Wage Garnishment

When a judge finds that support hasn’t been paid, there are tools available to help collect it. The court can order wage garnishment, meaning the support is taken directly from your ex’s paycheck. In some cases, they might also intercept tax refunds or place liens on property. These options are especially helpful if the support payments have stopped for a long time or your ex refuses to cooperate.

Work With A Lawyer To Get Help

Dealing with unpaid support on your own can be overwhelming. A family law attorney can help you file the right documents, represent you in court, and walk you through all the legal options available to recover the money you’re owed. The team at Robinson & Hadeed has helped many clients enforce spousal support orders and protect their financial stability. If your ex isn’t following the court order, don’t wait to take action. Spousal support is a legal obligation, and you have every right to receive what the court awarded you. When it comes to difficult cases, other attorneys send their cases to us! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward getting the support you deserve.