When divorce or separation is on the table, you need a lawyer who is ready to go to court if necessary—not just negotiate. The divorce lawyers at Story Law in Bellevue, WA provide clear advice, strong litigation strategy, and practical guidance on settlement options such as collaborative law, mediation, and arbitration.
Some cases simply cannot be resolved around a conference table. When your rights, your children, or your financial security are at risk, Story Law is prepared to file in court, seek temporary orders, present evidence, and advocate for you before a judge. We explain likely outcomes, build a focused case plan, and keep you informed at each stage so you understand what the court can realistically do for you.
In a collaborative divorce, each spouse hires a collaboratively trained family law attorney and signs an agreement committing to resolve the case without court motions or trial. Meetings are focused, confidential, and aimed at practical solutions for parenting, support, and property division.
Mediation and arbitration are additional tools to resolve disputes outside a full trial. In mediation, a neutral mediator helps both sides work toward an agreement, while your Story Law attorney advises you and negotiates on your behalf. In arbitration, a neutral decision-maker hears both sides and issues a binding decision—similar to a private judge.
In Washington, both divorce and legal separation address the same core issues—property and debt division, spousal maintenance, child custody, and child support. The difference is the legal status of your marriage at the end of the case. A divorce ends the marriage and allows you to remarry. A legal separation keeps the marriage intact while still putting enforceable court orders in place, which can be important for insurance, benefits, or personal reasons.
If you are considering divorce or legal separation, getting advice early can protect your options. A consultation with a Story Law divorce lawyer gives you a clear view of the litigation process and the settlement paths available—collaborative law, mediation, or arbitration—and how each might affect your children, property, and long-term plans.
Use the form on this page or contact our Bellevue office to schedule a confidential consultation.
(425) 688-1159
