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Divorce

Experienced Auburn Divorce Attorneys Guard Your Rights

Personalized attention in Pierce County and King County

If you are thinking about divorce or have been served with divorce papers, it is critically important to speak to a knowledgeable attorney. Your divorce decree will have a profound impact on your future; retaining a capable lawyer is the best way to secure a fair outcome with respect to property, support, and child custody. At the law office of Tim Edwards & Associates, P.S., we provide responsive divorce counsel and determined representation. Drawing on more than 46 combined years of experience, our divorce lawyers achieve consistently excellent results through traditional negotiation, mediation, and litigation in court.

Divorce basics in Washington State

If you are facing divorce, you are certainly not alone. Washington has the sixth highest divorce rate in the country, and in recent years, King County has had the highest number of divorces and annulments in the state — not a surprise since it’s also Washington’s most populous county. But no one going through a divorce wants to be treated like a statistic. At our firm, we provide highly personal service, taking the time to listen to your concerns, instruct you on the law, and search for practical solutions tailored specifically to your circumstances. But, while no two divorces are exactly alike, there are some basic points all divorcing couples should know:

  • Washington is a no-fault state — The only ground for divorce is that the marital relationship is “irretrievably broken.” Neither party can allege marital misconduct.
  • Divorce can be contested or uncontested — If a couple reaches a marital settlement, they can present the agreement to the court for approval. The agreement becomes the basis for the divorce order, the couple is spared a trial on the issues, and their divorce is said to be uncontested. If the parties cannot reach a complete settlement, any outstanding issues are held over for trial. Thus, the divorce is contested.
  • Temporary support is available for dependent spouses — A dependent spouse is entitled to spousal support (alimony), which is support while the divorce process is pending. This support can include money for attorney’s fees. The court can also issue a temporary order for child custody and child support.
  • Washington is a community property state — All assets and debts acquired during the marriage (with limited exceptions) are considered community property and divided between the spouses in a divorce. The division of property between spouses is fair and equitable.  Nowhere in Washington statutes does it require community property to be divided equally.  How property will be divided is determined by many factors.  It is important to see an attorney to learn what rights you have.
  • Mandatory parenting education — If there are minor children of the marriage, the parties must attend a seminar detailing the possible effects of divorce on children.

Most divorce cases are resolved by agreement after a period of negotiation. Many parties reach agreement by meeting with an impartial mediator.  When cases cannot be negotiated and settled, then trial is the only remaining option. In all cases, negotiated, mediated or tried, our clients benefit from Mr. Edwards’ unique experience of practicing family law for 40 years.

Comprehensive representation from the beginning of your case to the end

Attorney Tim Edwards has handled divorce cases for 40 years and devotes his practice exclusively to divorce and family law matters. Sara Leach joined our team in and devotes her practice exclusively to divorce and family law matters. Our firm handles all matters that may occur in a divorce case, including:

  • Property division
  • Child custody and visitation/parenting plans
  • Child support
  • Alimony/spousal support (alimony) claims
  • Domestic violence hearings and protective orders

If you retain our firm, we dedicate our efforts to protecting your financial and parental rights. We take the time necessary to understand your family dynamics, listen to you, answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the process as we actively seek the best possible result in your case.

Contact an established Auburn law firm for trustworthy divorce representation

Tim Edwards & Associates, P.S. represents parties to divorce throughout Pierce County and King County. To schedule an appointment at our office located in Auburn, call 253-833-6633 or contact us online.

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Our Office
  • 1412 M Street S.E.
    Auburn, Washington 98002
    Phone: 253-833-6633
    Fax: 253-833-4450
EXPERIENCE
  • OVER 45 YEARS

    Trial Attorney focused on Family Law
  • OVER 40 YEARS

    Superior Court Judge Pro Tem

    Superior Court Commissioner Pro Tem

    Superior Court Mediator / Arbitrator

  • PAST PRESIDENT

    Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association, Family Law Section
    ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR, 2012
  • PAST PRESIDENT

    South King County Bar Association