What Are the Requirements to Divorce in Washington?

To qualify for divorce in Washington state, you or your spouse must be a resident of the state or a member of the armed forces stationed in Washington.

How Long Does a Divorce Take in Washington?

This will depend on the complexity of your divorce and whether you are disputing issues with your spouse. The more you dispute issues such as custody, spousal support or property division, the longer your divorce may take. The minimum waiting period for a Washington divorce is 90 days from the date your papers are filed and served.

Is Alimony Required in Every Divorce?

Alimony or spousal maintenance is awarded based on the unique factors of your marriage, such as income differences, earning ability of each spouse, and the duration of the marriage. Usually, longer marriages are more likely to be awarded spousal maintenance than a short marriage. Judges will evaluate each case’s specific circumstances.

Can I Withhold Visitation If the Other Parent Does Not Pay Child Support?

No. Child support and visitation are two separate issues. If you deny the other parent their visitation rights, you could be penalized for violating your visitation order. If the other parent is not paying child support, you can talk to an attorney about how to seek enforcement of your child support order. Under no circumstances should you block visitation, except in very extreme cases where you believe the child’s well-being is at risk.

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Attorney Since 1982

40+

Years Of Experiences

Get To Know Us

Welcome to the Law Office of Kevin G. Byrd Attorney & Counselor at Law

Free Consultation. Flat Fees. We do NOT charge by the hour. Our mission is to assist our clients to achieve the best possible outcome for their case. We will help you shape your goals and ensure your goals are reasonable. Additionally, we will aggressively pursue your goals and keep you well-informed of significant developments in your case every step of the way. We will utilize cutting-edge technology in order to develop the strength of your position in settlement negotiations.

Due to the serious and sensitive nature of your case, do not try to navigate through the complexities of the legal system without enlisting our supportive assistance. We would be proud to serve as your zealous and compassionate legal advocates. Our Pierce County family attorneys will treat you with the care and respect that you deserve while we pursue the most favorable case outcome possible. When you choose to work with our firm, you can rest assured that you will receive the personalized and effective legal solutions that you require at this time. Get in touch with our Lakewood Family law firm today to receive exceptional legal counsel.

FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY IN LAKEWOOD WA

Our Legal Practice Areas

Click one one of our many service to learn more.

CHILD SUPPORT

Although there are specific guidelines which are used by the courts to calculate child support payments, it can be complex to navigate on your own.

DIVORCE

Parenting is hard enough; the prospect of being a single parent? Tough. Going through a divorce too? We understand and are here to help.

CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY

In most cases, filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy stops collections and garnishments. Chapter 7 can also get your driver’s license back if the only reason it is suspended is because of an uninsured motor vehicle claim.

CHILD CUSTODY

It is critical that you understand the way that courtrooms and professionals approach these matters.

FAMILY LAW

Are you considering divorce? If so, we strongly suggest you retain the representation of our Lakewood divorce firm.

MODIFICATIONS

When you and your spouse get divorced, you typically have to meet to go over all of the most important issues and come to a mutual agreement.

Bankruptcy and Divorce Lawyer

Our divorce lawyer is able to offer seasoned legal counsel on everything from the divorce proceedings themselves through to issues such as child support, child custody, property division and similar matters in Puyallup WA, Fife WA, Lakewood WA, Sumner WA and Tacoma WA. We are able to take on cases at any point in the divorce process, doing our best to bring them to a prompt, mutually satisfactory outcome. Our military divorce attorney has particular experience in aiming for favorable divorce conclusions when one or both partners are serving in the military.

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer

Bankruptcy should never be entered into lightly and certainly not without appropriate legal support and representation. Our Chapter 7 Bankruptcy attorney can provide experienced assistance at every stage of the process, doing their best to ensure you end up with an outcome that’s right for your particular circumstances.

Kevin Byrd and associates are incredible! Very friendly, professional and competent. They get the job done! And what really amazed me is that you can call them at home seven days a week, so they are at your beck and call. Reasonable rates as well. Thank you Kevin and Rita for your caring and expert service. I recommend you to anyone who needs family law or bankruptcy. We truly appreciate you!
Paula Fiorino

Faq

Frequently Asked Question

What issues does a divorce lawyer handle?

A divorce lawyer handles the things that matter most when a marriage ends, dividing property, sorting out spousal support, and working through child custody arrangements. Kevin G. Byrd has worked with enough divorcing couples to know that no two situations are alike, and he approaches each case with that in mind.

What areas of law does Kevin G. Byrd specialize in?

Kevin G. Byrd is a bankruptcy lawyer, divorce lawyer, and military divorce attorney who also handles family law cases across Tacoma and nearby areas. If you are dealing with debt, a difficult family situation, or a divorce involving military service, his office is a reasonable first call.

Who qualifies for Chapter 7 bankruptcy?

Qualifying for Chapter 7 bankruptcy comes down to your income and expenses. If your income falls below Washington’s median or you pass the means test, you may be eligible. A chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney at Kevin G. Byrd’s office can look at your actual numbers and give you a straight answer.

How is child support calculated?

Washington uses both parents’ incomes, the number of overnights each parent has, and the child’s particular needs to calculate support. It sounds straightforward on paper, but the numbers can vary depending on your specific situation. Kevin G. Byrd walks clients through how child custody arrangements factor into the final figure.

Can a military spouse file for divorce anywhere?

Military divorce does not follow the same rules as a civilian divorce. You can generally file in the state where the service member is stationed, where they claim legal residency, or where the filing spouse currently lives. Kevin G. Byrd, military divorce attorney, helps military families determine which option works best for their circumstances before anything is filed.

What services are included under family law?

Family law touches some of the most personal decisions a person can face: divorce, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and adoption. Kevin G. Byrd has worked with families in Tacoma through all of these, and he knows that what looks like a legal matter on paper rarely feels that way to the people living it.

How is child custody decided?

Washington judges do not simply split time down the middle. They look at each parent’s real relationship with the child, where the child has been living, and who handles the everyday responsibilities like school pickups and doctor visits. Kevin G. Byrd helps parents show the court a clear, honest picture of their home life so the child custody decision reflects what actually works for the child.

Amethyst Rodriguez

★★★★★

I used this firm for my divorce. I’ve never used an attorney before & I was under such a high amount of stress & I was so anxious all the time. I feel bad if I was too much on them from how bad my anxiety was.The firm is really understanding about different events that happened during my divorce. The firm was also very nice & professional. I didn’t get too many updates about things & I asked a couple times about things, but again I never used an attorney before so I don’t have anyone to compare the firm to.Kevin himself is very kind. During the consultation he answered all my questions & was very patient. We didn’t talk much during the process.

Tyler McGlothlen

★★★★★

Awesome experience with Rita and the Kevin Byrd law firm. Very friendly staff and easy going. For a hard time in my life they made everything smooth and easy! 100 stars!

Chris Wilson

★★★★★

Kevin and his staff were very good! From Rita at the front office, to the supporting cast of Ali and Alexis was great. I would advise patience as they are a very busy office. Also, be organized as it only helps your case and makes things easier for them to manage. Kevin is very knowledgeable of family law and is very straight forward. In my dealings with him there's no sugar coating anything which I appreciate. This is important if you want a reasonable conclusion to your case. I found this very important to my own as it reaffirmed some of my positions and calibrated others to be truly in line with a favorable outcome.My case lasted over a year, and went to mediation where it was settled. The settlement was in line with the expectations Kevin and his office established. So, in my view I had a favorable outcome to my case.If you are organized, patient and appreciate zero bs counseling, I highly recommend Kevin and his office for your family law needs.

Samantha Stone

★★★★★

My case was a bit complicatedHe knew what I wanted and helped me get what I wanted and knew the background of the reason why when it came to the custody part of my divorce him and his staff were very helpful and understanding super sweet hands down the best lawyer in town.Thank you Kevin and staff for doing what you have done I greatly appreciate you all

Jaspal Jazz Singh

★★★★★

I had a great Experience to work with Kevin Team.I wonna say big thanks to Alexis Schmitt and Ali - they both are well experienced and very friendly.I highly recommend to everyone if anyone is looking to handle family matters. They are the right ones. They know exactly what they are doing.Alexis - again thank you so much for very clear conversation each and every time.From me 5 Star ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️Thanks Kevin G. Byrd

Lilian

★★★★★

Kevin Byrd has a free consultation, flat fee and low retainer and his office always returns phone calls. Kevin Byrd handled my grandparents case a few years ago and now he is taking care of my case. He is the best attorney for any situation and his staff is wonderful.

Charles Bliss

★★★★★

My wife and I had to file bankruptcy and Kevin and his team were incredibly supportive and communicative. We had no idea what we were doing and we had the privilege of sitting down with Rita and going over our options. After looking at where we were at we found that Chapter 7 was our best option. Rita and Alexis helped us gather everything and the staff educated us well. Having Kevin there with us when we spoke with the trustee gave us so much comfort and confidence. We are very grateful for him and his incredible team. I would highly recommend them to anyone that is looking for a bankruptcy attorney.

Piper Costello

★★★★★

Kevin assisted my husband and I with our chapter 7 bankruptcy. Rita was great walking us through everything and Alexis helped us get everything together. It was a painless process and we felt incredibly supported the whole way. I would recommend Kevin and his team to anyone that finds themself in need of filing bankruptcy.

nelson crisanto

★★★★★

I can't recommend the Kevin G. Byrd Law Firm highly enough! They represented me during one of the most challenging times in my life, and their support was invaluable. From my very first meeting, Kevin Byrd made it clear that he had my best interests at heart. His confidence and expertise shone through as he assured me that he could deliver the results I needed—and he absolutely did!I want to give special recognition to Ali Meuangkhot, Kevin’s senior paralegal. Ali was incredible throughout the process. She listened intently to my concerns, offered thoughtful advice, and guided me every step of the way. Whenever I felt anxious or overwhelmed, Ali was right there to calm me down. Her reassurance made all the difference, reminding me that everything would be okay.I am truly grateful for the entire team at Kevin G. Byrd Law Firm -Amber, Alexis, Rita, and everyone else who played a role in my case. Their dedication and professionalism were evident in every interaction. I wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding team to anyone seeking legal advice. They deserve a solid 10/10 for their incredible service! Thank you for everything!Nelson Crisanto

Michael Santos

★★★★★

This establishment and lawyer were great. very very helpful on my first day and willing to help answer any questions. Made me feel comfortable and reassured I was in good hands. I sat down with Mr.Byrd and he gave a positive attitude that everything will go smooth. Even with me leaving the country, they ensured to remain in constant communication and did what they said they would. Great place and definitely would recommend. They made my divorce happen with very little problems . Thank you

Lindsey Lawhon

★★★★★

I was in a bad spot when I called Kevin Byrds office. I was first dealing with Alexis and scheduled a consult and they were able to help me pretty quickly. Then it was the confusing paperwork. I had a really hard time getting them correct and Ali, the lead paralegal, went above and beyond to ask me the questions, take notes and fill them out for me. She kept me up to date and filled in on each step of the process. Then we decided to try to settle outside of court and Ali worked hard to come up with a game plan and execute. She did and we settled outside of court. It was nice to do that and for it to finally be over. They did a great job.

Kayla Johnson

★★★★★

I have been a client for 2 years and I have not been a very easy client to deal with but kevin and his team have been hands down the most amazing people to work with. I was referred by my mother who was very pleased with her services and I can say I'm very happy.

Kate Cimino

★★★★★

A friend of mine referred me to Kevin Byrd as he had previously represented her and won everything for her. My experience proved to be the same. The staff is amazing, helpful and professional. I would recommend to anyone who wants a SURE WIN.Free consultation, flat fee and low retainer. Where else can you find that?

Tyler Will

★★★★★

The law office of Kevin G. Byrd and his associates have been very helpful with my bankruptcy. They have gone above and beyond to make sure I was doing everything correctly and helping me understand all the steps to the process. They are great with communication. I highly recommend using them with your bankruptcy.

Honey Trout

★★★★★

You did a wonderful job especially since we had to put everything on hold do to my ex getting in a car accident and we had to put everything on hold until he recovered and then he wanted to hurry everything up once he was awake. You were patient and kind through it all.

Jeremy Crumpton

★★★★★

Thank you Kevin Byrd in my time of need! Going through a divorce is one of the most difficult things to navigate through especially when kids are involved. Kevin helped me win split custody with my kids when all odds were against me. Kevin was very knowledgeable and his experience and expertise led to a huge victory! Kevin was hired at a flat rate for trial and was not there to nickle and dime me. Money well invested! If you're looking for a family law attorney, look no further! Thank you again Kevin and team!

Ross Eastman

★★★★★

Kevin and his team have been very helpful as I try navigate through my divorce. I had a lot of anxiety when I first called but Rita the receptionist was very knowledgeable and knew what to say to calm me down. Ali and Alexis (paralegal & assistant) have also been very helpful and responsive, you can tell that they care and they will always make the time to help you. Kevin is seasoned, candid, and matter-of-fact, just the type of person you'd want representing you in a legal matter.

Erika Frank

★★★★★

Kevin Bird and his staff are exceptional! They were extremely thorough, and thoughtful through the whole process. My husband and I are grateful to your team and excited to start a new chapter in our lives after bankruptcy.

Mark Noble

★★★★★

Rita and the whole team there have been absolutely wonderful and so easy to work with. We will forever be grateful for the kindness we were shown during a very stressful time.Thank you Rita!

Bobby Green

★★★★★

I cannot say enough about the amazing team at this law firm. My attorney, Kevin Byrd, and senior paralegal, Ali Meuangkhot, truly went above and beyond to help me through a difficult and emotional time. From dealing with a ridiculous domestic violence protection order to navigating the complexities of a parenting plan and child support, they were there every step of the way.Their attention to detail and dedication to uncovering the truth was truly remarkable. They worked tirelessly to ensure that every piece of information was gathered and presented to the court. Thanks to their hard work, I was able to secure a fair custody arrangement and child support agreement.In addition to Kevin and Ali, Rita and Alexis were also incredibly helpful in my past bankruptcy case. The entire staff at this firm made me feel like part of their family, and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.To anyone considering working with this team, I urge you to ignore any negative reviews. From my personal experience, I can attest to the fact that they are dedicated to their clients and will do everything in their power to ensure a positive outcome. Look no further than Kevin Byrd and Ali Meuangkhot for a team that will truly go the distance for you. Rita and Alexis are also amazing assets to this firm.

Rianna D

★★★★☆

Getting divorced is not easy, especially when kids are involved but I cannot thank Ali and her team enough for riding it out with me and walking me through this process. If you ever find yourself needing legal advice, reach out to Kevin Byrd's office for help & fair pricing.

Solja Lang

★★★★★

This is the go to team to help you with your financial struggles. I was filing for Chapter 7 and Rita took the ease out of filing.She is very personable and will make you laugh. Working with Alexis and Rita both makes for a dynamic pair. The process goes smooth with these two at the helm. Alexis helped me stay on top of what documents were needed so I could get it done right away. This team is able to help and relate to you all at once. Kevin is a wonderful attorney helping me and I couldn’t have done anything without this team. Highly recommend them.

Summer Napier

★★★★★

Kevin and his associates have been the greatest team to have by my side during my Bankruptcy, they are understanding and make you feel at home. They let you make payments, they even allow you to call them at home even on the weekends. If a call is missed they are always returned.

Scott Finley

★★★★★

Kevin have me time to thoroughly explain my case, but Said he wasn't able to take the case because it wasn't the type of law that he practices. He then was kind enough to recommend someone else to me, who I ended up using. Thank you for all the help in a very difficult time of my life!

Jade

★★★★★

Kevin and his associates have been the greatest team to have by my side during my recent guardianship case. My case started as a simple guardianship hearing that quickly grew (due to matters out of our control) into a year-long ordeal. Although my case came with some heartaches before triumphs; I never felt like I was alone. Everyone in their office genuinely cared about the outcome of my case. Ali In particular always a phone call or email alway; I never waited long for responses, even if She did not have an answer for me at that very moment. She was there for my quick questions, there for my ideas & even there for a few venting sessions; to which I truly appreciated after the loss of my spouse. Although this was one of the most difficult times of my life, Kevin & Ali truly made this a strengthening experience for me; Due to their due diligence, attention to detail, willingness to act and passion put into the work.

Shannon Walker

★★★★★

Mr. Kevin G. Byrd and his legal team are professionals. I was confident in his experience as a lawyer and he represented me in an excellent manner to which I am grateful for. His staff were extremely helpful and supportive of me in my case as well. I highly recommend anyone that’s looking for a divorce attorney to visit their office. Mr. Byrd and his legal team should be highlighted as the best and number #1.

Mavaega F

★★★★★

If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney at a great price, then go to Mr. Byrd. He is the best family law attorney I have ever worked with. I highly recommend this law office! Ali, Rita, and Amber are the best! Miss Ali helped me and would check in with me to make sure I knew what was happening at all times. Their legal representation restored my faith in justice system. If you’re seeking legal help as a child custody client, call them today.

Marissa Delagarza

★★★★★

Kevin Byrd and his associates, Rita and Alexis are amazing. This was a great experience all things considered. They were professional, kind and timely. I’m excited to start on a new chapter thanks to their help.

Mavaega F

★★★★★

If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable attorney at a great price, then go to Mr. Byrd. Mr. Byrd is the best family law attorney I have ever worked with. I highly recommend this law office! Ali, Rita, and Amber are the best! Miss Ali helped me and would check in with me to make sure I knew what was happening at all times. Their legal representation restored my faith in justice system. If you’re seeking legal help as a child custody client, call them today.

Jane Ziegbe

★★★★★

Mr. Byrd was extremely helpful with my divorce. Although my husband was lying throughout the entire process, Byrd brought all of the evidence to court professionally and defended me entirely. It was amazing what he did for me, he took notes on everything that happened. He presented the case professionally and truthfully. I would recommend him to the entire world, he's an excellent lawyer.

Victor Beas

★★★★★

Everyone working in the office was curteous, professional, and ready to help me with everything I needed. I highly recommend Kevin and his team to assist you with your needs. They took an already stressful situation and made it as smooth as possible. Thank you again!

Bobby Green

★★★★★

Hi my name is Bobby and Kevin Byrd and his team is representing me in 2 court cases right now a dvpo and a parenting plan and him and his team is the best they work extra hard to get the truth heard and the job done right the first time I’m very grateful for his team they have went above and beyond everything I was expecting with out them I would not have been able to do that they have done and for that I’m thankful. If anyone is looking for a great lawyer and team to help you then go no farther Kevin Byrd and his team will go above and beyond for you just like they did for me.

Paula Fiorino

★★★★★

Kevin Byrd and associates are incredible! Very friendly, professional and competent. They get the job done! And what really amazed me is that you can call them at home seven days a week, so they are at your beck and call. Reasonable rates as well. Thank you Kevin and Rita for your caring and expert service. I recommend you to anyone who needs family law or bankruptcy. We truly appreciate you!

Porsche Oliver

★★★★★

I highly recommend this team KEVIN BYRD, AMBER, and RITA will get the job done for you. It was quick easy and painless. This team is one I really needed in my corner for Bankruptcy after my divorce. I can not thank this team enough therefor I felt my review was much needed.

Robert Garcia

★★★★★

Kevin Byrd & associates came highly recommended by 2 people i knew. I was in financial ruins needed help. called them and boy they were GREAT! set my mind at ease, walked me / explained the whole Chapter 7 bankruptcy… what was expecting from me and what they would do. they Jumped on my case made all the proper calls gathered all information. they were very efficient. very professional and they cared they cared about me in my situation I just was not a name. i’ve recommended them to several people and I will continue to recommend this firm. my chapter 7 bankruptcy was done in prompt time I got out of my financial hole got back on track in life thanks to them..

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lOW rETAINERS

Attorney Since 1982

40+

Years Of Experiences

Get To Know Us

Welcome to the Law Office of Kevin G. Byrd Attorney & Counselor at Law

FAMILY LAW ATTORNEY IN LAKEWOOD WA

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CHILD SUPPORT

DIVORCE

CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY

CHILD CUSTODY

FAMILY LAW

MODIFICATIONS

Bankruptcy and Divorce Lawyer

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer

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