Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that child support orders are designed to meet a child’s needs based on the circumstances at the time they’re created. But life changes—sometimes gradually, sometimes unexpectedly. When that happens, your current child support order might no longer make sense. If your income has dropped, your child’s needs have increased, or your custody schedule has changed, you may need to request a modification.

Courts do allow for child support to be adjusted, but there needs to be a valid reason backed by evidence. You can’t just ask for a change because the arrangement feels unfair—you need to show that something significant has shifted since the order was put in place. We have 54 years of family law experience and are ready to take your call.

Common Reasons To Modify Child Support

A change in income is one of the most common reasons for seeking a modification. If one of you has lost a job, taken a lower-paying position, or had a major reduction in hours, that can impact your ability to pay. On the other hand, if the parent receiving support starts earning significantly more or receives a financial windfall, the court might consider lowering the other parent’s payments.

Changes in custody arrangements can also lead to an adjustment. For example, if the child now spends more time with the paying parent than before, or if there’s a switch in primary custody, the child support order might need to be updated to reflect that.

Other valid reasons include a child developing new medical or educational needs, or a parent taking on additional responsibilities that weren’t present when the original order was issued. The court’s goal is to make sure the support amount still fits the situation today—not the one from years ago.

How To Start The Process

If you think a change is necessary, you’ll need to file a formal request with the court. This typically involves submitting a motion or petition for modification and including documentation that supports your request. That might include pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, or a revised parenting schedule.

It’s important not to rely on informal agreements. Even if both parents agree to a temporary change, such as reducing the payment for a few months, it won’t be legally binding unless the court approves it. Without that approval, the original order stays in effect—and unpaid support can still be collected, along with interest.

Be Ready For A Court Review

After you file for a modification, the court will schedule a hearing or review, so it is crucial to have a family lawyer by your side. Both sides will have a chance to present their arguments and provide evidence. The judge will look at the current income of both parents, the needs of the child, and how much time each parent spends with the child. Based on that information, they’ll decide whether to grant the change and what the new amount should be.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we work with parents who need help modifying their child support arrangements. Whether you’re seeking a change or responding to one, it’s important to take the right steps and be prepared. If you believe your current order no longer reflects your situation, contact us today. We are highly rated by clients on Avvo and are prepared to review your case. We’ll help you take action with a plan that supports your family’s needs.

Our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that courts generally try to keep siblings together after a divorce or separation. The assumption is that maintaining the sibling bond provides emotional stability during a time of change. But in some situations, a judge may decide that a split custody arrangement—where siblings live with different parents—is in their best interest. While this isn’t the norm, it does happen, and it’s helpful to understand when and why a court might make that decision. Our peers have voted us Super Lawyer every year, so see what we can offer you.

Situations Where Split Custody May Be Considered

Split custody is typically only considered when the court sees clear and compelling reasons to separate siblings. One common reason involves each child having a strong, individual bond with a different parent. For example, if one child is very close to the mother and the other has a stronger connection to the father, and both parents are equally fit, a court may feel it’s appropriate to place each child where they are most comfortable.

Another reason could involve the children’s own preferences, especially if they are older and mature enough to express their wishes. While a child’s preference doesn’t control the outcome, judges often consider it as part of a broader picture. If two siblings want different living arrangements and those choices seem reasonable and well thought out, the court may give those requests weight.

Courts may also consider split custody or modifications when the children have very different needs. For example, if one child has special educational or medical requirements that one parent is better equipped to handle, a judge may assign custody of that child to that parent. If the other child is thriving in a different school or environment that the other parent can provide, that too might support a split custody arrangement.

Conflict Between Siblings

In rare cases, a court may separate siblings due to ongoing conflict between them. If one sibling is abusive, aggressive, or severely disruptive toward the other, and efforts to resolve the situation haven’t worked, a judge may decide that living apart is necessary for their well-being. This is typically a last resort and usually requires documentation, such as evaluations from counselors or other professionals.

Practical Considerations

Split custody can create challenges, especially when it comes to scheduling and transportation. Judges look at the broader picture: how far apart the parents live, how cooperative they are with one another, and whether the arrangement will realistically serve the children’s day-to-day needs. The goal is to avoid disrupting school, social lives, or medical care. Courts don’t favor arrangements that are likely to create confusion or emotional strain.

Making Your Case In Court

If you’re involved in a custody dispute and believe that a split arrangement might work best—or if you’re opposing one—it’s important to be prepared. Judges rely on clear, well-supported information about the children’s needs, their preferences, the parents’ living situations, and any special circumstances. Family law cases are very fact-specific, and outcomes often depend on the details you’re able to present.

At Robinson & Hadeed, we help families sort through these issues with practical advice and strong representation. If you’re facing a custody case that involves more than one child and want to talk about the best approach for your situation, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We have 54 years of family law experience. We’re here to help you move forward with a plan that puts your children first.

Probate disputes are common, especially when large estates are involved. Our Port Orchard, WA high-asset inheritances lawyer knows that high-asset inheritances often lead to disagreements over how a deceased person’s property should be distributed. When significant wealth is at stake, emotions can run high, and family dynamics can become strained. Whether due to unclear instructions in a will, concerns over the validity of a document, or disagreements between heirs, probate disputes can be challenging. We pay close attention to detail and will assess the strengths and weaknesses of your case.

Causes Of Probate Disputes In High-Asset Estates

Probate disputes can arise from various factors, and in high-asset estates, the stakes are even higher. One of the most common causes of these disputes is a vague or ambiguous will. If a will doesn’t clearly outline the decedent’s intentions or fails to address all assets, it can create confusion and conflict among heirs. In cases where the language is unclear or open to interpretation, family members may disagree on what the deceased person intended. This can lead to legal battles over property distribution.

Additionally, disagreements can arise when beneficiaries believe that the distribution of assets is unfair or inequitable. For example, if one heir receives a much larger share than others, it can lead to accusations of favoritism or breaches of the decedent’s wishes. In high-asset estates, where businesses, real estate, and other valuable assets are often included, dividing these items fairly can be a difficult task. Our family lawyer knows that the complexity of distributing assets like a family business or valuable real estate often requires careful consideration, which can sometimes lead to disagreements between heirs.

Challenges With Complex Assets

One of the most difficult aspects of probate in high-asset estates is the presence of complex assets. These can include businesses, investment portfolios, intellectual property, and real estate. Valuing and dividing these assets can be challenging, and without a clear plan in place, it can lead to confusion and disputes. For example, if a family business is part of the estate, the heirs may disagree on how to fairly value it or whether it should be sold or passed on to future generations. Similarly, dividing investment portfolios or intellectual property assets can be complicated, requiring the expertise of professionals to determine their value.

In addition, some assets may be jointly owned or subject to specific contractual agreements, like a prenuptial agreement or a partnership agreement. These agreements may dictate how certain assets are to be handled, but if they are not carefully considered during the probate process, they can cause confusion and lead to disputes.

Family Dynamics And Their Impact On Probate

In high-asset estates, family dynamics can significantly impact probate disputes. Personal relationships and emotional issues often play a role in disagreements about inheritance. Siblings or other heirs may feel entitled to more than they were allocated or may argue that the will doesn’t reflect the decedent’s true wishes. These personal conflicts can lead to prolonged legal battles that only increase the emotional toll on everyone involved.

Additionally, in family businesses or estates with a large number of heirs, disagreements about who should manage or inherit the business or assets can lead to disputes. Family members may have different ideas about the future of the business or may be unwilling to work together, further complicating the probate process.

Resolving Probate Disputes In High-Asset Estates

If you are involved in a probate dispute, it’s important to seek professional legal guidance. In some cases, probate disputes can be resolved through mediation or negotiation, which can save time and money compared to a lengthy court battle. However, when that’s not possible, taking the matter to court may be necessary to protect your interests. Lawyers like those at Robinson & Hadeed can help represent clients in probate disputes and work to resolve conflicts in a way that is fair to all parties involved.

A good attorney can also help in situations where probate disputes arise due to unclear estate plans, helping to clarify ambiguous terms or make adjustments to the distribution plan. They can also assist in dealing with complex assets, from business valuations to real estate division, ensuring that each asset is appropriately handled and valued.

Get The Help You Need

If you are facing a probate dispute involving a high-asset estate, it is important to have the right legal support; you’re not just looking for an aggressive “pitbull lawyer”. Probate can be a long and complicated process, especially when there are substantial assets at stake. Working with an experienced attorney can help protect your interests and guide you through the process efficiently. At Robinson & Hadeed, we’re here to help resolve probate disputes and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. We are highly rated by clients on AVVO. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you.

Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that life changes, and sometimes those changes affect the financial support parents provide for their children. If you need to modify a child support order, it’s important to understand when and how adjustments can be made. Courts don’t grant modifications automatically—you have to request a change and provide valid reasons. Our team of family lawyers  is continuously voted Super Lawyers by our peers, so come see why.

Reasons To Modify Child Support

Child support modifications are typically based on significant changes in circumstances. Common reasons include:

• Income Changes. A substantial increase or decrease in income for either parent may warrant an adjustment. Job loss, promotions, or new employment can all be factors.
• Change in Custody or Parenting Time. If one parent takes on more responsibility for the child, support may need to be adjusted accordingly.
• Medical or Educational Expenses. Unexpected healthcare costs or new educational needs can justify modifying support.
• Change in Child’s Needs. As children grow, their financial needs shift. Increased costs for extracurricular activities, healthcare, or schooling may require a modification.
• Parent’s Life Circumstances. If a parent remarries, has another child, or experiences a major financial hardship, the court may consider these factors when reviewing a request.

The Process Of Requesting A Modification

To change a child support order, you need to file a request with the court. In most cases, you must show that the change in circumstances is substantial and ongoing. The process typically includes:

1. Filing a Petition. A formal request must be submitted to the appropriate court.
2. Providing Supporting Documents. Pay stubs, tax returns, medical bills, or other records may be needed to demonstrate why a change is necessary.
3. Court Review. A judge will evaluate whether the requested modification is justified.
4. Hearing (if necessary). If there is disagreement between parents, a court hearing may be scheduled to review evidence and determine if the order should be changed.

Temporary Vs. Permanent Modifications

Some modifications are temporary, while others result in permanent changes. A temporary modification may be granted for short-term hardships, such as medical recovery or unemployment. Permanent modifications apply when the change in circumstances is expected to last indefinitely.

What Happens If A Parent Disagrees?

If one parent contests the modification, the court will examine the situation and make a decision based on the child’s best interests. Both parents will have the opportunity to present evidence. If an agreement can’t be reached, a judge will issue a ruling.

Get Legal Help You Can Trust

We know that child custody and support cases can be difficult. Modifying a child support order isn’t automatic, and courts require solid justification before approving changes. If you believe an adjustment is necessary, it’s best to act quickly. At Robinson & Hadeed, we help parents take the right steps when requesting modifications, making sure all necessary documentation is in place. You can count on us because other attorneys send cases our way. If you have questions about child support changes, we’re here to help.

For parents who live apart from their children, maintaining a strong relationship can be challenging. Our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that virtual visitation provides an important way to stay involved in a child’s life, especially when in-person visits are limited by distance, work schedules, or other factors. Courts increasingly recognize the value of video calls, texting, and other digital communication as part of custody agreements. We have 54 years of family law experience and we know it is crucial to have a family law lawyer by your side.

What Is Virtual Visitation?

Virtual visitation refers to court-approved electronic communication between a parent and child. This can include video chats, phone calls, text messages, emails, and even online gaming sessions. While it doesn’t replace in-person parenting time, it serves as a useful supplement, allowing parents to stay connected even when they are not physically present.

How Courts Handle Virtual Visitation

Many states have laws that explicitly allow virtual visitation as part of custody arrangements. Even in states without specific laws on the subject, courts can order virtual visitation if it benefits the child. Judges typically consider factors such as the child’s age, the relationship between the parent and child, and whether virtual communication would serve the child’s best interests.

Virtual visitation is often included in custody agreements when one parent relocates. In some cases, it is also used when safety concerns prevent in-person visits. Courts may set schedules for video calls just like they would for physical custody exchanges, ensuring both parents have fair access to communication.

Benefits Of Virtual Visitation

One of the biggest advantages of virtual visitation is consistency. It allows parents to maintain daily or weekly check-ins, helping them stay engaged in their child’s life. Whether it’s helping with homework, reading a bedtime story, or simply catching up on the day, technology makes it easier to participate in everyday moments.

Virtual visitation is also flexible. Unlike traditional visits, which often require travel and coordination, a quick video call or text message can happen at almost any time. This can be especially useful for parents who travel frequently or have unpredictable work schedules.

For children, virtual visitation can reduce feelings of separation. Seeing a parent’s face and hearing their voice can provide comfort and reassurance, reinforcing their sense of stability and connection.

Challenges And Considerations

While virtual visitation is a valuable tool, it’s important to set guidelines to prevent conflicts. Parents should agree on communication times, the type of technology used, and how to handle disruptions. For example, if a child is busy with school or extracurricular activities, both parents should respect those commitments.

Technical issues can also be a problem. A poor internet connection or outdated devices can make video calls frustrating with virtual child custody. Parents should ensure they have reliable access to the necessary technology to make virtual visits smooth and enjoyable.

How We Can Help

At Robinson & Hadeed, we help parents create fair and workable custody agreements that include virtual visitation when appropriate. Whether you are requesting virtual visitation or facing challenges with an existing agreement, we can guide you through the process. Every year our peers have voted us Super Lawyer. Contact us today to discuss your situation and find a solution that keeps you connected with your child.