The decision to sell a family home after a divorce is a significant one, often fraught with emotional and financial implications. Several factors may influence this choice. One common reason is to liquidate assets and divide the proceeds according to the terms of the divorce agreement. This approach can provide a clean break and help both parties move forward financially. Additionally, selling the home can avoid the ongoing costs and responsibilities of maintaining a property that no longer serves as a shared living space ..read more

Mediation, Arbitration, and Med-Arb in Family Law The dissolution of a marriage or the termination of a domestic partnership can be a complex and emotionally charged process. In navigating the legal intricacies of property division, child custody, and spousal support, many couples seek alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods to mitigate the stress and expense of traditional litigation. Mediation and arbitration are two prominent ADR options, with “med-arb” emerging as a hybrid approach. Mediation: A Collaborative ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more