Family Law Blog

McKinley Irvin Blog

A little knowledge can go a long way to protect your assets and family relationships. Planning can save headaches and money, and can provide peace of mind. The articles and tips in this section of the McKinley Irvin website are intended to help you understand and prepare for some of the more common issues you’ll encounter in a divorce, child custody, or other family law matter.

Please be advised that family cases can be very complex. The information provided here should not be construed as legal advice in your case.

  • Common Issues in a High-Asset Divorce

    Common Issues in a High-Asset Divorce When a marriage ends, dividing assets and reaching a fair settlement can be challenging. But for couples with a high net worth, the stakes are even higher. A high-asset divorce is typically one where the combined value of the marital property exceeds a certain threshold, often around $5 million, though it can vary depending on location, types of assets, and specific circumstances. These divorces involve unique complexities that require careful consideration and strategic planning. Here's why high-asset divorces are different ...
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  • What to Know About Child Support & Taxes in Washington State

    What to Know About Child Support & Taxes in Washington State In Washington state, child support is designed to financially assist with raising children after separation or divorce. But how does it impact taxes? Child Support Is Not Taxable Child support is considered a transfer of resources between parents, not income for the receiving parent. This means the IRS doesn't see it as taxable income. The custodial parent can still claim the child as a dependent on their tax return. This can translate to tax benefits like the Child Tax Credit, offering additional financial support for ...
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  • McKinley Irvin in Forbes: Committed to Clients

    McKinley Irvin in Forbes: Committed to Clients McKinley Irvin appeared in the April 2024 issue of Forbes magazine “Fortune & Forbes” section. The interview featured McKinley Irvin CEO and founding partner Rita Herrera Irvin, and the firm’s innovative approach to family law. Read the article here:
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  • What to Do if Co-Parenting Isn’t Working

    What to Do if Co-Parenting Isn’t Working Co-parenting refers to a parenting situation where two parents work together to raise a child even though they are divorced, separated, or no longer living together. In an effective co-parenting setting, both parents maintain their responsibilities toward the child's upbringing, each playing an integral role despite their individual living circumstances or the nature of their personal relationship. The importance of successful co-parenting cannot be understated: it is crucial for a child's mental and emotional well-being. ...
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  • Two MI Partners Named AAML Fellows

    Two MI Partners Named AAML Fellows McKinley Irvin is proud to announce that partners Mark Arend and Brent Bohan are now fellows of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML). Established in 1962, the AAML is dedicated to fostering leadership that upholds the highest standards of professionalism and excellence within the practice of family law. Academy Fellows are selected based on their proficiency in negotiating and litigating matrimonial and family law matters, as well as their recognition among judges and peers as leading practitioners. Fellowship ...
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  • Invalidating Marriages in Washington

    Invalidating Marriages in Washington Understanding Marriage Validity Marriage validity refers to the legal recognition of a marital union in the eyes of the law. It is crucial for a marriage to be valid to ensure that both parties are afforded the legal rights and obligations that come with matrimony. Common misconceptions often stem from the misunderstanding that simply living together or having a religious ceremony without a legal civil contract constitutes a valid marriage. In reality, the precise requirements for a valid marriage vary from state to state ...
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  • Four Family Law Myths Debunked

    Four Family Law Myths Debunked Just like other areas of the law, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions among the general public regarding family law. When it comes to family law disputes, don’t rely on advice from friends, relatives, or co-workers. Instead, become familiar with the law by using a trusted source. Below, we debunk four common family law myths. Myth #1: Moms Are Always Awarded Custody of the Children One of the most widespread misconceptions about family law is that courts will generally side with the mother in child custody cases. The ...
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  • Partner Samuel Page Appointed as Commissioner Pro Tempore

    Partner Samuel Page Appointed as Commissioner Pro Tempore McKinley Irvin is pleased to announce that Tacoma Partner Samuel Page has been appointed as a Commissioner Pro Tempore in Pierce County Superior Court. As a Commissioner Pro Tempore, Sam will be called to preside over matters when a sitting Commissioner is unavailable. Candidates for this role are typically selected based on various criteria, including their depth of experience and knowledge, their adeptness in objectively interpreting legal matters, and their capacity to exhibit a judicious demeanor under pressure. Sam has ...
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  • Four Reasons Spouses Choose Legal Separation Over Divorce

    Four Reasons Spouses Choose Legal Separation Over Divorce Deciding to file for divorce or legal separation can be a difficult decision that carries serious legal implications for everyone involved. Although people sometimes assume that divorce is the only way out of a marriage they are no longer satisfied with, a legal separation can provide strong protection that is similar to divorce. In some scenarios, it’s actually advantageous if the couple chooses legal separation over divorce. Keep reading to find out why it might make more sense to legally separate from your spouse instead ...
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  • What Are the Most Commonly Cited Reasons for Divorce?

    What Are the Most Commonly Cited Reasons for Divorce? In the United States, the topic of divorce is one that has always garnered attention due to its prevalence and impact on families. According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the divorce rate in the U.S. is 2.5 per 1,000 population. Although this rate has seen a general decline over the past several decades, largely due to changes in societal norms and the increasing average age of first marriages, it's still a significant issue. Understanding the reasons behind these numbers can give us ...
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