Experienced Counsel. Practical Guidance. Strong Advocacy.
Serving Washington Clients Since 1999
Since 1999, Scott Burkhalter has helped individuals and families throughout Washington navigate divorce, parenting disputes, support matters, property division, and other family law challenges. Combining experienced advocacy with practical guidance, he is committed to helping clients move forward with confidence during difficult transitions.
A graduate of Chapman University School of Law and published legal scholar, Scott has appeared in state and federal courts throughout Washington and has litigated and negotiated thousands of cases.
As a father of three daughters, longtime Washington resident, community leader, and former president of Everett Golf & Country Club, Scott understands every case involves more than legal issues—it involves people, families, and futures. His understanding involves more than legal issues—it involves people, families, and futures. His practice is built on strategic preparation, practical guidance, and strong advocacy when it matters most.
From the initial consultation through final resolution, Scott provides complete legal representation tailored to your unique circumstances and goals. He manages every stage of the process—including negotiation, mediation, motion practice, trial preparation, and courtroom advocacy—while guiding you through each step with experience, strategy, and personal attention.
For clients who do not need full legal representation, Scott offers flexible, limited-scope services tailored to specific needs, such as document preparation, legal advice, mediation support, or representation at particular hearings. This approach provides experienced legal guidance while allowing clients to maintain greater control over their case and legal costs..
Whether you are seeking to dissolve your marriage or remain legally married while resolving financial and parenting issues, Scott provides strategic guidance tailored to your circumstances and goals. He helps clients navigate property division, child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and other important issues with a focus on achieving fair and practical outcomes.
Washington law requires the court to make a fair and equitable distribution of property and debts, which does not always mean an equal division. Scott helps clients identify, value, and divide assets and liabilities while advocating for a fair and equitable outcome reflecting the unique circumstances of each case.
Washington courts establish parenting plans based on the best interests of the child, with the goal of fostering healthy and meaningful relationships between children and their parents whenever appropriate. Scott helps clients develop, negotiate, and litigate parenting plans involving residential schedules, decision-making authority, and other important issues affecting their children's well-being..
Spousal maintenance may be awarded to help a spouse meet their financial needs during or after a divorce, depending on the circumstances of the parties and the length of the marriage. Scott represents clients seeking or opposing maintenance awards and advocates for fair and equitable outcomes that support long-term financial stability.
Prenuptial agreements are contracts entered into before marriage that establish how assets and financial matters will be handled in the event of divorce. Postnuptial agreements serve a similar purpose but are executed after marriage, helping couples clarify financial expectations and protect their interests should the marriage later end.
Domestic violence allegations can have significant consequences for personal safety, parenting rights, housing, and future legal proceedings. Scott represents clients seeking protection orders as well as those responding to allegations, providing strategic guidance and strong advocacy throughout the process.
Mediation and arbitration offer alternatives to traditional courtroom litigation, often providing a more efficient and cost-effective way to resolve disputes. Scott helps clients prepare for and participate in these processes, whether negotiating a mutually acceptable resolution through mediation or presenting their case to an arbitrator for a binding decision.
When disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution, litigation may be necessary to protect your rights and interests. Scott provides strategic preparation, strong courtroom advocacy, and experienced representation throughout all stages of the litigation process.
Estate planning helps ensure that your wishes are carried out and that your loved ones are protected in the event of incapacity or death. Scott provides limited estate planning services, including wills, powers of attorney, health care directives, and community property agreements tailored to your individual needs.
Scott provides practical legal guidance and strategic advice to help clients understand their rights, evaluate their options, and make informed decisions. Drawing on decades of legal experience, he offers counsel on a variety of legal issues, helping clients navigate challenges before they become costly disputes.
Scott stays current in the law, rules and legal process. He has been representing clients in divorce and family law cases for over 25 years, and he has the experience and knowledge to help you navigate the process.
Scott understands family law cases can be emotional and stressful. He, and his staff, will provide compassionate support and guidance throughout the process.
Scott's top priority is advocating for your best interests. He will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you with integrity and protecting what matters most..
Since 1999, Scott Burkhalter has helped individuals and families throughout Washington navigate divorce, parenting disputes, child support matters, property division, and other family law challenges. Combining experienced advocacy with practical guidance, he is committed to helping clients move forward with confidence during difficult transitions.
A graduate of Chapman University School of Law and published legal author, Scott has litigated and negotiated thousands of cases in Washington state and federal courts. Clients value his strategic preparation, practical advice, and strong advocacy when their future matters most.
BURKHALTER LAW PLLC
