A New Year

Historically a busy month for family law, this January promises even more activity as the State and local counties grapple with budget deficits. Parties and practitioners can expect expanded user fees. In King County new fees and procedures take effect today. Other Superior Courts can't be far behind.

In Olympia where the legislative session commences January 12, a flurry of legislative proposals affecting family law are expected. Already filed is SB 5013 which would authorize local Superior Court Clerks to raise fees.

On the judicial front, the December 29th Division One opinion in Krieger v. Walker, dealing with setting support when combined net monthly incomes exceed $7000, held that there is no authority that requires a showing of extraordinary need to award support above the advisory amount.

If you're interested in reading more about child support in Washington and possible future changes, take a look at the December 2008 Final Report of the Washington State Child Support Workgroup This report with its series of recommendations will undoubtedly influence legislators as they decide whether to amend existing standards and procedures.

More information about these and other topics is available by subscribing to one or both of the Washington Family Law Reporter and the WFLR Update.