Family Law Blog

McKinley Irvin Blog

A little knowledge can go a long way to protect your assets and family relationships. Planning can save headaches and money, and can provide peace of mind. The articles and tips in this section of the McKinley Irvin website are intended to help you understand and prepare for some of the more common issues you’ll encounter in a divorce, child custody, or other family law matter.

Please be advised that family cases can be very complex. The information provided here should not be construed as legal advice in your case.

  • Paying Child Support: Income Withholding

    Paying Child Support: Income Withholding Income Withholding for Child Support in Washington State Income withholding is a process where a portion of an individual's paycheck is automatically deducted to fulfill child support obligations. In Washington State, income withholding is generally mandatory unless specific circumstances, such as military service or certain types of disability, apply. This system ensures that child support payments are received regularly, helping to guarantee the financial stability of children and their custodial parents. It's a reliable ...
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  • How Co-Parents Can Divide the Holidays

    How Co-Parents Can Divide the Holidays The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and cherished traditions. However, for co-parents, this festive time can also present unique challenges in navigating child custody schedules. Dividing holiday time effectively becomes crucial in ensuring children can experience the magic of the holidays with both parents while minimizing disruption and stress. In this blog, we will explore the importance of creating a balanced holiday parenting plan, addressing common hurdles co-parents face, and offering practical ...
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  • Gifts & Community Property Laws in WA

    Gifts & Community Property Laws in WA Divorce is a complex process, and the division of assets can be particularly worrisome, especially when it comes to sentimental items like gifts. In Washington, a community property state, understanding the rules surrounding gift ownership during divorce is important. Imagine receiving a cherished gift only to face the possibility of losing it due to marital dissolution. This blog aims to provide clear and straightforward information about how gifts are treated in Washington divorces. We'll break down the legalities, explain ...
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  • McKinley Irvin Ranked #2 in 2024 Washington’s Best Workplaces by PSBJ

    McKinley Irvin Ranked #2 in 2024 Washington’s Best Workplaces by PSBJ MI Ranks #2 in the Large Company Category Last night, the Puget Sound Business Journal announced rankings for Washington’s Best 100 Workplaces at a celebration at T-Mobile Park. McKinley Irvin ranked #2 on the list among other companies with 100-249 employees. This is the third consecutive year that McKinley Irvin has been recognized as one of Washington’s Best Workplaces, and our #2 ranking in the Large Company category for 2024 is our highest to date. About the Best Workplaces Ranking The Best Workplaces list is determined ...
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  • How a Criminal Record Affects Child Custody in Washington State

    How a Criminal Record Affects Child Custody in Washington State Criminal Convictions Can Affect Whether You Are Awarded Custody A criminal conviction can raise concerns during child custody disputes. However, the impact isn't uniform. Judges focus on the child's best interests, and the specific circumstances surrounding your conviction play a crucial role in their assessment. The Specifics Matter Yes, a criminal record or conviction can impact your case outcome, but the details matter. Some of the factors surrounding the conviction that will be considered include: Recency. Recent ...
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  • Common Gray Divorce Regrets & How To Avoid Them

    Common Gray Divorce Regrets & How To Avoid Them The term “gray divorce” refers to the rising trend of couples over the age of 50 dissolving their long-term marriages. Late-in-life divorces are increasingly prevalent due to a confluence of factors. Greater life expectancy allows individuals to re-evaluate their happiness later in life, while societal shifts regarding gender roles and economic independence for women empower them to pursue separate paths. Also, once adult children are grown up and more independent, some couples no longer feel the same pressures to stay ...
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  • 35 McKinley Irvin Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers®

    35 McKinley Irvin Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers® We are proud to announce the 35 McKinley Irvin attorneys recognized in the 2025 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America ® and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, a new record for our firm. The annual Best Lawyers list is based entirely on peer reviews. Through this process, they determine a consensus of the leading attorneys in each legal practice area for their geographical region. Inclusion in Best Lawyers is considered a significant honor in the legal profession. McKinley Irvin received nine “Top-Listed” awards, which identify ...
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  • Preparing for Divorce: A Quick Guide

    Preparing for Divorce: A Quick Guide The Importance of Preparation While divorce is an emotionally charged process, taking steps to prepare beforehand can significantly benefit you in the long run. Proactive preparation allows for a more measured approach, empowering you to make informed decisions about your future. Steps to Take When Preparing for Divorce Consider How You Wish to Proceed Seeking legal counsel early in the process is a strategically crucial first step. A divorce lawyer acts as a guide and advocate throughout the proceedings, ensuring your ...
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  • At What Age Can a Child Choose Where to Live?

    At What Age Can a Child Choose Where to Live? At What Age Can a Child Choose Which Parent to Live With? Unlike adults, who have the freedom to choose their living arrangements at the age of 18, minors do not have an explicit choice. The decision regarding a minor’s custody is ultimately determined by the court, which considers various factors to ensure the child's best interests are met. Children Can Still Express Their Preference In custody cases involving minors, the court may consider the child's preferences, particularly if the child is mature enough to articulate a ...
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  • McKinley Irvin Celebrates 26 Attorneys Recognized by Super Lawyers in 2024

    McKinley Irvin Celebrates 26 Attorneys Recognized by Super Lawyers in 2024 McKinley Irvin is pleased to announce our list of 26 family law attorneys who have been included in the 2024 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists. This recognition is a reflection of our attorneys’ commitment to excellence and the high standards we uphold in serving our clients. Senior attorneys Rainer Frank, Jane Malico, and partner Samuel Page were recognized on the Super Lawyers list for the first time, and attorney Caitlin Royse is a new addition to the Rising Stars list. Attorneys Courtney Bellio and Jack Dekovich were ...
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  • Best Lawyers
  • Best Law Firms
  • AV Preeminent
  • Chambers Top Rank
  • Puget Sound Business Journal Washington's Best Workplaces 2023
  • American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
  • Best Lawyers - Lawyer of the Year 2024
  • Super Lawyers
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  • "We would highly recommend the knowledgeable and dedicated law firm of McKinley Irvin to anyone who might be seeking legal services. " P.M.
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