Relationship Planning

Setting your relationship up for success

Falling in love is the most amazing feeling. When you are ready to take that next step, whether moving in or getting married, actively working with your spouse on future plans should be part of your process. We are here to help. Our skilled family law attorneys can provide guidance as you navigate the laws that could impact you and your relationship. Planning for your future is the ultimate expression of care. After all, what could be more romantic than talking about your future plans and then setting that plan together?

BEFORE YOU SAY ‘I DO’

Prenuptial Agreements

You’re engaged! Congratulations. This is such an exciting time in your life. Working through a prenuptial agreement together can lay the foundation for open and honest communication during your marriage. Through the formation of the agreement, you will be discussing your financial situation and plans for the future. Did you know that couples with prenuptial agreements are actually less likely to get a divorce than those without them?

Our team of attorneys in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties are ready to discuss your options and determine whether a prenup is the right choice for you. They are available to draft or review as needed to help ensure the document meets the fairness standards set by Washington courts.Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time in your life. Working through a prenuptial agreement together can lay the foundation for open and honest communication during your marriage. Through the formation of the agreement, you will be discussing your financial situation and plans for the future. Did you know that couples with prenuptial agreements are actually less likely to get divorced than those without them?

Our team of skilled attorneys, serving the entire state of Washington, is primed to assist you in comprehending your alternatives and deciding whether a prenup aligns with your needs. They are available to draft or review as needed to help ensure the document meets the fairness standards set by the Washington courts.

Prenuptial agreements hold more than just legal value—they symbolize an open approach to the future and a dedication to the longevity of your marital journey.

PRENUPTIAL FACTS

Things to
Know Before

Washington State is a community property state. In a divorce handled through litigation, the court would decide how all of your assets, personal property, and real property should be divided. If you and your partner do not decide how you wish to manage your future, the court would decide for you. A good prenup agreement puts you and your partner in the driver's seat

It could include anything you want, but the primary purpose is to protect and divide property. Either party can contest a prenup, and the court will determine if it is enforceable. If you decide to divorce and both parties agree, your divorce will likely be straightforward.

If a prenuptial agreement is deemed fair by a local court, then a judge can enforce it in the event of a divorce. Both spouses must understand their legal rights and what they are giving up. One of our skilled lawyers can provide practical advice to ensure your prenup is legally valid.

Absolutely. The terms of your prenup can be changed if you mutually consent to the modifications. For legal reasons, this is best done in writing. Similarly, if you want to dissolve or rescind your agreement, a new contract will need to be created and agreed to by both parties.

Communication is at the heart of any good marriage and starting that before marriage will improve your prospects. Juggling family dynamics can be difficult, and people may have a difficult time reconciling the needs of their parents, or children, and prospective spouse.

Postnuptial Agreement

A postnuptial agreement, often referred to as postnups, have gained significant popularity in recent years. There are various compelling reasons for couples in Washington state to contemplate entering into a post nuptial agreement. Engaging in thoughtful conversations about potential changes in your relationship’s circumstances can foster stability and confidence within a marriage.

Allow our dedicated matrimonial and family law attorneys, to create a well-crafted postnup that can cover various aspects, such as determining arrangements for your children, defining the division of assets, and many more.

By collaborating with one of our experienced postnuptial agreement lawyers, you can create a post-marital agreement tailored to your unique situation, ensuring that your agreement comprehensively addresses these important matters, and providing you and your partner with peace of mind.

UNMARRIED COUPLES

Cohabitation Agreements

If you and your partner decide to live together without marrying, it’s wise to consider establishing a cohabitation agreement. What is a cohabitation agreement, you ask? Well, it’s a contract designed to outline the financial and property-related aspects of your relationship. This agreement becomes particularly crucial if your relationship meets the court-defined criteria for a committed intimate relationship. In the absence of such an agreement, assets and debts acquired during the relationship might be subject to equitable distribution by the court.

To more clearly determine how assets will be distributed and utilized in the event of separation or the passing of one partner, many couples opt to enter a legally binding contract. This contract is commonly referred to as a “Cohabitation Agreement” or “Living Together Agreement.” It effectively defines the rights of each partner and establishes the desired outcomes.

Our team of family law attorneys, based in Washington state, can expertly draft this agreement for you and your partner, offering comprehensive protection for both parties.

UNMARRIED COUPLES

Cohabitation Agreements

If you decide to live with your partner but not marry, you may want to consider creating a contract to define the financial and other property aspects of your relationship. Without an agreement, and assuming your relationship meets court-defined standards of a committed intimate relationship, the court will equitably distribute assets and debts considered community property acquired during the relationship.

To more clearly determine how assets will be distributed and used upon separation or one partner’s death, couples often choose to enter into a contract, known as a “Cohabitation Agreement” or “Living Together Agreement,” defining their rights and desired outcome. Our Washington-based family law attorneys can write a contract for you and your partner to ensure you are both protected.

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ANOTHER OPTION

Domestic Partnerships

Domestic partnership in Washington State, are less prevalent following the federal recognition of same-sex marriage. Nevertheless, opting for registration as domestic partners bestows upon couples the legal rights and responsibilities akin to those of married couples under state law. It’s important to note that while registered domestic partnership provides state-level privileges, these couples do not enjoy identical rights and responsibilities as married couples at the federal level.

If you’re considering entering a domestic partnership, you don’t necessarily require an attorney to facilitate the process. You might want to consider engaging our experienced team of estate planning and family law attorneys. Their expertise can be invaluable in safeguarding your assets and ensuring your intentions are preserved within the framework of domestic partnership regulations in Washington State.