If you are going through a divorce, you will more than likely need the representation of an experienced family lawyer. At O’Brian & Associates, we help clients get through the divorce process as favorably as possible. We understand that this is probably one of the most emotionally trying experiences you have ever been through, and we are here to provide the supportive legal guidance and compassionate support you deserve. Whether your divorce can be resolved in a peaceful manner or calls for litigation in the courtroom, you can be confident that when you work with our firm, you will have professionals by your side who genuinely care about your well-being and are determined to help you move forward.
Your Trusted & Compassionate
Divorce Team
Our legal team is here to help you get through divorce and begin the next chapter of your life. Call today to learn more about how we can help.
Begin with a Consultation-
Experienced
With plenty of experience handling divorce cases, we know what it takes to ensure your process goes as smoothly as possible.
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Skilled
Seasoned and skilled in negotiation and litigation, we can represent you whether your divorce is handled in or out of the courtroom.
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Passionate
We truly care about our clients and are passionate about doing all we can to ensure the interests of you and your family are protected.
Divorce Attorney
We Offer the Solutions You Need to Move Forward Favorably
What Does a Divorce Entail?
A divorce does not just mean a marriage coming to an end—there are a number of factors that go along with the divorce process. Our team is equipped to assist you throughout your entire divorce and provide helpful guidance.
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Alimony
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Child Custody
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Child Support
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Property Division
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Modifications
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Fathers’ Rights
You May Be Wondering...
Frequently Asked Questions
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Questions
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How long does the divorce process take?
Answer
The amount of time a divorce takes depends on a number of factors including the county it takes place in, the judge, and whether it is a contested or uncontested divorce. Uncontested divorces are quicker and, on average, take about 3 months. Contested divorces are longer processes and, on average, take about 12 months.
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How are contested and uncontested divorce different?
Answer
When a divorce is uncontested, both parties are able to agree on most terms of their divorce including custody, child support, alimony, property division and more. When the parties are unable to agree on the terms, they will have to file for a contested divorce. This process takes longer because it involves time spent in court, where a judge will make the decisions for the divorcing spouses.
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Will I have to take my case to court?
Answer
While it is not necessary to go to court, many divorce cases are handled in the courtroom. When you work with our firm, we will try to help you end your marriage in a manner that is as amicable as possible; however, this is not always an option. If you are unable to resolve your divorce peacefully, we are prepared to represent you in court, where we will ensure your rights and interests are protected.
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Why do I need an attorney?
Answer
The family law system can be complicated, and divorce proceedings can be especially personal, complex, and emotionally charged. You need a lawyer who will actively protect your rights and interests, and ensure your divorce goes as smoothly as possible. When you work with our firm, we will provide you with supportive guidance from start to finish, and help pave your path toward a better future.
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Susan Millican O'Brian J.D.
CEO of O'Brian & Associates
Susan Millican O'Brian is the founder of the O'Brian & Associates, where she exclusively practices family law. As the managing officer of the corporation, she not only oversees the running of our firm, she also works closely with each of our associate attorneys, meeting bi-weekly to strategize. Together, we bring our combined total of 60+ years of experience of practicing law to every case we handle and help our clients achieve the best possible results.
Attorney O'Brian has represented clients in many dissolution cases involving significant property interests, including but not limited to the valuation and disposition of retirement, pension, employment benefits and stock option/stock awards. She also assists clients with spousal maintenance, parenting and child support matters.
Our office is committed to our clients and Attorney O'Brian listens to their concerns and goals. She has developed an effective style of paying meticulous attention to detail, and delivering unwavering advocacy on behalf of our clients. She has a dedication to professionalism that is recognized by our clients, court, and the opposition.
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Lisa H. Do J.D.
Attorney
Lisa H. Do is dedicated to helping people navigate through what can be a complex legal system, while also fighting for the best outcome for her clients and their families. Lisa first became interested in family law while performing volunteer work at community centers for children. She met numerous parents dealing with not only the emotional distress of a divorce, but also trying to understand the legal system. Her interest and desire to help these parents propelled her to go to law school and to eventually practice family law.
Lisa is acutely aware of the significant impact any legal proceeding can have on a family. Her top priorities are always to obtain the results clients desire, and to ensure they understand how their lives will be affected, both from a legal and personal context. Multi-talented, Attorney Do can serve as an aggressive advocate or a cooperative opposing counsel, depending upon the particular circumstances of the case. She is an experienced litigator who is also well equipped to resolve cases in the most advantageous manner for the client.
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Kathryn F. Peterson
Attorney
During law school, Kathryn Peterson was a judicial extern to Federal District Judge Thomas J. Whelan, served on the "San Diego Law Review," was a contributing editor to the "Journal of Contemporary Legal Issues," and was a member of USD's National Moot Court Tax Team. She is admitted to both the Washington and California State Bars. She is also admitted to the United States District Court for the Southern and Central Districts of California.
Following law school, Kathryn clerked for the Honorable Louisa S. Porter in the United States District Court in San Diego, California. After completing her clerkship, Kathryn practiced complex commercial litigation for several years before serving on the Board of Directors for International Microcomputer Software, Inc. In 2007, Kathryn joining The Walt Disney Company/ABC as Counsel, Legal Affairs.
In 2012, Kathryn founded her own family law firm in San Diego and was active in the Honorable Fiorenzo V. Lopardo Inn of Court. In 2015, together with her husband and three dogs, she moved from San Diego to Seattle where Kathryn continues to focus her practice on family law. She is particularly passionate about her volunteer work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate ("CASA") for dependent children in King County, WA.
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Marcia L. Fisher J.D.
Attorney
Marcia Fisher began practicing law in Virginia and, in 1994, moved back to her home state of Washington and started practicing law here. She is an accomplished litigator who determines and implements effective strategies for clients during all phases of a case. During her past 26 years of practice, she has represented parties in all areas of family law. She has also served as a guardian ad litem for children and incapacitated individuals, and has experience communicating with individuals from diverse social and cultural backgrounds. With mediation training, she is also an accomplished negotiator.
Marcia has participated in multi-week trials; evidentiary hearings regarding the admission of expert testimony, the enforceability of a postnuptial agreement, litigated challenges to a CR2A Agreement, and argued motions in limine. She has also examined over 200 trial exhibits in a case revealing the opposing party falsified documents effectively presented direct evidence and illustrative documents of complex financial transactions, and made numerous appearances before Family Law Commissioners and Judges in both King and Snohomish County.
Learn About the Difference
O'Brian & Associates Can Make in Your Family Law Case
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Our Founder Is in The National Advocates: Top 100 Lawyers List
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Team of Attorneys with at Least 10 Years of Experience Each
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Cutting-Edge Office & Communications Technology
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Our Counsel Is Customized to Fit Every Client's Unique Needs
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Attention to Detail, Accessibility & Responsive Service
Our Client Testimonials
Your Case is in Good Hands
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“The result of their hard work was very favorable for my daughter and I. I am so thankful to this team and the changes they were able to make for my life and my family. Everyone associated with this office has always gone above and beyond what I expected.”
N.M.
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“Susan and her firm have stood by me and my family throughout my custody hearing. Their support has been extremely reassuring in this unbearable situation.”
J.P.
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“This office treated me extremely well throughout my case. I had a very difficult and emotionally charged divorce and their team was with me and my children every step of the way. I always felt that I had a strong advocate on my side. ”
V.V.
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“I very much appreciate all of your hard work and help seeing me through the process. It really made a big difference having you both in my corner.”
K & D.T.
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“Thank you for all of your support hard work and kindness over the past 10 months. You made me feel as if I were your only client.”
W.T.
