Law Offices of Blake Fulton Quackenbush

Washington state requires a minimum 90-day waiting period from the date the petition is filed and served before a divorce can be finalized. Uncontested divorces may be completed shortly after the waiting period, while contested cases involving disputes over child custody, property division, or spousal support can take six months to over a year depending on complexity.

First, call 911 and seek medical attention for any injuries. Move to a safe location if possible and document the scene with photos, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel fine — some injuries have delayed symptoms. Then contact a personal injury attorney before speaking with insurance adjusters to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Washington courts use a "parenting plan" system rather than traditional custody orders. The court determines residential schedules and decision-making authority based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent's relationship with the child, the child's emotional and developmental needs, each parent's ability to provide a stable environment, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

DUI penalties in Washington are serious even for a first offense. A first DUI conviction can result in up to 364 days in jail, fines ranging from $990 to $5,000, a 90-day license suspension, and mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Penalties increase significantly for higher BAC levels, repeat offenses, and DUI with minors in the vehicle. An experienced defense attorney can help challenge the evidence and protect your rights.

Yes, Washington is one of nine community property states. This means that most property and debts acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned and are subject to equal division upon divorce. However, property owned before the marriage, gifts, and inheritances are generally considered separate property. The court has broad discretion to divide property in a manner that is "just and equitable," which does not always mean a 50/50 split.

Most personal injury attorneys, including ours, work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we win your case. The fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict, so there is no financial risk to you for pursuing your claim. We also offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case and discuss your options.