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Unmarried Couples Family Law Attorney in Spokane, WA
At Hodgson Law Office, we understand that legal matters for unmarried couples can be complex and emotionally charged. Our team of experienced attorneys in Spokane is dedicated to providing you with the legal guidance and representation you need to protect your rights, whether it involves property division, child custody, or other family law matters regarding unmarried cohabitants or a marriage-like relationship.
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about us
Our Dedicated Family Law Lawyers for Unmarried Couples Are Here to Assist You!
We understand that family law matters can be some of life's most stressful events
If you're an unmarried couple facing legal issues, our experienced family law attorneys at Hodgson Law Office are here to help. We understand that legal matters involving unmarried couples and an unofficial marital status can be complex and emotionally charged, which is why we offer compassionate and personalized legal services to assist you.
Our attorneys have years of experience in handling legal issues for unmarried couples, including property division, child custody and support, and domestic violence. Our legal team can help you establish paternity, negotiate cohabitation agreements, and represent you in adoption and dissolution proceedings. We serve clients in Spokane, Spokane County, Stevens County, Lincoln County, and Adams County.
We believe that every client deserves individualized attention and zealous representation. That's why we work tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the best possible outcome even if you aren't a married couple. If you need legal assistance with an issue related to unmarried couples or you're leaving a long-term relationship, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We're here to help!
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Common Types of Unmarried Couples' Legal Issues with Which We Can Help
At Hodgson Law Office, we provide legal representation for a wide range of issues related to unmarried couples, including child custody, support, adoption, property division, and more.
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Committed Internal Relationships
Washington State doesn't accept common-law marriage, so no legal rules for dividing assets exist in the event of an unmarried couple's separation. The courts refer to committed intimate relationships to address this, covering property obtained during the relationship for all unmarried couples..webp)
Domestic Partnership
In 2007, Washington State instituted domestic partnerships to grant same-sex couples rights like those of married couples. It also covers those over 62, regardless of orientation. Our lawyers support couples in registering for and handling the legal aspects of domestic partnerships..webp)
Same-Sex Unmarried Cohabitants
Our attorneys in Spokane, Washington can provide legal guidance and representation to same-sex unmarried cohabitants. We can help with legal matters such as division of property, child custody, and adoption, and ensure that our client's rights are protected under Washington State law..webp)
Terminating a Domestic Partnership
Our Spokane family law attorneys can assist with terminating a domestic partnership. We can guide clients through the domestic partnership divorce process, which includes dividing property and debts, determining spousal support, and addressing child custody and support. Our goal is to help clients achieve the best possible outcome in their domestic partnership dissolution..webp)
Protection Orders
Our Spokane family law attorneys can assist with obtaining protection orders for unmarried couples facing domestic violence. We can guide clients through the process of obtaining an order, which can provide legal protection from an abusive partner. We can also provide legal representation in court to ensure our client's safety and well-being..webp)
Paternity
Our experienced family law attorneys can help unmarried couples navigate the legal process of establishing paternity. We can provide guidance on DNA testing and court procedures, and assist with issues such as child custody, visitation, and child support that may arise as a result of paternity establishment..webp)
Child Custody
Our experienced family law attorneys can provide legal guidance and representation for unmarried couples in child custody matters. We can help clients negotiate a parenting plan that prioritizes the best interests of the child or children and ensure that our client's parental rights are upheld. Our attorneys can also represent clients in court to resolve disputes related to child custody..webp)
Child Support
Our family law attorneys can provide legal assistance to unmarried couples in matters related to child support. We can help clients establish and modify child support orders to meet the child's financial needs. We can also assist with the enforcement of child support orders and representation in court for child support disputes..webp)
Child Adoption
Unmarried couples in Spokane, WA who are seeking to adopt a child can rely on the legal services of our experienced family law attorneys. We can provide guidance on the adoption process, assist with the necessary legal paperwork, and represent clients in court to finalize the adoption.
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Contact Experienced Attorneys for Unmarried Cohabitation Legal Matters Today!
If you need legal assistance with unmarried cohabitation matters, don't hesitate to contact our attorneys at Hodgson Law Office today. We offer a free consultation and are ready to fight for your rights.
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Washington Family Law Regarding Unmarried Couples
Under Washington law, unmarried couples who are in a “committed intimate relationship” are subject to unique legal considerations that are different from married couples. While community property principles govern property division in divorce cases, they don't directly apply to unmarried cohabitants. However, Washington courts can apply community property principles by analogy to address issues regarding the rights of unmarried couples upon separation.
To determine whether a couple is in a committed, intimate relationship, the court considers factors such as continuous cohabitation, the length and purpose of the relationship, pooling of resources and services, and intent to marry in the future.
Legally enforceable agreements, such as cohabitation agreements, are crucial in protecting the rights of unmarried couples in a committed relationship. Our attorneys at Hodgson Law Office can provide legal guidance and representation for unmarried couples, including crafting comprehensive agreements and representing clients in court if necessary. Our goal is to ensure that our client's interests are protected and that they have a clear understanding of their legal rights and options.
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Factors to Consider When Evaluating a Committed, Intimate Relationship for Unmarried Couples in Washington State
To determine whether an unmarried couple is in a committed, intimate relationship, courts consider the following factors:
- - Continuous cohabitation
- - Length of the relationship
- - Purpose of the relationship
- - Whether resources and services have been pooled for joint projects
- - Intent to marry in the future
The rights of unmarried couples in a committed relationship are primarily determined by legally enforceable agreements. At Hodgson Law Office, we can assist you in creating a comprehensive agreement that reflects your interests and protects your rights. If needed, our responsibilities also mean that we can represent you in court.
Why Choose Hodgson Law Office as Your Lawyer for Unmarried Couples?
At Hodgson Law Office, we understand the unique legal challenges that unmarried couples and domestic partners face. Here are some reasons why you should choose our team for legal representation:
Free Consultations
We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options and how we can help.
Experience
Our attorneys have over 20 years of experience handling family law cases for unmarried couples and we understand the local procedures inside and out.
Individual Approach
We take an individual approach to each case, tailoring our strategies to meet the specific needs and goals of our clients.
Comprehensive Services
We offer a range of legal services, from negotiating and drafting cohabitation agreements to representation in court for disputes related to child custody, child support, and property division.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Spokane Family Lawyers for Unmarried Couples
Don't wait to protect your rights as an unmarried couple. Contact Hodgson Law Office today to schedule a free consultation with our family law attorneys in Spokane.
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Reviews from Our Clients
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I hired Mark Hodgson for a divorce in Spokane. He was open, friendly, and gave me great advice and counsel. Mark was honest with me about my case and worked hard to resolve all of my issues quickly. He responded to my phone calls and questions every time. He was WONDERFUL in my hearing and got me alimony, child support, and the parenting plan that my children needed. I had two other lawyers before Mark and he is far superior to my previous counsel. He fought hard for me and he knew the law. I would and will recommend him to everyone that i know.
Susan
These situations are never easy. Deciding to get a lawyer then choosing one was a very hard decision. I spoke to a few people that have been thru divorce and Mark’s name came up more than once. I went and met with him, his business partners and Casey his assistant. They were all friendly, professional and most importantly for me nonjudgmental. He is very educated on divorce with children and keeps in mind what is best for the kids! He answered my questions and didn’t make me feel belittled as other lawyers did. Thank you Mark Hodgson and team you are all very appreciated!
Tricia
Called Mark Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. He got us in that Friday the day after Thanksgiving. We decided to hire him and he made the time to start the process of paperwork that Sunday. It was great he did this so my wife and I didn’t have to miss work and our case was a time sensitive issue. The few times I’ve had to emailed him he seem to get right back to us with answers.
John
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our team
Meet Our Attorneys
Our team of experienced family law attorneys at Hodgson Law Office is dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation and personalized service to unmarried couples in Spokane, Washington.
- Attorney
Mark D. Hodgson
I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
Julie Harrington
Briana Gieri
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Mary Carter
Attorney
Mark D. Hodgson
I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
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Areas We Serve
Our Spokane Family Lawyers for Unmarried Couples Will Fight for You!
If you're dealing with legal issues related to unmarried couples in Washington State, our family law attorneys at Hodgson Law Office are here to help. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and create a personalized strategy to protect your rights. Contact us today and let us fight for you!
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FAQ
How many years do you have to live together for common law marriage in Washington?
Washington state does not recognize common law marriage. Therefore, there's no specific length of time that unmarried couples have to live together to be considered legally married. Instead, Washington courts recognize "committed intimate relationships" for legal matters related to unmarried couples.
Is Washington a community property state for committed intimate relationships?
Washington isn't a community property state for committed intimate relationships. However, the courts can apply community property principles by analogy to issues regarding the rights of unmarried couples upon their separation.
How do you prove a committed, intimate relationship in Washington State?
To prove a committed intimate relationship in Washington State, the following factors are considered: continuous cohabitation, the length of the relationship, the purpose of the relationship, whether resources and services have been pooled for joint projects, and an intent to marry in the future.