Cooney Law Offices, P.S.

New Article: Family Law Mediation - What and Why? A great perspective and insights from one of our well-versed family law attorneys, Alexia Johnston. Alexia ("Alex") is a zealous advocate for her family law clients but also recognizes the importance and value of giving them decision making power through the process of mediation. #FamilyLaw #Divorce #ConflictResolution #Mediation #CooneyCares #FightingForYou #SolutionsForYou #CooneyForYou

Meet Alex Johnston, of the attorneys at Cooney Law Offices, practicing both family and employment law. She’s passionate about helping clients navigate some of life’s most challenging transitions, especially through family law mediation. Family law mediation is a voluntary process that helps those involved in family law matters, such as divorce or child custody, resolve issues outside of court. A neutral third party called a mediator guides conversations between the parties, clarifies perspectives, and keeps the discussion civil. Unlike a judge, the mediator doesn’t make a final decision. Instead, they help the parties reach an agreement, giving them control over the outcome.   In Spokane County, as well as many other counties across Washington, mediation is required before family law cases can go to trial. However, there are exceptions, so it’s important to consult with a local attorney for guidance. The Spokane Superior Court offers a list of “Qualified Family Law Mediators,” for those nearby. https://lnkd.in/gpJcNS38   Most family law mediations follow a shuttled format, where each party is in their own room, and the mediator moves back and forth. If either party has an attorney, the attorney can be present in their room. This format reduces tension, allows time for reflection, and provides an opportunity for private discussions with legal counsel.   If both parties reach an agreement, the mediator will usually draft a CR 2A. A CR 2A is a document outlining the agreed terms. Once signed by both parties, it becomes legally binding. Final divorce documents are then drafted, and the case is finalized once signed by a judge.   Mediation offers a chance to resolve disputes cooperatively, avoiding the stress and cost of going to trial. It allows individuals to have a say in the outcome, making it a great option for those looking to resolve family law matters in a more peaceful, collaborative way.

Tuesday Tip: How are Baby DUI's different? The criminal charge of Baby DUI, or Driver Under Twenty-one Consuming Alcohol or Cannabis has different elements and consequences than an adult DUI, but Baby DUI must be taken just as seriously. https://lnkd.in/gRC-gZGS #FightingForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: One DUI Charge. Two Separate Cases A DUI in Spokane will likely lead to a court case and a separate DOL case. These are two completely independent cases. You can win one and lose the other, so it's important to keep track of both. https://lnkd.in/gVvCbHQ9 #FightingForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: Pedestrian Collisions On the Rise Pedestrian collisions in Spokane have climbed nearly 40%. Drivers can slow down and minimize distractions, but there are also plenty of things pedestrians can do to keep themselves safe. https://lnkd.in/gp6-NmqR #SolutionsForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: DUI’s and Legal Limits for Alcohol Drivers can face a DUI charge or worse even if they're below the legal limit. Now the Washington State Legislature is looking to lower the limit even further. https://lnkd.in/gYFfKfXW #FightingForYou #SolutionsForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: When Will a DUI End with a Blood Draw? Most DUI's are alcohol related and end with a breath test. However, when drivers refuse a breath test or if law enforcement believes a driver is impaired by something other than alcohol, then they might request a blood draw. https://lnkd.in/gmT9Wi-Y #FightingForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: What to do immediately after an Auto Accident After evaluating whether anyone needs emergency medical attention, there are a couple important steps you should take at the scene to help your injury claim. https://lnkd.in/gha5pbyE #SolutionsForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: Should you submit to a roadside breath test? Giving a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) sample rarely makes sense and most folks under investigation for DUI are better off politely refusing this roadside test. https://lnkd.in/gBpPn4v7 #FightingForYou #ForYou

Tuesday Tip: What Happens If You Die Without a Will? Dying without a Will can trigger unnecessary stress for your family. Washington State law kicks in and your property gets distributed based upon the government's formula. They're your assets and you should decide who gets them! https://lnkd.in/gaxq7c7b #SolutionsForYou #ForYou