What Happens to Your Pets in a Divorce?

For many families, pets are more than just animals, they're beloved members of the household. When a couple decides to divorce, the question of who keeps a pet can quickly become emotional and contentious. Unlike children, pets are considered personal property under Washington law, but that doesn't mean decisions about them are simple or without conflict.

If you're facing a divorce and wondering what happens to your dog, cat, or other pet, understanding your legal rights and options can help you navigate the situation more effectively.

Pets as Property in Washington State

Washington is a community property state, meaning most assets acquired during the marriage are split equally. This includes real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, and yes, pets. From a legal perspective, pets are considered personal property, which means the court are not required to look at their well-being the same way it does with children.

That said, courts are increasingly aware of the emotional bonds people share with their animals, and many judges are willing to consider those connections when deciding who should keep a pet.

How the Court Might Decide Pet Ownership

Because pets are treated as property, the court typically awards ownership of the pet to one spouse as part of the overall division of assets. When deciding who should receive the pet, the court may look at factors such as:

• Who primarily cared for the pet (feeding, walking, vet appointments)
  
  
• Who purchased or adopted the pet, and when
  
  
• Whether the pet was acquired before or during the marriage
  
  
• Which spouse has a more pet-friendly living situation post-divorce
  
  
• Whether the pet is attached to any children and how it might affect them

If the pet was clearly one spouse’s separate property (such as a pet brought into the marriage), that person is more likely to retain ownership.

Pet Custody Arrangements

While Washington law doesn’t formally recognize “pet custody,” some divorcing couples choose to create informal agreements outside of court. Much like a parenting plan for children, a pet-sharing arrangement can outline:

• A visitation schedule
  
  
• Which spouse covers vet bills or grooming expenses
  
  
• Pick-up and drop-off logistics
  
  
• Rules about pet care, diet, and travel

These agreements are most effective when both parties remain on civil terms and are committed to the pet’s well-being. Although not enforceable in the same way as a child custody order, these arrangements can help avoid future disputes. That being said, these types of arrangements are often discouraged because of their complexity and difficulty with enforcement.

What to Avoid During a Pet Dispute

As emotionally charged as the issue of pet ownership can be, it's important to stay calm and handle the matter through legal channels. Avoid taking actions that could harm your case, such as:

• Removing the pet without the other spouse’s knowledge or consent
  
  
• Neglecting or mistreating the pet during the divorce

Unreasonable behavior can negatively impact how the court views your credibility during the proceedings.

Planning Ahead with a Pet Agreement

If you're entering a marriage and already own a pet, or plan to adopt one together, you may want to consider a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement that includes provisions about pet ownership in the event of a divorce. These agreements can clarify expectations and reduce uncertainty later on.

Speak with a Washington Divorce Attorney

Deciding who keeps a pet after a divorce can be just as emotional as any other aspect of the process. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we understand how much your furry companions mean to you. Our family law attorneys will advocate for your interests and help you reach a resolution that considers both the law and your bond with your pet.

We offer free telephone case evaluations. Contact us today to discuss your divorce and how we can help protect what matters most 425-800-0572

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When going through a divorce, by agreement or other means, both spouses will typically fully disclose their assets and debts. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the rules. In some cases, one spouse may attempt to hide income, transfer funds, or undervalue property to avoid sharing it during divorce proceedings. If you suspect that your spouse is hiding assets, there are steps you can take to protect your financial interests.

Understand Why Hidden Assets Matter

Washington is a community property state, which generally means both spouses are entitled to an equal share of the assets acquired during the marriage. If one spouse hides assets, it can result in an unfair division, potentially depriving the other of their rightful share.

Courts take hidden assets seriously. If a judge finds that a spouse intentionally concealed property or funds, the dishonest party could face financial penalties or a less favorable outcome in the final property division.

Look for Red Flags

While not always easy to spot, there are signs that your spouse may be hiding assets, including:

• Sudden changes in spending or saving habits
  
  
• Unexplained withdrawals or wire transfers
  
  
• Missing financial statements or tax documents
  
  
• Overpaying creditors or the IRS (to receive a refund later)
  
  
• Transferring property to friends or relatives
• Claiming a business is suddenly losing money

If you notice these warning signs, it’s important to raise your concerns with your attorney as soon as possible.

Gather Financial Documents

Start collecting as much financial information as you can. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be to identify inconsistencies. Focus on:

• Bank account and credit card statements
  
  
• Tax returns for the past several years
  
  
• Pay stubs and income records
  
  
• Mortgage and loan documents
  
  
• Business financials, if applicable
  
  
• Investment and retirement account statements

These documents can help reveal unexplained transactions, hidden accounts, or transfers to third parties.

Request Formal Discovery

If voluntary disclosure is incomplete or suspicious, your attorney can use the discovery process to compel additional information. Tools available during discovery include:

• Interrogatories (written questions your spouse must answer under oath)
  
  
• Requests for production of documents
  
  
• Subpoenas for bank or business records
  
  
• Depositions (in-person questioning under oath)

Discovery allows you to gather detailed financial information and create a clearer picture of the marital estate.

Hire a Forensic Accountant

In complex or high-asset cases, a forensic accountant may be necessary. These financial professionals specialize in tracing money, identifying unusual transactions, and valuing hidden assets. Forensic accountants can be especially helpful when one spouse controls a closely held business or uses multiple accounts to obscure income.

Involve the Court if Necessary

If it becomes clear that your spouse is hiding assets, your attorney can request court intervention. A judge may order financial sanctions, award a greater share of property to the honest spouse, or reopen the case if hidden assets are discovered after the divorce is finalized. Courts do not look favorably on deception and often use their discretion to correct financial misconduct.

Protect Yourself During the Process

While it can be frustrating to suspect your spouse is hiding assets, it’s important to remain calm and strategic. Avoid confronting your spouse directly, especially if they are already being dishonest. Instead, work closely with your attorney to document your concerns and pursue the appropriate legal avenues.

Work with an Experienced Washington Divorce Attorney

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we understand how stressful and unfair it can feel when a spouse tries to manipulate the divorce process. Our experienced legal team can help you uncover hidden assets, protect your financial future, and fight for a fair resolution. We offer free telephone case evaluations, so contact us today to discuss your case and take the next step toward securing what you deserve.

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Divorce is rarely easy, but for couples with high levels of conflict, the process can feel overwhelming. Emotions often run high, making it difficult to communicate, compromise, or focus on the future. Despite the tension, many high-conflict couples still benefit from divorce mediation, which is a process that encourages resolution without the stress and cost of a trial.

At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we’ve helped many Washington couples navigate mediation, even in the most contentious cases. With the right preparation and mindset, mediation can lead to a more efficient, less emotionally draining divorce.

What Is Divorce Mediation?

Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process where divorcing spouses work with a neutral third-party mediator to resolve key issues, such as property division, parenting plans, and spousal support. Unlike a judge, the mediator doesn’t make decisions. Instead, they help guide both parties toward mutually acceptable solutions.

In high-conflict cases, mediation offers a more controlled environment, helping reduce confrontation and focusing on problem-solving.

Choose the Right Mediator

Not all mediators are the same. In high-conflict cases, it's important to select a mediator with experience managing emotionally charged disputes. Look for a professional who:

• Understands Washington family law
  
  
• Has a calm, assertive communication style
  
  
• Can keep both parties focused on the issues
  
  
• Uses structured mediation techniques to minimize conflict

Most mediators also offer virtual sessions, which can help reduce emotional intensity by allowing both parties to remain in separate locations.

Prepare With Your Attorney

Before mediation, meet with your attorney to discuss goals, boundaries, and deal-breakers. Your attorney can help you:

• Understand your rights and legal options
  
  
• Prioritize key issues (custody, finances, support)
  
  
• Create a plan for negotiation and compromise

Having a strategy in place makes it easier to stay focused during mediation, even when emotions flare.

Focus on the Future, Not the Past

It’s easy to fall into the trap of rehashing old arguments during mediation. While past behavior may feel relevant, mediation works best when both parties focus on practical solutions for the future.

Shift your mindset from "winning" the divorce to reaching an agreement that allows both parties to move forward with stability and peace.

Be Ready to Compromise

No one gets everything they want in a divorce. Successful mediation requires both parties to make concessions. Identify the issues where you're willing to compromise and those that are most important to you. Flexibility on smaller items often leads to better outcomes on major decisions.

Know When Mediation Isn’t Working

Mediation is a valuable tool, but it’s not right for every situation. If one party refuses to participate in good faith, hides assets, or engages in abusive behavior, your attorney may recommend ending mediation and pursuing court intervention. Your safety and legal rights should always come first.

Get Help from an Experienced Divorce Attorney

Even in mediation, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is essential. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we help high-conflict clients prepare for mediation, understand their legal rights, and reach agreements that serve their long-term interests. We offer free telephone case evaluations, so contact us today to discuss your situation and whether mediation is right for you.

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