McKinley Irvin Blogs from February 2023

• Emotional Affairs and Divorce

  Feb 27, 2023
  In a society with an increasing reliance on technology and social media use, it can feel easier than ever to find romantic interests in our day-to-day lives. A recent survey shows that almost one-fifth of U.S. adults are taking advantage of the booming online dating industry through apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble. While the world of online connection can be a positive way to stay in touch with friends and make new ones, social technology can also open the door to infidelity. While physical affairs may be the first ...
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• Four Mistakes to Avoid When Searching for a Divorce Attorney

  Feb 24, 2023
  Choosing the right attorney to handle a divorce case can be overwhelming with all of the different options that are available. However, having the right attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of matters like child custody, child support, and alimony. Although some people are tempted to hire the first lawyer they find just because they want to get the divorce over with as quickly as possible, it is a major decision that should not be taken lightly. Below, we explain what to consider and which mistakes to avoid ...
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• Why Parents Shouldn’t Stay Married for the Kids’ Sake

  Feb 20, 2023
  Divorce can be a treacherous path to navigate. Emotions can run high after a couple decides to end a marriage—and for couples with children, stress levels can surge even higher when it comes time to determine child custody and child support in court. Although divorce takes its toll on parents, it can also take a toll on children. Many parents neglect to manage their own emotions for the sake of shielding their children from the conflict, stress, and upheaval of divorce. While it can be tough for children to process that ...
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• It’s Never Too Late to Learn from Co-Parenting Mistakes

  Feb 16, 2023
  We understand that adjusting your parenting style after divorce can be challenging, especially when emotions run high when interacting with the other parent. However, part of becoming a better co-parent is to identify when you have made a mistake and take the necessary steps to make amends. Although co-parenting is fraught with various obstacles that can make it difficult for parents to cooperate, there is much that can be learned from the following co-parenting mistakes. Using Your Children to Obtain Information About the ...
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• How Courts Calculate a Parent’s Income for Child Support

  Feb 13, 2023
  Washington State expects both parents to contribute financially to the welfare and care of their children. Child support amounts are primarily driven by the parents’ incomes and the number of children requiring support. Calculating income is not as simple as looking at a person’s paycheck stub. There are potentially multiple sources of income that must be included and deductions that are subtracted. Income Sources Included in Child Support Calculation Most Washington residents receive their greatest income from a job or ...
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• Does It Matter Who Files For Divorce First?

  Feb 9, 2023
  Are There Benefits to Filing for Divorce First? Many people wonder if there is an advantage to filing for dissolution (divorce) first. This can depend your individual circumstances, but in general, there are some financial and legal benefits to being the first to file for divorce. The advantages of filing for divorce first can include: More Planning : You get to plan in advance and take your time selecting a lawyer, rather than having to scramble to find a lawyer to meet with you and file a response within 30 days of being ...
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• Common Financial Pitfalls in Divorce Agreements

  Feb 6, 2023
  Negotiating a divorce settlement can be a complicated and stressful ordeal for all involved parties. There are numerous decisions both parties will be forced to make that can substantially impact their financial security, which is why it is important to fully understand all of the terms of a divorce agreement. A poorly drafted agreement containing vague language might be unenforceable and leave one spouse vulnerable to financial pitfalls. Below, we explain which financial matters need to be considered to draft an effective ...
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• Pet Custody Battles in Divorce

  Feb 1, 2023
  In addition to child custody and spousal support, some couples have to also figure out how they will handle pet custody when they divorce. Courts generally place pets in the same category as other personal property, especially if the animal was expensive. In pet custody cases, judges usually want to know which party put up the money to purchase the pet, as well as whose income was primarily used to cover vet bills and other essentials for the animal. However, according to the Animal Legal and Historical Center at Michigan ...
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