Bringing Over 20 Years Of Combined Experience
To The Legal Battlefield.

Photo of Attorneys Dennis Schroader and Patti Steele

We’ll Help You Find The Right Legal Solution To Your Family Law Issue

If you are going through a divorce or custody dispute, you know what an emotional rollercoaster these events can be. The right attorney can help you keep an even keel by guiding you through the difficult legal battles you face. Even if your matter is uncontested, your lawyer can make sure you understand the implications of the many decisions you must make and guide you through the process.

At Schroader, Steele & Associates, we are committed to helping families through the battlefield of courts and litigation during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Whether it’s a simple dissolution of marriage or a more complex situation involving custody or property division, our attorneys can help protect the best interests of you and your family.

Experience In All Aspects Of Family Law

Every family is unique, which means that every family law case requires a legal team willing to take the time to learn about your needs and the specific circumstances surrounding your case. When it comes to your family, we know the stakes are high. We are responsive and make sure you always know the status of your case. Our legal team will diligently fight for your family’s future. We have experience in the following areas of family law:

If you are considering divorce or need help with other family law matters, our attorneys can advise you on all of your options and help simplify the process. We will be with you every step of the way to help you reach your goals.

Answers To Commonly Asked Questions About Family Law

Below, we’ve provided answers to questions prospective clients regularly ask our attorneys.

Do I need to hire an attorney when dealing with family law issues?

Legally speaking, you are not required to consult an attorney. As a practical matter, however, working with an experienced family law attorney is essential. These are complex legal matters that can impact your financial future, your parental rights, your relationship with your children and more. You simply cannot afford errors and delays in the resolution of your case.

How do courts determine who gets custody of children in a divorce?

Judges prefer when two parents are able to work together to negotiate the details of a custody agreement. If that is not possible, however, the decision is left to the court. In Washington, judges must make custody decisions in the best interests of the child or children. There are a wide variety of factors to consider, which our attorneys would be happy to discuss with you during an initial consultation.

Is it possible to change a child custody order in Washington?

Yes, it is, with the approval of a court. If there has been a significant change in parental circumstances or the needs of the children, either parent can petition the court and make the argument that the current custody order no longer meets the best interests of the child. Because courts value consistency and predictability for kids, however, the arguments will need to be well-reasoned and compelling.

Our attorneys can help you present the strongest argument for your position, whether that is seeking a change or seeking to prevent a change.

We Are Ready To Help – Contact Our Office Today

If you’d like to learn how our attorneys can assist you, contact us to schedule a consultation. Call our Tacoma office at 253-617-7525 or fill out our online form.