Child Support
In Seattle

What Is Child Support? Child support is a financial obligation designed to assist in covering the costs of raising a child after a separation or divorce. Washington courts determine the amount based on state guidelines, which consider each parent’s income, the number of children, and other relevant factors.

How Is It Calculated? Washington follows a standard formula to calculate child support, which includes both parents’ incomes, health insurance costs, and any special needs the child may have. The court ensures that the child’s needs are met, regardless of which parent has primary custody.

• Shared Parenting: If parents share custody equally, support payments may be adjusted accordingly.
• Modifications: Child support orders can be modified if circumstances change significantly, such as income shifts or changes in the child’s needs.

Enforcement of Child Support Washington takes child support enforcement seriously. If a parent fails to pay, the state can take various actions, such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even license suspension. Parents facing difficulty with payments should seek modifications rather than letting payments lapse.

Spousal Support (Alimony)
In Seattle

Spousal support, also known as alimony, is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other after a divorce. The goal is to help the lower-earning spouse maintain a standard of living similar to what was enjoyed during the marriage.

Types of Spousal Support Washington recognizes several types of spousal support:

• Temporary Support: Granted during the divorce process to help the lower-earning spouse cover living expenses.
• Short-Term Support: Typically awarded to help the spouse gain skills or education needed to become financially independent.
• Long-Term Support: In cases where one spouse may never become self-sufficient due to age, health, or other factors, long-term or even permanent support may be awarded.

How Is It Determined? Unlike child support, there is no set formula for calculating spousal support in Washington. Instead, courts consider several factors, including:

• Length of the marriage
• Each spouse’s financial situation
• Age and health of both spouses
• The standard of living established during the marriage
• Contributions to the household, including raising children or supporting the other spouse’s career

Modifying or Ending Spousal Support Spousal support can be modified if either spouse’s financial situation changes. Additionally, support typically ends when the recipient remarries, unless otherwise specified in the court order.