Family Law
Protecting what matters most during life's difficult chapters.
From divorce and parenting agreements to custody disputes, we help individuals and families navigate complex personal legal matters with clarity and care. Legal matters involving personal relationships carry emotional weight, and our team brings a grounded, strategic approach to support you every step of the way.
Whether you're facing divorce or planning for your family's future, you deserve legal guidance that's both compassionate and effective. We focus on protecting your interests, preserving dignity, and finding resolutions that make sense—financially, emotionally, and legally.
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Divorce and legal separation
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Parenting plans and child custody
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Spousal maintenance and child support
What We Handle
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Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
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Property division and asset protection
Why Work With Us
We understand the weight of personal legal matters. Our approach empowers you with knowledge and delivers results aligned with your long-term goals. When litigation is necessary, we provide strong advocacy while seeking practical solutions that protect your family's interests.
Whether you need representation in court or guidance through complex family matters, we make the legal process manageable and clear.
Family Law at Advocates Law Group is led by:
Stacey Smythe
Stacey brings over three decades of experience in family law, estate planning, and mediation. Known for her steady counsel and practical insight, she helps clients resolve even the most emotional matters with confidence and care.
FAQ about Family Law
Even in uncontested divorces, having legal representation ensures your rights are protected and all paperwork is filed correctly. An attorney can review settlement agreements, explain long-term implications, and help avoid costly mistakes that could affect you for years to come.
Washington uses the term "residential schedule" rather than custody. Courts prioritize the child's best interests, considering factors like each parent's relationship with the child, stability of home environments, and the child's preferences (if age-appropriate). Most arrangements aim to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents.
Washington courts consider the length of marriage, each spouse's financial resources, earning capacity, age, health, and contributions to the marriage (including homemaking). The goal is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a reasonable standard of living while transitioning to financial independence.
In Washington, there's a mandatory 90-day waiting period after filing. Uncontested divorces may finalize shortly after this period, while contested cases involving complex assets or custody disputes can take 6-18 months or longer, depending on the issues involved.
Washington is a community property state, meaning assets and debts acquired during marriage are generally divided equally. Separate property (owned before marriage or received as gifts/inheritance) typically remains with the original owner, though exceptions may apply in long-term marriages.
Related Practice Areas
Contact Us to Explore Your Legal Options
If you're facing family legal challenges and need compassionate representation that understands what's at stake—start here.
Schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation:
📞 (206) 682-9600