Olympia + Tacoma Divorce Lawyers

Divorce + Separation

Ending a marriage is one of the hardest transitions a person can face. Our job is to make sure every choice you make is intentional, informed, and aligned with the life you want on the other side.

Strata Family Law attorneys
TWO OFFICES Olympia + Tacoma
Three Counties Thurston, Pierce, Lewis
ONE FOCUS Family Law
Washington Divorce

What divorce actually looks like in Washington.

Washington is a no-fault state. You don’t prove wrongdoing. You prove the marriage is irretrievably broken. But “no-fault” doesn’t mean “no strategy.” The decisions you make in the first weeks after filing will shape the financial and emotional terrain of the next year of your life — and sometimes longer.

There’s a 90-day mandatory waiting period from the date you file and serve. Washington is also a community property state, which means assets and debts acquired during the marriage start from a presumption of 50/50. That presumption is where the conversation begins, not where it ends. Separate property, commingled funds, appreciation of pre-marital assets, business interests, retirement accounts, and debt allocation all change the math.

What you do in the first 30 days — before any motions, before any temporary orders — shapes the next 12 months. That’s why a conversation with an attorney before you file is worth more than a conversation after.

Our approach to divorce cases

We don’t run a volume practice. Every divorce case at Strata gets a real strategy built around the client’s actual life — the kids, the finances, the timeline, and the version of the future worth protecting. We measure success by what the client walks away with on the other side, not by how loudly we can argue inside a courtroom.

Honesty comes first. If negotiation will serve you better than litigation, we’ll say so. If the other side’s offer is worse than what the court would give you, we’ll say that too. You’ll always know where you stand, what we’re doing, and why.

“Better to talk to an attorney before you do something, rather than after you've done something.”

— Paul Posadas, Partner
Why Strata for divorce

What you'll actually get from us.

Strategy, not just paperwork

We don't just file motions. We build a plan around the life you want on the other side and we work that plan through every hearing, every negotiation, every decision.

Clear communication, not confusion

You’ll always understand where things stand and what comes next. We translate the legal process into clear, practical guidance—so you can make decisions with confidence, not guesswork.

Education and resources, not uncertainty

We provide more than legal answers. We help you understand the process, the legal framework behind each decision, and connect you with trusted resources—so you can move forward informed, prepared, and supported.

Inside a divorce

What we handle as part of your divorce case.

Divorce isn't one case. It's several interlocking cases that have to resolve together. Here's what that actually looks like:

Property Division

Community vs. separate property, what's on the table, what isn't, and how to protect what you brought in. Covers pre-marital assets, commingled funds, and appreciation disputes.

Spousal Maintenance

Washington doesn't use a rigid formula. Courts look at need, ability to pay, duration of the marriage, standard of living, and the non-financial contributions each spouse made.

Child Custody + Parenting Plans

Residential schedules, decision-making authority, holidays, and how the plan actually works in practice — not just on paper.

Child Support

Washington's formula, deviations, and what happens when income is variable, imputed, or contested between self-employed and W-2 earners.

Retirement Accounts

QDROs, pensions, 401(k)s — the paperwork behind the paperwork that determines what your retirement actually looks like after the divorce is final.

Business Interests

Valuation, buy-out, or continued ownership — and the tax consequences a DIY calculator or divorce packet won't catch.

Our process

How we walk with you through this.

01

Listen First

Before we tell you what we think, we hear what you're facing.

02

Educate You

You should understand the legal landscape before you make decisions in it.

03

Build a Strategy

A real plan with real contingencies — not a template.

04

Advocate

Inside the courtroom, at the negotiation table, and everywhere in between.

05

Keep You Informed

You'll never wonder what's happening in your case.

06

Set You Up For What's Next

The case ends. Your life continues. We plan for both.

Common questions

Common questions about divorce in Washington.

Washington requires a 90-day waiting period from the date of filing and service. Most uncontested divorces resolve in 3-5 months. Contested divorces with custody disputes, significant assets, or business valuations can take 12-18 months — sometimes longer if trial becomes necessary.

No. Washington is a no-fault state. You don't have to prove infidelity, abandonment, or cruelty — only that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Fault can surface during custody or property conversations in narrow contexts, but it is not the legal basis for the divorce itself.

You must be a resident of Washington or stationed here as a member of the armed forces at the time you file. There's no minimum duration — unlike many other states that require 60 or 90 days of residency before filing, you can file the day you establish residency.

Yes, and most family law cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. Court is the backstop, not the plan. If both parties are willing to work in good faith, mediation often produces better outcomes than a contested hearing.

It depends on whether the house is community property, separate property, or a mix of the two. Options include selling and splitting proceeds, one party buying out the other, or continuing joint ownership for a defined period — often until the kids finish school.

Washington does not use a rigid formula. Courts look at need, ability to pay, duration of the marriage, standard of living during the marriage, and the contributions each spouse made — including non-financial contributions like homemaking and childcare. Short marriages typically see short-duration support, if any. Long marriages may result in extended or permanent support.

Real Clients. Real Feedback.

★★★★★
“Riley will go to bat for her clients. She knows her profession and cares about her clients (and their loved ones). Thank you, Riley.”
Bishop G.

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Katrina provided exceptional legal support throughout an extremely difficult and stressful process to develop a parenting plan in a challenging situation. Her attention to detail and professionalism ensured the best possible outcome for my child's well-being, and I feel incredibly lucky to have had such competent and compassionate legal representation. I also appreciated Katrina's dedication to keeping costs as reasonable as possible - given the contentious nature of the case, the process took a long time, but she made every effort to avoid unnecessary costs. I would highly recommend Katrina!”
Nicole

Avvo Review of Katrina Otto

★★★★★
“Riley and Mindy did an excellent job walking me through my divorce. I was stuck trying to move the process forward. With their help I was able to not only move it forward but bring it to a successful conclusion. I would highly recommend this team to help you in whatever family law situation you find yourself in.”
Anonymous — Riley Moos (October 2024)

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“I had a consult with Katrina and in 1 hour she helped boost my confidence and gave me more helpful insight than I received from the first two meetings I had with another firm. She was honest and to the point and understanding. If it was necessary to retain in the future I would absolutely feel good about using her for representation”
Kassi

Avvo Review of Katrina Otto

★★★★★
“I had a bad experience with a previous lawyer so when I worked with Riley I was impressed by how smoothly the firm ran and I felt heard.”
Max

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“I spent a little over a year working with every member of this team. Dealing with matters that require legal support lends itself to financial and emotional challenges. I cannot find the words to express how grateful I am for this team's professionalism and empathy to my case and my daughter throughout the continuous waves of needs as we worked towards settling a parenting plan that would best serve her. I can tell you I spent quite some time calling around before working with this team and the price is appropriate for the responsiveness and effectiveness in assuring your success. They are honest and will work in YOUR best interest. If there are things you can handle on your own and save some cash they will guide you and point them out to help you out. That was so meaningful to me as a single mom doing the best she can here. I highly recommend this team as they were instrumental and brought me success in both the civil and domestic needs of my case. I will definitely keep them close for any future needs as the staff is just delightful to engage with.”
Nandita

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Katrina represented me through a very long and contentious divorce. There were times I did not know what to do and she was skillful and kind in her guidance. She did not back down and was strong and masterful in her approach. Katrina knows the law and is accomplished in these challenging cases. She is honest and demonstrates the highest level of integrity. Katrina is also aware that this is an expensive process and keeps her communications on task to avoid unnecessary charges. I recommend Katrina without hesitation. If you are in need of Family Law representation make sure you consult with Katrina as she will do an amazing job for you.”
Alisha

Avvo Review of Katrina Otto

★★★★★
“Riley and her team were amazing at helping me navigate my divorce. I had been married for 27 years when it suddenly ended. Riley and her team were patient with me, answered all my questions and kept me informed of every step along the way. Everytime I reached out to them they always quickly responded. Their professional representation got me everything I needed in my divorce. Thanks to them I am very well taken care of and my future looks great.”
Shala

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Attorney Moos was incredibly kind, respectful, and professional. She and her team made me feel very comfortable and taken care of throughout the entire process. Riley is incredibly knowledgeable and made sure I got the best representation possible. Her team ensured I stayed educated and gave me great pointers on how to handle the situation I was experiencing. This was my first experience hiring an attorney and I didn't think it was possible to experience the amount of trust that I did with them.”
Anonymous — Riley Moos (December 15, 2023)

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Riley and her team are great at what they do. They were able to take on my case after being let down from another law firm and give me the best result at the end of my case........I wish I would have found her sooner!”
Anonymous — Riley Moos (December 13, 2023)

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Katrina was absolutely amazing. From start to finish of my case she made sure to communicate effectively, respond timely, and helped me understand the process. Before hiring Katrina my case was a mess created by a less than desirable previous attorney. I was afraid there was no hope for my case. She showed up daily with knowledge, hard work ethic, and determination and was able to give me hope again. She is truly a genuine person and a professional power house! I could not be more grateful for her and her time!!”
Halie

Avvo Review of Katrina Otto

★★★★★
“Attorney Riley Moos was INCREDIBLE to work with! She understood my concerns, showed compassion and truly cared about the outcome of this case. She anticipated my concerns and was ready to offer advice when needed. She accurately predicted the outcome of each step through proceedings and reassured my worries throughout the process. Facing a legal battle is scary, intimidating and emotional. Having an incredible attorney to work with is a HUGE BLESSING and tremendous help. I HIGHLY recommend working with Attorney Moos!”
Christina

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“From the consultation to the end result, Riley did an amazing job with a difficult case. She was professional, prompt and compassionate throughout the whole process. I was very impressed with her ability to word things exactly the way I was thinking on documents, which made things go smoothly. She was confident in the court room which helped put my mind at ease. Her honesty and perspective helped me make hard decisions and in the end my parenting plan turned out exactly as I hoped. Karisa, her paralegal was absolutely wonderful as well and was always available when I needed her. Overall I am very happy with the outcome of my modification of parenting plan and relocation. I would use Riley and her team again if needed.”
Anonymous — Riley Moos (October 3, 2023)

Avvo Review of Riley Moos

★★★★★
“Paul (and Nancy Hull) helped me through a divorce recently and were excellent. They both had a calm, methodical approach that helped me emotionally and financially in the end. I am grateful for their services which were more affordable/reasonable than expected also.”
Michael

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“I recommend him highly. He handled my case very professionally and did a great job.”
Anonymous — Paul Posadas (December 16, 2022)

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“I just completed a lengthy and high-conflict divorce with Paul Posadas and Kaylene Taylor as my counsel. This case had every possible twist and turn imaginable (GAL, multiple evaluations ordered by the court, lay and professional supervision, restraining order, etc.). This has been the longest and most exhausting period of my life. There was so much uncertainty and chaos caused by the opposing party, I spent many anxious nights awake wondering what fresh hell would come next. Thankfully, I knew that Paul and Kaylene had my back. I knew that Paul would keep the long term goals in mind and drive our case forward. I knew he would give good advice and explain his reasoning in a clear manner. I knew he would argue my case in a way that the judges would understand our position. I knew that Kaylene would respond to my calls and emails no matter how minor, often with a bit of professional levity that was greatly appreciated. I knew that Kaylene's eye for detail meant that nothing would slip through the cracks. I knew we would get out from under this marriage with my dignity intact. And that is exactly what happened. I highly recommend Mr. Posadas and Ms. Taylor to anyone in a complex divorce/custody situation.”
Michelle

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul has been my lawyer through all 7 years of a contentious divorce and parenting plan. In that time he has shown unparalleled knowledge, skill and ability, seeing me through many significant legal battles versus my former spouse. Because of him, I have my sons in my custody and my 2A rights. He is courteous, quick witted and meticulous in his strategy and approach to court procedure. His insight, ability and stellar track record place him in an exceptional category above his peer group. You absolutely want Paul on your side!”
Daniel

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“I needed to file a major modification of my parenting plan due to safety issues in the other household. I received Mr. Posadas' name through recommendations from trusted friends and members of the legal community and he exceeded my expectations in every way. He ultimately delivered an agreed order that was fair, protective, and in the best interest of our daughter, avoiding a trial. Specifically, Mr. Posadas' communication was prompt, clear, respectful, and (with opposing counsel) assertive. I never felt in the dark, there were no phone calls or emails of mine left unanswered, and even at the time of initial consult, he never plied me with promises of best-case scenarios. Mr. Posadas had a plan and was extremely competent and professional in executing it. If you are looking for a Thurston County family law attorney who is experienced, tough, professional, ethical, and respected by his peers to represent you through a difficult family transition or crisis, I don't think you could do better than Paul Posadas and his excellent team of paralegals and office professionals.”
Jamie

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“I had no issues at all with this Firm. They were informative upon the initial free screening and were up front about their prices. No matter what they were doing they always made time to take my call and answer my questions. They consistently kept me up to date on the status of my case and performed flawlessly even while trying to get divorced during COVID-19 restrictions through the courts.”
Ryan

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul represented me through an fairly contentious divorce proceeding that went all the way through to trial. Paul was reassuring every step of the way, and helped keep me at ease throughout a difficult process. Being from the east coast, I prefer a much more adversarial strategy in legal matters, but Paul's approach was spot on. He doesn't focus on the sniping - he focuses on the facts and the law and wields them artfully in court. In fact, in hindsight, his strategy yielded pretty strong results. Every time we stepped into court on a motion hearing, I came out with more time with my kids. And at trial - I was awarded most of what I requested. Paul is extremely organized, and despite his large caseload, he was always prepared for my case. I appreciated that he always seemed on top of things, took copious notes, and stuck to his strategy of the facts and the law. Finally, Paul kept me sane. My ex repeatedly pulled stunts with the children, and my anxiety was always at the next level. Through all my anxiety and stress, it was talking to Paul that made me feel better about the case because he always reminded me of the facts and the law and what could and couldn't be done. I have referred - and will continue to refer - my friends and acquaintances to him for legal services.”
Chris

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“If you want to succeed in your case, this is the firm you want. I had (what I thought) a complicated and very sensitive case involving custody, relocation and and and and.... I would not have made it through without Paul and Syndi's continuous efforts, compassion, and straight forward tenacity. I knew I needed a good lawyer - the best. We paid for the best and got the results we wanted. NOW, I currently live in NY, with 100% custody of my children. This would NOT have been possible without this firm. Paul and Syndi's professional experience kept me grounded when I needed to be, fierce when I had to be, and motivated when I was down. If you truly want fair and honest representation, dedicated work ethic, experience, and above all to win - then this firm is bar none the best!!”
Dave

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“He made my divorce smooth and assured he had my back 110% in any situation . Amazing guy and very professional!!! Thank you”
Devan

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul is officially my hero! My case was very complex and highly litigious. Thanks to Paul's strategy and negotiation skills, I got the best possible outcome in my case, which was better than I ever imagined would be attainable. I would and will recommend Paul to anyone and everyone who is facing a family law matter.”
Jennifer

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul is the best. He helped me through every step of my case. Answered EVERY question and concern I had. I highly recommend Paul!!!!!”
Anonymous — Paul Posadas (April 12, 2017)

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“I hired Mr. Posadas at the tail end of my case. Even after a decade and a half of dealing with support orders and parenting plans, my nerves were still on edge. Going to court to determine your financial future and your future as a parent has always been stressful to me. Mr. Posadas and his staff alleviated my stress with an honest assessment of my case. Knowing what my legal rights and legal limits are can go a long way to understanding family court. His advice and his help filling out the final support order were nothing short of fantastic. I hope to never again need an attorney, but if/when I do, I plan on calling on Mr. Posadas again. He and his staff are there for fathers who need someone to be their voice in a troubling time. Thank you Mr. Posadas and staff.”
Frank B.

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul was very professional and extremely knowledgeable. I had absolute faith in my attorney when going into the courtroom. While in court he was on top of the situation. His calm and professional style showed the entire case resulting in the judge deciding in our favor. I give paul the highest recommendation. His assistant was excellent, putting up with my many question and making me feel that my case was the highest priority. If you are truly in need, you could not make a better choice than Paul Posadas.”
Anonymous — Paul Posadas (October 3, 2013)

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul was very helpful in my divorce. He communicated very well and put up with my many calls, if he was busy, he would return my calls quickly and was very reassuring. During a very hard time, Paul helped me to stay positive and move on with my life.”
Joseph

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul was a Godsend!! Even when I got weak and tried to soften up, Paul kept me true to our course and focused on the longterm outcome. He communicated with me often and was always willing to talk about plans. I cannot imagine my life without him. I am a single Dad, active duty military, with custody of my 3 children because of him.”
Travis

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Paul was polite and professional. He put up with me and helped me to jump through the hoops. Thanks to him, life goes on for me.”
Doug

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

★★★★★
“Had a fairly contentious parenting plan modification. Paul helped me out tremendously in correcting mistakes made by my previous attorney. High marks on communication, again, something I missed with my last lawyer.”
Anonymous — Paul Posadas (February 8, 2010)

Avvo Review of Paul Posadas

01/30
Service area

We serve families across the South Sound.

Strata Family Law represents divorce clients across Thurston County (Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Yelm, Rainier, Tenino), Pierce County (Tacoma, Puyallup, University Place, Lakewood, Gig Harbor, DuPont, Bonney Lake), and Lewis County (Chehalis, Centralia, Napavine, Morton). Whether your case is in Olympia, Tacoma, or anywhere across the greater South Sound, you get the same team, the same standard, and the same commitment.

Take the First Step.

One conversation can change everything.

A consultation isn't a commitment. It's a chance to understand your situation, ask the questions that keep you up at night, and find out what your options are.

Call (360) 295-9577

Request a Consultation

We'll get back to you within one business day.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Confidential · No obligation · Protected by attorney-client privilege

Serving the South Sound.

Two offices. One standard. Whether you're in Olympia or Tacoma, you get the same thoughtful counsel and the same team in your corner.

Olympia Office

Olympia, Washington

111 Market St. NE
Suite 300
Olympia, WA 98501

Direct Line

(360) 295-9577

Tacoma Office

Tacoma, Washington

1145 Broadway
Suite 612
Tacoma, WA 98402

Direct Line

(253) 733-1533