Magnuson Lowell Blog
Each week we post a blog about relevant legal issues. Glance through our various topics to learn more about a particular legal situation.
These articles are for limited informational purposes only and are not, nor are they intended to be, legal advice. You should not rely on this information for your case and should consult with an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation.
The legal process of divorce marks the end of a marriage, but it also marks the beginning of something else - your next chapter. Whether the decision to divorce was mutual or not, life after divorce often requires rebuilding routines, finances, and personal identity. For many, this period is a mix of relief, uncertainty, and opportunity.
At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we guide our clients not only through the divorce process but also toward a confident future. Here are some key areas to focus on as you transition into life after divorce.
Reassess and Rebuild Your Financial Life
Divorce can significantly change your financial situation. You may have a new budget, different income streams, and changed responsibilities. Start by taking stock of your post-divorce financial picture:
Establishing a strong financial foundation can bring a sense of control and security as you move forward.
Update Legal and Estate Planning Documents
Divorce often requires updates to several important legal documents. After your case is finalized, make sure you:
Failing to update these documents could unintentionally leave your former spouse with rights you didn’t intend.
Develop a Co-Parenting Strategy (If You Have Children)
If you have children, the end of your marriage doesn’t end your connection to your co-parent. While parenting after divorce can be challenging, a cooperative and consistent approach is best for your children’s well-being.
Tips for effective co-parenting include:
Every situation is different, and some co-parenting situations may not fit these types above. Finding a rhythm and working with your attorney to create a proper Parenting Plan is of the utmost important.
Prioritize Your Emotional Health
Divorce brings emotional strain, even in the most amicable cases. You may experience grief, anger, relief, or all the above. It’s important to give yourself time and space to heal.
Remember, you are not alone. Many people thrive after divorce with time and support.
Need Help Getting to the Next Chapter?
If you're in the middle of a divorce or considering filing, having the right legal team can ease your transition and protect your future. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we provide strategic, compassionate guidance throughout the divorce process and beyond.
We offer free telephone case evaluations. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey 425-800-0582
Cryptocurrency has grown from a niche investment into a mainstream asset class, and it's showing up more often in divorce cases. If you or your spouse owns Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other digital currencies, it’s important to understand how these assets are handled under Washington divorce law.
Like any other financial asset, cryptocurrency must be identified, valued, and divided fairly. But because it’s digital, volatile, and sometimes anonymous, dividing it can present unique challenges.
Is Cryptocurrency Considered Marital Property?
In Washington, a community property state, most assets acquired during the marriage are presumed to be jointly owned, regardless of who owns the asset. That includes cryptocurrency purchased with marital funds.
If one spouse acquired cryptocurrency before the marriage or using separate property, that portion may be considered separate. In that event, a proper tracing should be performed to ensure an accurate apportionment of marital property.
Challenges in Identifying Cryptocurrency Holdings
Unlike a traditional bank or investment account, cryptocurrency can be stored in digital wallets or on exchanges that may not be immediately visible during initial disclosures. If you suspect your spouse owns cryptocurrency but hasn’t disclosed it, your attorney can use formal discovery tools, such as:
Failing to disclose cryptocurrency holdings during a divorce can result in court sanctions.
How Is Cryptocurrency Valued in Divorce?
Cryptocurrency’s value is notoriously volatile, and prices can swing dramatically in a matter of hours or days. To deal with this, parties may:
The approach you take depends on the size of the holding, your financial goals, and your comfort with crypto investment risk.
Dividing Cryptocurrency: Equal Split or Offset?
There are two main ways to divide cryptocurrency in a divorce:
In either case, it’s important to document the division clearly in the final divorce decree to avoid future disputes.
Protect Yourself with Proper Documentation
To ensure a smooth division of cryptocurrency, it’s helpful to include in your divorce paperwork:
This level of detail can prevent confusion or conflict later on.
Work with a Washington Divorce Attorney Who Understands Digital Assets
Cryptocurrency is a relatively new issue in divorce, and not all attorneys are familiar with how to handle it properly. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we stay informed on evolving digital asset trends and help our clients navigate the legal and financial complexity of dividing crypto.
We offer free telephone case evaluations. Contact us today to discuss your divorce and how we can help protect your interests in the digital world.
Divorce is rarely straightforward, and when one spouse has a disability, the process can become even more complex - emotionally, legally, and financially. Whether the disability is physical, mental, or cognitive, it can impact everything from spousal support to property division and parenting plans. Understanding how disability factors into divorce can help you prepare for the unique challenges ahead.
Spousal Support May Play a Larger Role
In Washington, spousal maintenance (also called alimony) is determined based on one spouse’s need and the other’s ability to pay. When a disabled spouse is involved, courts often give additional weight to:
In many cases, spousal support awards may be higher or last longer than they would in a typical divorce to ensure the disabled spouse is not left financially vulnerable.
Dividing Property and Access to Benefits
Marital property is still subject to Washington’s community property laws, but disability-related assets and benefits may require special handling. Important issues to consider include:
An experienced divorce attorney can help ensure that dividing assets does not unintentionally disqualify a disabled spouse from receiving necessary benefits.
Parenting Plans and Custody Considerations
When children are involved, the court’s focus remains on the best interests of the child. A parent’s disability alone is not a reason to deny custody or visitation rights. However, the court will consider:
If necessary, parenting plans can be customized to provide extra support while preserving a strong parent-child relationship.
Negotiating with Compassion and Realism
Divorcing when disability or illness is involved often requires more patience, flexibility, and creativity in negotiations. Both spouses should focus on finding solutions that allow the disabled individual to maintain independence and dignity while fairly dividing shared responsibilities and resources.
Mediation or collaborative divorce may offer a less adversarial path, especially when both sides are willing to work together to craft practical and compassionate agreements.
Work with an Experienced Washington Divorce Attorney
If you or your spouse is disabled and considering divorce, it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the complex legal and financial issues involved. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we offer thoughtful, experienced representation for clients facing these challenges.
We offer free telephone case evaluations to help you understand your options and plan for the future with confidence. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help 425-800-0582