Snohomish County Divorce Lawyer
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Dividing property when a marriage breaks up is never easy. However, during challenging economic times it is even more difficult. At my Everett law firm, I help clients get through the property division process, employing creative strategies that protect my client's finances as much as possible.
Examples of Marital Property
I am family law attorney Ululani Akiona. Focusing on divorce and related matters, I assist clients with the division of assets in accordance with Washington law. This state is a community property state, which means that assets acquired during the marriage are to be divided fairly and equitably. These assets can include:
- Real estate, including land, houses and vacation homes
- Other property such as cars, boats, recreational equipment, jewelry and antiques
- Pensions, 401(k)s and other retirement plans
- Bank accounts
If assets such as these and others were acquired during the marriage, they are subject to property division during divorce.
Identification and Valuation of Assets
The first step in the process is to identify all marital assets. This can be more difficult than one might expect; for example, if one spouse owned a business both before and during the marriage, what determines the portion of the business that is considered marital property? I can help clients answer questions related to specific property division scenarios in Washington state.
The second step is to value all the property identified as community property. In some instances, this requires consultation with appraisers and other experts to arrive at the correct value. In all cases, it is important for clients to assemble all relevant documents related to their property such as bank statements, mortgage payment stubs, IRA statements and other documentation that can shed light on the worth of the asset.
Challenges in Property Division
In challenging economic times, it may be difficult to sell real estate to comply with the requirements of the law. I have helped clients develop agreements that hold the marital home for later sale. Clients sometimes ask whether they should file bankruptcy and, if so, whether the best time to do this is before, during or after the divorce is finalized. I advise clients about Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy and help them understand their options.
Contact an Everett Property Division Lawyer
Call 425-740-2209, toll free at 888-298-1003, or contact me online to schedule an appointment with a Snohomish County asset division lawyer. The office is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Everett, close to the Snohomish County Superior Courthouse.
We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.
Akiona Law, P.L.L.C.
3216 Wetmore Avenue, Suite 203
Everett, WA 98201
Phone: 425-740-2209
Toll Free: 888-298-1003
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