Dividing up the property during a divorce can become problematic even with the help of a Washington Family lawyer.
A Washington State divorce attorney will be able to explain that Washington is a community property state. Generally this means that:
- Everything acquired before the marriage remains with the spouse who acquired it. Defined as separate property.
- Everything acquired during marriage is community property.
- Anything acquired after separation from the spouses is considered separate property.
- Any gifts given specifically to one spouse—not both—during the marriage are considered separate property of the recipient.
At the end of the marriage, typically separate property remains with the party whose property it was and community property is shared between the spouses.
If the matter is decided by the court, however, there are several factors taken into consideration when dividing property.
- The length of the union.
- The nature and scope of the separate property.
- The nature and scope of the community property.
- The economic situation of each individual at the time the property is divided. Children and where they reside will be included in this decision. In some cases, the court may even take some of one person’s separate property and give it to the other due to the unequal financial circumstances of the spouses. In the end, it comes down to a question of what is fair.
A family divorce attorney can help you get what is best for you and your children.
Lambert Law 360-737-1473 is known for her compassion and understanding of the law.
Crystal Lambert-Schroeder represents men and women, fathers, mothers, domestic partners, grandparents, extended family and adoptive parents in the resolution of family law issues. Her office understands that each matter — from divorce, to child custody, to adoption — is unique, and carries with it unique goals.
Call today 360-737-1473.