Navigating legal challenges can be daunting, whether you’re facing a family matter, personal injury, traffic infraction, or criminal charge. At Northwest Law Group, our dedicated team of Northwest Lawyers is committed to providing experienced and compassionate legal representation to clients throughout the greater Bellevue area and beyond. For the past five years, we have proudly served residents of King and Snohomish counties, offering a client-focused approach that prioritizes your understanding and informed decision-making throughout the legal process.
Our lead family law attorney, Alice, deeply understands the emotional complexities often associated with divorce and family disputes. She and the entire team at Northwest Law Group emphasize clear communication and client involvement, ensuring you are always well-informed and empowered to make the best choices for your future. We believe in resolving legal matters as efficiently and effectively as possible, minimizing stress and uncertainty for our clients.
Comprehensive Family Law Services in the Northwest
Family law matters require a sensitive and knowledgeable approach. As your northwest lawyer, Northwest Law Group offers a full spectrum of family law services to guide you through every step of the process:
Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce)
In Washington State, divorce is legally termed “dissolution of marriage.” It’s a no-fault state, meaning neither spouse needs to prove wrongdoing to initiate the process. Our northwest lawyers are adept at navigating dissolution proceedings, aiming to reduce conflict and promote amicable resolutions, especially in cases involving children. We focus on fair settlements and protecting your best interests during this significant life transition.
Legal Separations
For couples seeking legal relief without formally ending their marriage, legal separation offers a viable alternative. It provides similar legal outcomes to divorce regarding property division, support, and child arrangements, but allows the marriage to remain legally intact. While parties in legal separation cannot remarry, either spouse can petition to convert the separation into a full dissolution after a six-month waiting period. Our experienced northwest lawyer team can advise if this option suits your circumstances.
Annulments (Decree of Invalidity)
Annulments, or Decrees of Invalidity, are less common and reserved for specific situations where a marriage is deemed legally invalid from the start. The criteria for annulment are strict and often involve complex legal arguments. Even in annulment cases, the court retains jurisdiction to grant similar legal relief as in divorce or separation. Having a skilled northwest lawyer from our Bellevue office is crucial to navigate the intricacies of annulment proceedings.
Child Custody and Parenting Plans
Washington State uses the term “parenting plan” instead of “custody,” emphasizing shared parental responsibility. Our priority is to create parenting plans that serve the child’s best interests, ensuring both parents have sufficient time to foster a loving and stable relationship. As your northwest lawyer, we advocate for arrangements that promote healthy co-parenting and prioritize your children’s well-being.
Child Support
Both parents in Washington are legally obligated to financially support their children. Child support amounts are calculated using the Washington State Child Support Schedule, considering each parent’s income, number of children, and related expenses. Child support can be a long-term financial commitment, and our northwest lawyers work diligently to ensure equitable contributions from both parents, reflecting the long-term needs of the children.
Spousal Maintenance (Alimony)
Unlike child support, spousal maintenance, or alimony, has no fixed formula. It’s determined based on various factors, including the length of the marriage, each spouse’s earning capacity, and their age and health. The court has significant discretion in these matters, making experienced legal representation essential. A knowledgeable northwest lawyer from our firm can effectively advocate for your financial interests in spousal maintenance negotiations or litigation.
Division of Property
Washington is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are jointly owned. Separate property includes assets owned before or after the marriage. Fair and equitable property division is a key aspect of divorce proceedings. For high-net-worth couples or complex asset divisions, skilled legal counsel is paramount. Our northwest lawyers possess the expertise to navigate intricate property division matters, ensuring a just outcome.
Modification of Court Orders
Life circumstances change, and sometimes existing court orders need to be modified. Modifications typically apply to parenting plans, child support, and spousal maintenance. However, courts require substantial changes in circumstances since the original order to grant modifications. These cases have high legal standards, and our northwest lawyers have a proven track record of successfully handling modification actions in Bellevue and surrounding areas.
Domestic Violence Protection Orders
Domestic Violence Orders for Protection and Restraining Orders are crucial legal tools in family law. Domestic Violence Orders are separate from divorce cases, while Restraining Orders can be part of them. Both types of orders can provide critical protection, including preventing contact, granting temporary residence, and addressing temporary child custody. If you require a protection order, our northwest lawyers can provide immediate assistance and guidance.
Beyond Family Law: Additional Legal Services
Northwest Law Group is your comprehensive legal resource in the Northwest. In addition to family law, our skilled northwest lawyers also provide representation in:
Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, our Bellevue personal injury attorneys can help you pursue compensation for your damages. We handle all aspects of personal injury claims, from proving liability to maximizing your recovery for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Traffic Infractions
From speeding tickets to more serious traffic violations, our attorneys can assist you in mitigating the consequences of traffic infractions. While some infractions seem minor, they can lead to fines, increased insurance rates, and even court appearances. Our northwest lawyers work to minimize these negative impacts and efficiently resolve traffic matters.
Criminal Law
Facing criminal charges can be incredibly stressful and disruptive. At Northwest Law Group, we believe in second chances and provide non-judgmental legal defense for individuals facing criminal accusations, including DUI. A criminal conviction, even for a seemingly minor offense like DUI, can have severe repercussions. Our experienced northwest lawyers are dedicated to protecting your rights and seeking the best possible outcome in your criminal case.
Contact a Trusted Northwest Lawyer Today
No matter your legal challenge, Northwest Law Group is here to help. Our team of experienced northwest lawyers is ready to provide you with the skilled and compassionate representation you deserve. Contact us today through our website or by phone for a consultation. We are committed to guiding you towards a resolution and helping you move forward with confidence.
