How A Family Lawyer Can Help Enforce Court Orders

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Going through a divorce or child custody case can take a lot of time and energy. When it finally ends with a court order, you expect both sides to follow the terms. But that doesn’t always happen. Our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows that if your ex is ignoring the agreement—whether it’s about child support, parenting time, or property division—you may need help making sure the order is followed. We have assisted clients with high asset divorces, complicated custody issues, litigation, and more.

This is where a family lawyer can step in. If you’re dealing with someone who refuses to follow a court order, you don’t have to handle it alone. You have legal options, and a lawyer can help you take the right steps to get the outcome you were promised.

Common Issues With Court Orders

After a divorce or custody case, there are usually several things the court puts in writing. These might include child support payments, visitation schedules, spousal support, or who gets certain assets. Each person is legally required to follow the order, but it’s not uncommon for one side to ignore or delay parts of it.

Some common examples include:

  • A parent refusing to drop off the child on time or denying scheduled visits
  • Missed child support or spousal support payment
  • A spouse refusing to turn over property awarded in the divorce
  • One party not following a restraining or protection order

If this sounds familiar, a family lawyer can help you take the issue or modifications back to court.

Legal Tools Available To Enforce Orders

When one party breaks a court order, a lawyer can file a motion to enforce it. This asks the court to step in and require the other person to comply. In some cases, the judge may give the other party a chance to explain. If they can’t give a valid reason, the court can take action.

For example, the judge can:

  • Order back payments or overdue support
  • Award you extra time with your child if visits were denied
  • Find the other party in contempt of court, which could include fines or even jail time
  • Order reimbursement for legal fees

Sometimes, a lawyer may start with a letter or formal notice to encourage cooperation before going back to court. If that doesn’t work, court enforcement becomes the next step.

Why Legal Help Makes A Difference

Trying to enforce a court order on your own can be frustrating. You might not be sure what steps to take, what paperwork to file, or how to present your case to a judge. A lawyer knows what the court expects and how to build a strong argument for enforcement.

They’ll review your order, gather supporting evidence, and represent you in court if needed. If there’s a pattern of violations or intentional disobedience, they can help bring that to the court’s attention.

Attorneys like those at Robinson & Hadeed know how important it is for court orders to be followed. After all, these orders are often put in place to protect children, provide financial support, or bring fairness to both sides. When someone refuses to follow them, the legal system offers ways to correct that.

If you’re dealing with someone who won’t follow the terms of your court order, talk to a family law attorney about your options. Don’t wait too long—getting legal support early can help you take the right steps and protect your rights. With 54 years of family law experience, we can help you with your family law problems. Call today to schedule a consultation and find out how to move forward.

Fighting Over The House During Divorce

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When a marriage ends, one of the biggest points of conflict is often the family home. It’s not just a financial asset—it’s where you built your life, raised your kids, and created memories. So it’s no surprise that you and your spouse may both want to keep it. Our Tacoma, WA divorce lawyer knows that deciding who keeps the house during divorce is not just about emotion. It’s also about what makes sense legally and financially. Even if your divorce is ending amicably, this can throw a wrench in your plans.

If you’re in this situation, it helps to look at the full picture. The court will consider several factors when deciding who, if anyone, gets to keep the house. Knowing what to expect—and how to prepare—can help you make decisions that protect your future. Each year, our peers vote us Super Lawyer and we want to make sure you are getting the help you need. Give our office a call.

Start By Looking At Ownership And Equity

First, consider how the house is titled. If it’s in both of your names, it’s considered marital property in most cases, even if one of you paid more into it. If it’s in one person’s name, that doesn’t automatically mean the other has no claim. What matters most is whether the house was purchased during the marriage and how it was paid for.

The court will look at the home’s current value and subtract any remaining mortgage or debt. That gives you the equity—the portion of the home that has value after debts are paid. If one of you wants to keep the house, that person will likely need to buy out the other’s share of the equity.

Think About What You Can Afford

Wanting to stay in the home and being able to afford it are two different things. If you’re asking to keep the house, the court will want to see that you can manage the mortgage, taxes, insurance, and upkeep on your own. If you rely on your spouse’s income or if both incomes are needed to cover the mortgage, you may need to reconsider.

On the other hand, if your spouse wants to keep the home, they’ll need to show the court they can afford it. In some cases, the court may order the house to be sold if neither of you can keep it without financial strain.

Consider How It Affects The Rest Of The Settlement

Keeping the house may mean giving up something else. You may need to trade away your share of retirement accounts, vehicles, or other assets to make things even. The court’s goal is to divide property fairly, not necessarily equally. If one person takes on the house, the other may get a larger share of other marital property.

Before making a decision, think about how keeping the house fits into your long-term financial plan. Will you be able to refinance in your name alone? Will it limit your ability to move forward in other areas of your life?

Protect Your Rights And Make Informed Choices

Fighting over the house can turn emotional quickly. It’s important to stay focused on facts, not just feelings. A family lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, review your financial position, and find a strategy that makes sense for you.

Attorneys like those at Robinson & Hadeed have seen firsthand how stressful property disputes can become during divorce. But with the right guidance, you can weigh your options and work toward a solution that supports your goals. If you’re in the middle of a divorce and facing tough questions about who gets the house, don’t try to figure it out on your own. Many other attorneys send their cases to us, so trust us with something this important to you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and talk through your options with a family law attorney who can help you make the right decision for your future.

Fighting For Custody When The Other Parent Is Manipulative

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Going through a custody battle is hard enough, but when the other parent is manipulative, it can become even more difficult. Whether they are lying to your child, making false claims about you, or trying to control the situation behind the scenes, it’s important to recognize these tactics and respond in a way that protects both your rights and your child’s well-being. If you’re in this situation, our Tacoma, WA custody lawyer knows that you’re not alone. Many parents have had to stand up to unfair behavior while trying to do what’s best for their kids. The legal system is designed to focus on the child’s best interests, and there are steps you can take to make your case stronger, even when the other parent is playing games. We have 54 years of family law experience, so reach out to our team now.

Pay Attention To Their Behavior

Manipulative parents often try to turn children against the other parent. They might use guilt, false stories, or pressure to influence how the child feels about spending time with you. This kind of behavior is not only harmful, but it can also be considered a form of emotional abuse.

Start documenting what’s happening. Keep records of things your child says that seem influenced, or any communication from the other parent that seems controlling or dishonest. Save text messages, emails, or voicemails that show a pattern of manipulation. Over time, this documentation can be useful in court to demonstrate the kind of behavior the other parent is showing. This can help if you want to make custody modifications.

Stay Focused On Your Child’s Needs

It’s easy to get caught up in defending yourself against every false claim or reacting to every upsetting action. But in court, what matters most is how well you’re supporting your child’s emotional and physical needs. Keep that at the center of your case.

Show that you are consistent, reliable, and focused on your child’s health, education, and daily life. Judges pay close attention to which parent is creating a stable and supportive environment. The more you demonstrate that you’re putting your child first, the more that works in your favor.

Use Legal Tools To Protect Your Rights

You don’t have to handle a manipulative co-parent alone. The law provides tools to deal with unfair behavior. For example, if one parent is trying to alienate the child from the other, you may be able to request a custody evaluation or ask the court to appoint a guardian ad litem. These professionals speak to the child, observe both parents, and report back to the judge.

You can also ask the court to modify communication between you and the other parent if they’re using it to harass or intimidate you. In some cases, a judge may order communication to go through a parenting app that tracks messages and keeps a record of all interactions.

Be Prepared And Stay Consistent

Custody decisions aren’t made based on one incident—they’re based on patterns. Keep showing up for your child, stick to your parenting plan, and keep records of anything that shows manipulation or interference. Judges notice when one parent is following the rules and the other is not.

The attorneys at Robinson & Hadeed know how important it is to show the court a full and accurate picture. When the other parent is being dishonest or manipulative, your goal should be to keep everything well-documented and legally focused. That way, you’re not just reacting emotionally—you’re building a strong case. If you’re dealing with a manipulative co-parent and need help protecting your time with your child, now is the time to talk to a family law attorney. The right legal guidance can help you stay focused and take the right steps for your custody case. Our firm specializes in helping with complicated custody situations. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and find out how you can move forward with confidence.

 

Help With Child Support Changes

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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.

Amicably Divorcing When There Is Shared Debt

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Divorce is never easy, but when both spouses are willing to work together, the process can be more manageable—especially when it comes to dividing debt. Our Tacoma, WA divorce lawyer knows that shared debt is often one of the biggest financial concerns in a divorce. Whether it’s credit card balances, car loans, a mortgage, or joint lines of credit, those obligations don’t just disappear when the marriage ends. If you’re planning to separate on good terms, addressing debt early and clearly can help prevent future issues. Other attorneys have sent their cases to us, so know that we are ready to take on a challenge and fight for you.

Identify All Debts

Start by gathering a full picture of what debts exist. This includes joint accounts, loans taken out in both names, and any individual debts that may have been used for the benefit of the household. Pull credit reports to make sure nothing is overlooked. Being thorough at this stage is important. If either of you forgets to disclose a debt, it could complicate things down the line.

Decide How To Divide It

Once you’ve listed all debts, the next step is deciding how to divide them. Some couples choose to split everything down the middle. Others divide debt based on who is keeping certain assets, like the car tied to a loan or the home connected to a mortgage. You might also consider each person’s ability to pay. If one of you has a higher income or better credit, that may play a role in the final agreement.

In an amicable divorce, you have more flexibility to work out a fair arrangement together. Still, it’s important to put the terms in writing, either in a settlement agreement or directly in the divorce order. That way, there’s no confusion about who is responsible for what.

Watch Out For Joint Accounts

Even if your divorce agreement assigns a particular debt to one person, lenders still see both names on joint accounts. If your name remains on a loan and your ex stops paying, the lender can come after you for the balance. To avoid this, it’s a good idea to close or refinance joint accounts where possible. Transferring balances to individual accounts or consolidating loans in one name can also help separate your financial obligations.

Keep Up Communication

In an amicable divorce, you’re likely still able to communicate with each other. Use that to your advantage. Set up a plan for how each of you will stay on top of your assigned debts. Consider putting reminders in place or scheduling periodic check-ins during the transition. Staying on the same page reduces the risk of late payments and credit damage for both of you.

Get Legal Help To Finalize the Agreement

Even when everything is amicable, having legal guidance from a family lawyer helps you avoid mistakes. A clear, written agreement protects both parties and gives the court something to enforce if needed. At Robinson & Hadeed, we help clients work through divorce terms in a way that’s fair and straightforward and we also serve Kitsap County, Pierce Orchard County, and Port Orchard. If you’re going through a divorce and want help addressing shared debt as part of the process, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you move forward with confidence and clarity.

Split Custody Of Siblings

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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.

Help With Child Custody Modifications

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When life circumstances change, our Tacoma, WA family law lawyer knows the arrangements that were made in a child custody agreement can fluctuate as well. Whether due to a change in a parent’s work schedule, relocation, or a shift in a child’s needs, custody modifications are sometimes necessary. While it’s common for parents to want to modify a custody arrangement, the process can be challenging and requires careful attention to detail. We are highly rated on AVVO, and one of our lawyers can guide you through this process, helping you achieve a solution that is in the best interest of your child.

When Child Custody Modifications Are Necessary

Child custody orders are made based on what is considered best for the child at the time of the initial decision. However, circumstances can change, and what worked in the past may no longer be in the child’s best interest. This is when a modification may be necessary. Common reasons for modifying a custody order include a parent’s change in employment, health issues, a parent relocating to another area, or a child’s changing needs as they get older.

For example, if one parent is required to move for a job, it could be necessary to adjust custody and visitation schedules to accommodate the move. Similarly, if a child has developed a stronger bond with one parent or has specific educational or health needs, the custody arrangement may need to reflect these changes.

The Process Of Modifying Child Custody Orders

The process of modifying a child custody order can be complex. Courts typically do not change custody arrangements unless there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was made. This means that before filing for a modification, it’s essential to have a valid reason for requesting the change.

One of the first steps is to file a petition with the court explaining why the modification is necessary. This petition must provide evidence that the circumstances have significantly changed and that the current arrangement is no longer in the best interest of the child. A family law lawyer can help compile the necessary documentation, such as proof of a parent’s relocation, a change in employment, or any other relevant changes, to support your petition.

How A Lawyer Can Support You In The Modification Process

A family law lawyer can be incredibly helpful when pursuing a modification. First, they can help assess whether there is a valid reason for modifying the custody agreement. In some cases, minor changes in the schedule may not be enough to justify a formal modification, so having a lawyer assess your situation can save time and frustration.

Once you’ve determined that a modification is appropriate, a lawyer will assist in preparing the petition and gathering the required evidence. They will ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted correctly, minimizing the risk of delays or complications. If the other parent contests the modification, a lawyer can represent you in court, presenting your case and advocating for your child’s best interests.

Ensuring The Child’s Best Interests Are Prioritized

Above all, a family law lawyer can help ensure that the child’s best interests remain the focus throughout the modification process. The court’s primary concern when modifying a custody order is what is best for the child, and a lawyer can assist in framing the modification request in a way that clearly shows how the change will benefit the child.

Whether you are seeking a change to the visitation schedule or need to modify the primary custody arrangement, a lawyer can help you present your case in a way that meets the legal criteria for modification. They can also help anticipate any potential objections from the other parent and prepare a strategy to address these concerns.

How We Can Help

If you are considering requesting a child custody modification, working with a family law lawyer can make the process smoother and more efficient. At Robinson & Hadeed, we understand how important your child’s well-being is, and we are here to help guide you through the process. We have 54 years of family law experience and can help you. If you have experienced a significant change in circumstances and need to modify your child custody agreement, contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you move forward.

Probate Disputes And High-Asset Inheritances

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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.

Challenges In Valuing A Business For Estates

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When planning for the future and deciding how to pass on assets, business owners often face unique challenges when it comes to valuing their business for estate planning. As our Port Orchard, WA high-asset business valuation lawyers know, a business, especially a family-owned or closely held business, can be one of the most valuable assets in an estate. However, determining its worth is rarely a simple task. There are multiple factors to consider, and the process can become even more complicated when business interests need to be divided among family members or beneficiaries. We have been voted Super Lawyer every year by our peers, so call us today.

Valuation Disagreements Among Heirs

One of the most common challenges our lawyers see in high-asset estate planning cases is disagreements among heirs or beneficiaries about the business’s value. If there is no clear, up-to-date valuation, heirs may dispute the business’s worth, leading to conflicts that can delay the estate settlement process. Without an objective, professional valuation, the potential for misunderstanding or disagreement increases, especially if some family members feel the value isn’t fair or representative of what they believe they are entitled to.

These disagreements can also arise if the business owner hasn’t communicated their intentions clearly or hasn’t involved professional advisors. In some cases, different heirs may have varying expectations about the business’s value, whether they want to sell it, continue operating it, or receive their share in cash. These different goals can make it hard to reach a fair agreement, especially without proper legal guidance.

Determining The Right Valuation Method

Another challenge in valuing a business for estate planning is choosing the right valuation method. There are several methods to consider, including the income approach, asset-based approach, and market-based approach. Each method calculates a business’s value in a different way, which can lead to discrepancies in the final number.

For example, the income approach looks at the company’s future earning potential, while the asset-based approach considers the business’s current assets and liabilities. The market-based approach compares the business to similar companies that have been sold recently. Depending on the type of business, its size, and its industry, one method may be more appropriate than others.

Attorneys like those at Robinson & Hadeed can help business owners and families understand which valuation method is most appropriate for their specific needs. We can also help ensure that the method chosen is supported by evidence, making it more likely to stand up in court or satisfy the requirements of tax authorities.

Dealing With Intangible Assets

When valuing a business for estate planning, intangible assets can present a challenge, and it is important to be honest with your lawyer. These assets include things like intellectual property, brand value, goodwill, and customer relationships. Intangibles often account for a significant portion of a business’s overall value, but because they aren’t physically measurable, valuing them can be difficult.

For family-owned businesses, these intangible assets may have significant emotional value as well, adding another layer of complexity to the process. Determining how to divide these assets among heirs, especially when there’s sentimental value attached, can lead to disputes if not handled properly. It’s important to take into account not only the financial worth of these intangibles but also their potential long-term impact on the business’s future success.

Planning For Business Succession

Lastly, business succession is often a primary consideration in high-asset estate planning. Many business owners want to pass the company on to family members or employees. However, succession planning involves more than just valuing the business. It also includes developing a strategy for leadership transitions and ensuring that the business will remain viable after the current owner’s passing.

A key challenge here is aligning the business valuation with the succession plan. If the business valuation is not aligned with the goals of the succession plan, the future of the business could be at risk. Additionally, heirs who are not involved in the business may not understand the challenges of running it, which can lead to operational difficulties after the transition.

Taking The First Step Toward Estate Planning

Valuing a business for estate planning requires careful thought and consideration. Whether it’s resolving disputes among heirs, choosing the right valuation method, or addressing tax issues, working with an attorney and financial advisor is crucial to ensure a fair and effective estate plan.

If you are a business owner looking to plan for the future, we recommend speaking with a legal professional who can guide you through the process. At Robinson & Hadeed, we can help you value your business accurately and make sure your estate plan is structured in a way that protects your assets and your family’s future. We have 54 years of family law experience, so contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your estate planning needs.

Help To Modify Your Child Support Order

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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.