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Dellino Law Group
Seattle Family Law & Criminal Defense when you need it. (206-659-6839). dellinolaw.com
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For us, there is no better way. Our team thrives on seeing our clients and each other succeed. How do you find your positivity?
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Gratitude: We are grateful for the clients who trust us to tell their stories and stand beside them. It takes courage to make changes, to be uncomfortable, and to do what you think you cannot. Every time we work with a client, we recognize the human side of what they face, the strength it takes, and are grateful for the chance to help.
What are you grateful for?
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September is Self Improvement Month. It is time to take action. Small steps every day lead to big results. You can do this!
#september#self improvement#self care#you got this#self improvement month#take action#positive vibes#positive change
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WHAT IS A CR2A? DO I WANT ONE?
If you are going through a divorce in Washington state, you may have heard the term “CR2A.” You may have been asked if you have a CR2A in place or if you will be getting one – but what is it? Is it important to have? Why does it matter?
A CR2A agreement gets its name from the court rule that authorizes it: WA Superior Court Civil Rule 2A. This rule essentially governs enforceable agreements made outside of court and has different utility for many different types of cases addressed in Washington state's Superior Court.
For a family law case, such as a divorce proceeding, a CR2A agreement refers to a contract between parties to settle the issues of their case. In many divorce cases, this tool is used in the resolution of the dissolution, either at the conclusion of a mediation or settlement conference, in order to ensure the agreement will be honored by the court. If both parties and/or their attorneys sign the CR2A agreement, the terms become enforceable in court, whereas without signatures, it will not uphold in court as a binding agreement.
A CR2A agreement can also be used to memorialize other agreements in the middle of your case, or in post-divorce or other family law cases. The bottom line is that a CR2A agreement, while not the only option, is an effective way to bind both parties to terms of an agreement quickly and efficiently without needing to enter an agreement with the court because once signed, it is usually enforceable.
Your family law attorney should be working closely with you to resolve your divorce or other family law case in a way that minimizes stress and conflict as much as possible and maximizes efficiency. The aim is to resolve your case with a settlement agreement, in mediation or sooner, and prevent the added expense and emotional toll of trial whenever possible. The CR2A agreement is a useful tool in contributing to this being successful.
Do I want one?
The short answer is YES, you likely do want a CR2A. The intention is to prevent one party from “changing their mind” after a settlement agreement is reached by ensuring the terms of the agreement are honored by the court. The hope is to bring closure and resolution to an already challenging and emotionally charged situation, and to bring finality to compromises made. CR2A agreements are enforceable just as final court orders are.
You may have a cordial relationship with your ex-spouse, and perhaps you have come to a verbal or informally written or emailed agreement about the terms of your divorce, custody situation, or child support. You may assume this is fine because everyone is abiding by the terms and nothing has been contentious.
The problem is, there is no predicting when things may change, despite everyone's best intentions. We advise you to ensure that you are protected and that your best interests are preserved. These informal “promises” put you in rocky territory and are not in your best interest. Without a CR2A agreement, whatever loose deal you had with your ex-spouse can be pulled at anytime, regardless of what adverse effect it may have on you and/or your children. The terms of your agreement are not binding and not enforceable by the court without a signed CR2A agreement that spells out those terms.
Legal Representation
Please work closely with a skilled family law attorney who can advise you appropriately and advocate on your behalf. There may be “gray area” questions that arise, such as whether an agreement signed in your living room on scratch paper would suffice, or what about an email train where it appears you are on the same page? Our family law attorneys are highly knowledgeable in this area. We will work with you from the onset to ensure your interests are best protected, or we will advise appropriately and determine the best path forward if there are questions about a prior agreement that was informally reached. We are here to help.
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DIVORCE FOR IT/TECH PROFESSIONALS
Original blog here: http://tiny.cc/TechDivorce
Dissolving a marriage is complex in a way that comes with lasting financial and emotional impacts. Tech professionals have additional distinct challenges and considerations when facing divorce that others do not. If you are a tech professional and in the early stages of considering divorce, it is critical to work closely with a family law attorney familiar with the compensation structure unique to IT professionals. The following are topic areas that warrant significant consideration and attention, often specific to those in IT:
RSU (Restricted Stock Units) have no tangible value until vesting is complete but do give an employee valuable interest in company stock. You may wonder how RSUs are divided in divorce when they haven't yet been vested. This is critical to understand and discuss with counsel. You need to know what exposure you have in a divorce, how best to protect your assets, and what is subject to division.
IPO (Initial Public Offering) refers to the process a of private corporation offering shares to the public in a new stock issuance. If a company you own stock in goes public or is expected to go public, an IPO is very important to take into account because it plays an extremely significant role in determining net worth.
Can an influx of wealth lead to divorce? It is widely known that financial struggles are commonly cited as a reason for divorce, but what about when a couple has a sudden significant increase in wealth?Opinions vary here, but many family law attorneys notice that when people have the means to divorce they are more likely to do so. Some say divorces are more likely to occur after an IPO, because spouses feel less financially dependent on each other and freer to make the break one partner may have been thinking of making. Others say there is no correlation and suggest that a sudden cash flow may help to stabilize a struggling marriage. This all depends on the individual relationship! An IPO or stock grant is also cause for consideration of pre or post-nuptial agreement or cohabitation agreement for unmarried partners, if there is not one in place. This can help alleviate significant questions about asset division in the case on a divorce involving IT professionals.
Timing: When it comes to divorce and looking toward division of community property, timing can be especially important for tech professionals. This is due to the way various variables may have significant impact on the calculation of assets. Here are some examples:
Either the employee spouse or the non-employee spouse may strategically want to wait to file for divorce until an IPO occurs if a company is expected to go public, depending on what is predicted to happen with the stock upon IPO.
If a spouse is up for a big promotion or expected to relocate to a higher paying position in the tech world, timing may play a role in when one chooses to file for divorce. Conversely, timing may play a role whether it be before or after relocation or promotion, in determining assets for division.
Timing also comes into play around bonuses, in terms of determining whether the employee's bonus is considered community property. The reason for the bonus factors in as well, whether it is delayed compensation, bonus for a job well done prior to separation or if it is incentive for the year ahead after a couple is already separated. These are among the multiple complex factors that would help determine if/how a bonus would be divided among divorcing spouses.
A time-weighted formula is used to help determine the community vs separate portions of RSUs, making it not a simple answer and highlighting the need to work closely with a skillful family law attorney around these complex questions. There are a number of issues to consider for anyone who is embarking on a “high asset divorce” process but for tech professionals, these specific considerations are among some of the important aspects of divorce IT professionals need to work through with skilled legal counsel.
Legal Representation
Our family law attorneys at Dellino Law Group are very experienced in working with tech professionals. We provide high quality legal representation in IT divorce and high asset divorce cases. Strong advocacy and complex strategizing are where we excel. We have the expertise and resources to help you reach the best possible outcome in your case. We recognize the high-stakes and complex nature of this type of divorce process. Your protection and best interests are our priority.
#seattle#amazon#microsoft#technology#divorce#separation#family law#law#seattle attorney#prenuptial agreement#postnuptial agreement#cohabitation agreement#blog
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When you are looking up “Divorce” on the internet, there are many terms, approaches, and facts flying at you. “Collaborative,” sounds good. “Cooperative” sounds good, too! You want low stress. You do not want to fight with your soon to be ex-spouse any more than you already have been. Will this work for you? What does it even mean?
When you are looking up “Divorce” on the internet, there are many terms, approaches, and facts flying at you. “Collaborative,” sounds good. “Cooperative” sounds good, too! You want low stress. You do not want to fight with your soon to be ex-spouse any more than you already have been.
Ending a legal marriage is sure to have lasting impact on you, both financially and emotionally. Divorce is stressful. There are financial matters to resolve and potentially parenting and/or support issues as well. Each situation is different and there is certainly a wide range in terms of complexity and level of conflict when it comes to divorce.
The terms “collaborative divorce” and “cooperative divorce” sound similar. You may be wondering if one of these options could work for you in order to dissolve your marriage in a lower-conflict, potentially cost-effective way.
It is important to understand what each of these options entails as you determine the best way to proceed. Please work closely with a skillful family law attorney to learn more about your options, taking into account the unique variables of your case, and to guide you through to reach the best possible outcome.
What is Collaborative Divorce?
In a Collaborative Divorce, divorcing spouses and their attorneys sign a Participation Agreement to negotiate the entire process without filing any motions with the court and without threatening to do so. They agree to mediate and negotiate everything in “good faith”, with full disclosure, honest collaboration, and without litigation. Generally, in a Collaborative Divorce agreement, attorneys sign and commit that they will withdraw and not participate in litigation if a settlement is not able to be reached and the case does go to court.
The intention with Collaborative Divorce is to minimize stress. The thought is that litigation and court proceedings would add undue stress to the already emotionally and financially challenging process of divorce. Proponents of Collaborative Divorce emphasize that avoiding court altogether will keep stress and costs at a minimum. While this is ideal in theory, it is often not realistic in practice for everyone.
Each spouse works with a separate attorney to guide them through the process and assist them in negotiating an acceptable settlement agreement. Meetings are held regularly to discuss settlement with the other spouse and their attorney. Other professionals may be a part of these meetings, as appropriate, such as mental health providers, financial advisors, or child custody specialists. If you are able to come to a mutual agreement, family court judge will have brief involvement in order to sign the agreement and that will be the extent of court involvement.
If you are not able to come to a mutual agreement and if you determine you would like to proceed with litigation afterall, you will need to start divorce proceedings over with new counsel. Your attorney has signed agreement to withdraw from the case should this happen, and you will need to find a new family law attorney to represent you.
What is Cooperative Divorce?
In a Cooperative Divorce the goals are similar, but there are some key differences that distinguish the two. In a Cooperative Divorce, parties do commit to working together in a reasonable way to negotiate and reach a mutual agreement. Alongside their attorneys, divorcing spouses seek to work in a way that minimizes conflict, toward a settlement that will be acceptable to both parties.
The primary difference is that in Cooperative Divorce, the door is left open that they may proceed to litigation if it becomes necessary. Neither party is prevented from filing for litigation to resolve challenges that may arise. Proponents of Cooperative Divorce suggest that you are best suited to leave this option available to you. The goal will still be to avoid litigation and resolve your case through peaceful negotiation and mediation, but if things don't go quite as you had hoped, your attorney can continue represent you through the next stages of the process. There is no telling how dynamics may shift, despite best intentions, and you may require the assistance of the court process in order to protect yourself and your best interests. You also may not want to participate in meetings with your spouse, which makes cooperative divorce a healthy option for giving space during this process while not necessarily fighting.
Legal Representation
It is a common misconception that when attorneys are involved, everything escalates and becomes more contentious and argumentative than it needs to be. It is important to understand that it is the desire of all good family law attorneys to resolve your divorce case in a way that minimizes stress and conflict as much as possible.
We are here to assist you in sorting through the unique aspects of your case and in weighing the pros and cons of all options, and we will support your chosen path forward. Our firm works to minimize conflict and protect our clients' best interests in each and every case. If you are contemplating divorce and have questions about the available options for moving forward, please give us a call today. We are here to help.
#divorce#family law#law#seattle attorney#seattle#separation#collaboration#cooperation#blog#news#resource
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😴 Who else thinks this weekend went by way too quickly?
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Beautiful day, beautiful season. How are you making the most out of your summer?
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It’s Thankful Thursday! 🥰 Tag a friend you’re grateful for and spread positivity!
#spread joy#build community#thoughtful thursday#thankful thursday#almost friday#gratitude#thank you#grateful
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We can help. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation: 206-659-6839 ☎️
#fresh start#divorce#protection order#separation#child custody#dui#criminal defense#criminal defense attorney#seattle#seattle attorney#family law#family#law#prenuptial agreement#consultation#call#confidential#schedule
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8 STEPS TO HELP YOU THRIVE POST-DIVORCE
Written by Melissa Rosenberg
Dellino Law Group has strong commitment to empowering our clients, many of whom are amid significant life crises. Whether it be a messy divorce, an escape from an abusive relationship, or an ugly child custody battle, we are here. It is part of our mission to assist you in moving into your next chapter with hope and optimism. We believe your best life is ahead of you and we are here to help you find it.
Each individual's experience is intrinsically unique and there are many more factors and variables to take into account based on each person's individual and complex picture. No matter what the circumstances, divorce is complicated. Ending a partnership that you hoped would last forever is logistically challenging and emotionally painful. Here we share some of our tips on how to take steps to not just survive but thrive post-divorce or separation.
1 – Allow Time to Grieve
Divorce represents a significant loss and you need to take the time to grieve. When two people decide to make a life-long commitment, this is not the outcome they are planning for. Even if the divorce is your idea, if the relationship was negative or undesirable, or if you know you'll be better off for the split, the divorce is still a loss of some type. It is the ending of a relationship and a lifestyle you've known.
Make space for your emotions as they relate to grief. Remember that emotions can be very uncomfortable, but they are normal and necessary, and not permanent. Don't dwell on them but allow for them. You may experience shock, regret, or guilt. You may feel angry, resentful, or fearful. You may feel lonely, sad, and heartbroken. Allow yourself the space and time to work through the natural emotional experience that comes your way.
2 – Practice Self Care
Part of taking care of yourself is allowing for and attending to your emotions, as described in #1. Alongside the grieving process, this is also the time to find other ways to take care of yourself and your personal wellness. Pull from your self-care toolbox and do what makes you feel good. If your toolbox is empty, it is time to develop and practice some new self-care strategies. Exercise! Exercise is proven to have a direct positive impact on mood by boosting endorphin production, so its a great time to get your body moving. Go for a walk, take baths, attend a yoga class, listen to music that feeds your soul. Get a massage or a haircut or buy some new shoes. Binge-watch a Netflix series and then get out for a hike with a beautiful view. Try journaling or sketching. If nothing feels like it will be helpful, try something anyway. You never know what help alleviate painful emotion, or even bring a moment of serenity.
3 – Enlist Social Support
Surround yourself with people who are positive, non-judgmental, and supportive of you. Determine who in your social support network you can cry with or talk with and keep those numbers close. This is the time to pick up the phone and ask for help when you need it. Resist the urge to isolate and allow your loved ones to be there for you, just as you would for them. If you are having a hard time getting out of the house, ask a trusted friend to help hold you accountable. If you need someone to sit with your kids so you can get out and de-stress, enlist your supports. Ask your friends to help keep you in check regarding backward behavior, such as social media slandering or drunk dialing. If your social support network is limited, or in addition to existing social supports, consider joining a support group for divorcing women. It may feel validating and comforting to connect with women enduring similar experiences.
4 – Enlist Professional Support
With divorce comes inevitable lifestyle shift and you should not try to tackle it all of these changes alone. We recommend you utilize professional support in several different areas in order to reach the most optimal outcome and ultimately thrive post-divorce.
-Family Law Attorney: First and foremost, be sure you are working with an experienced, trustworthy family law attorney. Divorce is complicated – even when it is not complicated, and you should be properly advised and represented in order to reach the best possible outcome. There are inevitable challenging emotions and relationship dynamics at play, and it is essential you work with an experienced professional to manage the legal aspects of the situation, so as not to further complicate things or bring on additional stress.
-Therapy: Divorce is among the most stressful life experiences one can encounter and you deserve to feel supported. In addition to leaning on trustworthy friends and family, it can be immensely helpful to work with a trained mental health professional during this time. Work with an experienced therapist to process your emotions and refine old/develop new ways of coping with stress. Utilize therapeutic support in dealing with the emotional aspects of your situation so you can find clarity on how to manage the logistical and practical aspects. Use this space to help reconnect with yourself and for setting and embarking on a plan to move forward into your new life.
-Financial Planning: Please see #5. We recommend you consider working with a financial planner or accountant to determine your best path forward and to develop a financial plan that maximizes your best interests. Your attorney should have referrals that will be part of the divorce process and will help you with settlement and reaching your new financial goals after divorce.
5 – Develop a Financial Plan
Each person's situation is completely different, but it is likely there will be some shift in your financial situation following a divorce. Maybe your economic level takes a real hit and you need to determine how to live off a tighter budget, or maybe you find yourself with a lot more disposable income and aren't sure the best way to manage or invest the new funds. You may have significant assets to divide or you may be dealing with the division of debt. Either way, we recommend you consider working with a financial planner to determine your best path forward, both in the short and long term. Once again, emotions are generally heightened during this time, and it is useful to have an outside professional who specializes in this area to properly advise you. It is also important to take stock of your new budget and determine what lifestyle changes you may need to make in order to adjust.
6 – Get to Know Yourself Again
You have an important opportunity to re-connect with yourself. The ending of a major life role often leaves people with thoughts and questions about sense of self. Rediscover who you used to be prior to or separate from your marriage and reconnect with that self. Take a self-inventory and think about what you value most about yourself, including aspects of yourself that may have grown or evolved during the time you were married.
Examine the ways you would like to continue to change and grow. We are all works in progress with constant opportunity to become better versions of ourselves. This is a new start and a great opportunity for growth and betterment. Discover a new side of yourself. Find a new hobby or passion. Seek out new life-enriching experiences that bring hope or optimism as you look ahead in this next chapter.
7 – Embrace Singlehood
As you re-connect with yourself and develop and discover who you are, be sure to take the time to embrace and enjoy being single. Celebrate this new path. Revel in solitude or quiet space. Do something you may not have done or go somewhere you may not have gone when you were married. You may be single for a brief time, or maybe you'll stay single for years to come. However long it may be, embrace where you are. It may sound cliché, but this is literally the beginning of the rest of your life and that can be an exciting place to be if you let it!
8 – Moving Forward
Only you can determine your best path forward. Moving forward involves a bit of letting go and significant embracing of change. Dating or finding a new partner may be the last thing on your mind or you may feel anxious to get back in the game. You will likely get all kinds of advice about how soon is “too soon” to start dating again. You may be told “you should be single for at least x months or years before getting back out there.” There is no doubt time can have great healing powers, but there is no post-divorce handbook with all the right answers. Once again, each person's situation is unique and what may be right for someone else is not necessarily what is right for you.
Moving forward may eventually include dating, sex, or new relationships, or it may include none of these. Moving forward may include renewed or improved connections with family or friends. We recommend you do take the time to walk through the above steps in helping you determine your healthiest path forward, but the timeline is fully up to you and can only be informed by your experience and your personal emotional readiness.
You can and you will get through this. We are here to help.
#divorce#child custody#parenting plan#mental health#single life#self care#support#family#family law#move forward#blog
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Happy Friday! Any plans this weekend?
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QOTD: Are you enjoying the hot weather? ☀️☀️☀️
#build community#thoughtful thursday#qotd#almost friday#whats on your mind#thursday thoughts#seattle#summer
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We’re here for you. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation: 206-659-6839 ☎️
#fresh start#divorce#protection order#separation#child custody#dui#criminal defense#criminal defense attorney#seattle#seattle attorney#family law#family#law#prenuptial agreement#consultation#call#confidential#schedule
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Meet the Staff: Pets Edition! Meet Lemon! 🍋 Megan, our amazing Project & Client Service Manager cares for this pup, and is specially featured as her favorite Thanksgiving guest!
Hobbies include: Sleeping and stealing food from toddlers 🍕
Megan says 🍋 is a bit too lazy for hiking but she’ll go along with it!
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How are you staying motivated this week?
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