{"id":2826,"date":"2022-02-19T21:23:21","date_gmt":"2022-02-20T02:23:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/divorceanswers.com\/?p=2826"},"modified":"2022-07-28T10:13:30","modified_gmt":"2022-07-28T15:13:30","slug":"divorce-in-washington","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/divorceanswers.com\/divorce-in-washington\/","title":{"rendered":"Your Complete Guide to Getting a Divorce in Washington"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
What We Cover In This Article<\/strong><\/p>\n Divorce Laws<\/a> | Residency Requirements<\/a> | Grounds for Divorce<\/a> | Divorce Attorney<\/a> | Filing for Divorce<\/a> | Online Divorce<\/a> | How Long?<\/a> | Divorce Costs<\/a> | Custody<\/a> | Child Support<\/a> | Alimony<\/a> | Division of Asset<\/a> | Common-Law Marriage<\/a> | Alternatives<\/a><\/p>\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n Any divorced individual will tell you that the process of filing for and obtaining a divorce is exhausting. It is a significant change in your life and a complicated legal process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Divorce can trigger intense emotions like sadness, rage, fatigue, confusion, relief, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You will be even more confused if you are not already familiar with the laws and nuances in Washington before starting your journey. When considering ending your marriage, you likely feel lost among all of the available information and opinions around you. Take note that we will typically provide information that is accurate to the entire state of Washington. You can find information specific to your locality at your local county court<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There may be further steps to take and forms to complete that do not apply to the rest of Washington.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Each state governs its divorce processes with specific laws<\/a>. The Revised Code of Washington <\/a>contains all of the laws and procedures that dictate how to conduct legal activities in the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Title 13 of the state code very clearly describes the Washington statutes on domestic relations<\/a>, which include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chapter 26.09<\/a> and its dozens of sections are about dissolution proceedings and legal separation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The state code covers every possible situation and provides clear guidelines for all scenarios. The laws detail every step of the dissolution process and describe how the courts must tackle child custody, child support, alimony, property and debt division, and anything else.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Divorce in Washington is not subjective. You must follow the state laws. Miniscule errors or careless mistakes will cause a delay in your divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This article will refer to the legal end of a marriage as \u201cdivorce\u201d and \u201cdissolution\u201d interchangeably. The State of Washington uses the word \u201cdissolution\u201d in most of its publications and policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can pursue different types of divorce in Washington. The kind you will get depends on whether or not you and your spouse agree on the terms of the dissolution and how amicable or contentious your relationship is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In the United States, there are many different reasons for a divorce. These are called grounds. In some states, like Washington, you do not need a specific ground or reason to request the end of your marriage. Washington is considered a \u201cno-fault\u201d divorce state.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A no-fault divorce needs no evidence of misdeeds or a reason from either partner to dissolve the marriage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In an at-fault divorce in another state, one party would accuse the other of misconduct during their marriage. Washington does not allow this and does not make either party prove wrongdoing on the part of their ex-spouse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Section 26.09.03<\/a> of the Washington State Code spells out the details of the State\u2019s divorce laws. Splitting couples must meet the legal requirements<\/strong> to end their marriage in Washington. The only reason or ground required of them is that their marriage is broken irretrievably. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There is a 90-day mandatory waiting period from the time that either party files the dissolution petition before the court will take further action. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are two kinds of divorce in Washington: contested and uncontested divorces. They affect which procedures you will follow and how long the dissolution process will take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Determining whether your divorce will be contested or uncontested will depend on your situation and whether you and your ex agree on all terms of the divorce, and how you wish to proceed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unless you can\u2019t locate them or there is an immediate risk of danger if you and your partner interact, you should talk about the impending legal process with your spouse and attempt to create a fair and just agreement. There may be many details for you and your spouse to work out together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One detail will make a divorce more complicated than you would expect. Child custody often leads to an emotional and contentious fight between you and your ex. If you struggle to agree on a custody plan, you have to learn the custody laws in Washington and understand how they will work during the divorce process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Along with custody, another point of friction is financial support. If you or your spouse will have to pay child support or alimony (also known as spousal support), you may find it more challenging to get along. You and your ex probably won\u2019t see eye-to-eye and might need a judge to intervene to keep the peace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of you might wish to divide your assets in the divorce. Washington is a community property state, which means that all assets acquired during a divorce are considered the property of both spouses. The court will divide assets equally and fairly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We will go over all conditions you must consider when going through a divorce in Washington state. First, we will review the two types of divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A contested divorce is a divorce where you or your soon-to-be-ex-spouse oppose the terms of the divorce suggested by the other partner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Contested means you disagree on one or more matters involved in the dissolution. These disagreements can be any of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ideally, you would avoid a contested divorce and work together to resolve everything fairly with your partner. It is simpler to agree on fair terms than to have a courtroom battle with a judge deciding your fate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With the involvement of a judge, one or both parties may be unhappy with the outcome. It\u2019s challenging to have a neutral party make decisions about your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, in a few circumstances, mediating terms between the two parties is challenging or unfeasible. In these cases, you will proceed with a contested divorce and leave the issues to the judge:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Extenuating circumstances:<\/strong> Circumstances where you might need a judge include<\/p>\n\n\n\n A contested divorce sometimes requires multiple hearings and a long litigious process. Both parties will present their case and evidence, and the judge will hear the information. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The court will deliberate custody and support issues, marital property partitioning, and anything else you need help figuring out during your divorce. When possible, it is better to proceed with an uncontested divorce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n An uncontested divorce is much easier than a contested divorce. The spouses will agree on the terms of the dissolution and work together to complete the process without fighting. There are two ways for an uncontested dissolution to occur in Washington State.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first way is when one party files as the sole petitioner. The other spouse, or the respondent, has twenty days to file a response. The respondent can file an answer stating they dispute the terms proposed by the petitioner. In this case, the case will proceed as a contested divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For the divorce to be uncontested, the respondent must file a response stating that they agree with the divorce terms<\/strong>. After the 90-day waiting period, the judge can then order the dissolution and grant the sole petitioner everything they asked for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the respondent fails to file a response, the petitioner may file a Motion for Default. If the judge signs the order, the judge can sign the Dissolution Decree, otherwise known as the Final Divorce Order (FL Divorce 241<\/a>), once the ninety days are up. Once this is signed, your marriage will be over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The other way to obtain an uncontested divorce is for the two parties to file together as joint petitioners. Using a joint petition is an easy way for you and your spouse to go separate ways amicably. <\/p>\n\n\n\n While a joint petition is the simplest way to end your marriage, not everyone qualifies. You must meet some requirements for a joint dissolution. These requirements are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even though many couples do not qualify for filing jointly, they can still get divorced quickly and easily if all parties agree on the divorce terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For an uncontested dissolution, you both must agree on all elements of the divorce, including child custody and support, if applicable. If you have children under the age of 18 together, the court might require you and your spouse to take a parent education course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you and your spouse cooperate on the divorce and file jointly or agree to the proposed plan right away, you will save yourselves plenty of time, stress, and money. Uncontested dissolutions are always preferable over contentious court battles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you qualify for an uncontested divorce, using an online divorce service is a great way to save a lot of money. Keep in mind in Washington, divorce can cost over $12,000 <\/span>in fees if you file for divorce with an attorney.<\/p> We reviewed, rated, and ranked the best online divorce services available and our #1 choice is 3StepDivorce.<\/p> <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you want to get a divorce, you must first determine which court or state has jurisdiction over your marriage and the impending dissolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This information is vital to your case because every state has different conditions for deciding residency in divorce cases. If you file a dissolution action in a state where you don\u2019t meet the residency requirements, the court will dismiss your case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Section 26.09.030<\/a> of the Revised Code of Washington lists the residency requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To qualify as a Washington resident and obtain a divorce in the state, you only need to fit one of the residency requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is not a minimum length of time that you or your spouse are required to be domiciled in Washington before the divorce commences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should file the petition for divorce in Washington county, where you or your spouse lives. If your spouse resides out of state, you file in the county where you live. <\/p>\n\n\n\n In actions where one partner lives outside of Washington, the court can legally end the union. Still, they may not order specific stipulations, like child spousal support, because Washington cannot enforce these across state lines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A question about divorce that we often hear is, \u201cwhat do I do if I cannot locate my spouse?\u201d Being unable to locate or contact your ex is challenging, but it does not mean you cannot obtain a divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must make a genuine effort to find your spouse by law. This effort should include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must show due diligence and present the judge with your search records. If you are unsuccessful, you will file a Motion to Serve by Publication, requesting that the judge grant an Order to Allow Service by Publication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This motion will only apply if you can genuinely prove one of the following: If you are granted service by publication, you will publish a notice in an approved local newspaper instead of a process server giving the divorce papers to your ex-partner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This notice will inform your spouse of your intentions. You must publish the information once a week for six weeks.<\/strong> If your ex does not respond, the judge will probably grant a default judgment on your terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Washington is a no-fault divorce state<\/a>. In a divorce action, the court will not consider the misdeeds of either party. Neither spouse will be allowed to use the other spouse\u2019s wrongdoing as the basis for the process. When granting the divorce, a judge cannot entertain any allegations (such as adultery).<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is a difference between Washington and some of the other no-fault states. While other states, like California, won\u2019t let either party blame the other party for the divorce, Washington will allow judges to consider the transgressions of either party in certain situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The judge in Washington may consider these poor actions when deciding on child custody. In this circumstance, the misconduct may indicate a danger to the child and lead to a less favorable divorce settlement for the misbehaving party. Misconduct only applies if the misdeeds involve domestic abuse or sexual misconduct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some states with at-fault divorces will grant a dissolution based on one party\u2019s drunkenness, cruelty, adultery, insanity, or more. A Washington family court will not require or admit any evidence of these allegations unless in the previously mentioned situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The only ground for divorce that Washington recognizes as valid is an irretrievably broken marriage. <\/strong>An irretrievably broken marriage means that there is no chance that the couple will reconcile. Washington does not require proof of this. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Perhaps the most important consideration when approaching a divorce is whether or not you will hire a divorce attorney. There are situations where you will need counsel and ones where you probably can represent yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a joint petition, where you and your ex agree on all of the issues and are not asking the courts to make any decisions for you, you can skip spending the money on a lawyer and represent yourselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are attempting a simple DIY dissolution and expecting an uncontested divorce, you may not need legal representation. However, if you encounter any unexpected issues or have unresolved questions about your divorce process, we recommend contacting a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many factors affect the potential necessity of hiring a divorce lawyer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If the divorce is contentious and there are disagreements and fighting between you and the other party, you should hire representation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Having representation makes sure that you protect your rights. An attorney is somebody who can speak for you during the legal process so that you can rest easy knowing you have an advocate who understands the intricacies of family law and will follow state statutes to the letter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We previously mentioned how important it is to file for divorce correctly and become comfortable with the specifics of your local laws. When you choose to retain legal counsel, you purchase peace of mind. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s your lawyer\u2019s job to make sure that your paperwork is accurate and legitimate and that you avoid the court dismissing or delaying your case. You won\u2019t have to work too hard on the legal side of things. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you and your spouse have assets or debt that you have to split and you are struggling to decide how to do this equally and fairly, you need professional help. Your attorney can answer any questions about this process and suggest resolving disagreements so that you are not in an ugly fight in court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You are more likely to need a lawyer if there are any disagreements between you and your ex on child care. Representing yourself in a complex case is risky because you could end up with an unfair outcome. It\u2019s challenging to advocate for yourself in these situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you and your ex share minor children, retain a lawyer unless the two of you can agree to everything in your divorce judgment. Custody, parenting time, and child support are all problems that can make one side or the other heated and angry. Going into a custody battle without a lawyer could hurt you or your child(ren).<\/p>\n\n\n\n To protect yourself and your children during this process, hire a skilled attorney for any contested divorce that involves minor children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An attorney<\/a> files your paperwork on time while following the proper procedures. The knowledge that someone is accurately taking care of all the administrative pieces of your divorce is precious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s also helpful having somebody who is on your side entirely. Divorce is puzzling and emotional. It feels draining and isolating. Your attorney will advocate for you and ensure that your settlement is just. Navigating the complicated legal system with a legal professional acting on your behalf is invaluable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hiring legal representation can also have disadvantages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One downside that many people don\u2019t consider is the loss of personal autonomy. You retain a lawyer so that they commit to representing your best interests. However, you may disagree with your attorney on your best interests. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You might feel like you have to make a decision that you oppose, or you might not like an action your lawyer wants to take in court. It feels invasive when another person is involved in making life-changing decisions in your personal life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The biggest drawback is the cost of representation. Hiring a lawyer may cost you thousands of dollars. If your separation is highly contentious, a lawyer could end up costing an arm and a leg. <\/p>\n\n\n\n To save money, we suggest representing yourself if you could solve your divorce issues quickly because you and the other party agree on how to handle everything. If you can file the paperwork with the court on your own and don\u2019t need help settling disagreements, you can save money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Hiring a lawyer for your divorce action can be challenging because you are trusting a stranger. They may be a legal professional, but they will still influence the outcomes of your divorce. Because of this, you need to trust your attorney and be comfortable talking about all of your legal issues together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Since this period of your life represents a fundamental transition, make sure your lawyer is reliable and trustworthy. Locating the best, experienced lawyer is a rough process, and it is one you need to start the second that you choose to get a divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are low-income, you can check out some of Washington\u2019s resources for free and reduced-cost attorneys<\/a> and legal advice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Read More:<\/strong> Divorce advice for men<\/a> or Divorce advice for women<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n A reasonable family law attorney will have several desirable traits. You must find a lawyer who has all or most of the qualities you seek and is a good fit for your specific case. <\/p>\n\n\n\n At the beginning of your hunt for legal counsel, write down these attributes, along with any others that are important to you. This task will assist you in narrowing down your list of candidates so that you can select the best possible representation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Your divorce should be handled by a professional well-versed in Washington family law, especially divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A skilled divorce lawyer can quickly answer your inquiries about a complicated divorce case. If your situation or problem is unique, the attorney you choose should have experience with that specific scenario. Your case should not be novel for your lawyer, or they may lose focus on your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Communication is vital. Your lawyer must champion you and make statements on your behalf in the courtroom, so clear and concise communication is desirable. If you need to ask a question about your divorce, you will want an answer quickly. Many attorneys receive complaints that they do not respond fast enough to questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You must ensure that whoever you hire is available to answer your calls or emails in a reasonable timeframe. Attorneys may have a full caseload and not have the time to answer every phone call immediately. Your lawyer might be slow to respond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Outside of clear communication, legal professionals should have superior people skills. The best attorneys can impress judges, opposing counsel, and clients with their charm and personality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You should feel comfortable with your lawyer. If they seem scary or intimidating, it will be hard for you to work with them or request their assistance. Your attorneys should radiate trustworthiness and honesty. Interpersonal skills are super essential for any attorney.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s time to find an attorney that embodies the qualities you are looking for. Your lawyer will have a massive influence on your divorce proceedings, so you want to choose the best one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be realistic about what the divorce will cost and how much you can afford. Budget for more than your prediction to give yourself a buffer amount, just in case you exceed your budget or there is an unexpected cost or delay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You will want to discuss your budget and potential costs openly with potential attorneys. You both should be honest about your expectations to avoid surprises during the legal process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, create a list of available local attorneys. Write down candidates in the area. Before contacting them, pare your list down with the next few steps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Speak to your friends and family members who have gotten divorced. Inquire about their representation and get truthful input on their lawyer\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Read reviews of local attorneys online. Testimonials are sometimes hosted on legal review sites and social media. You can cross off any attorneys that don\u2019t impress you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, contact the remaining offices and chat with the attorney or paralegal about prices. Remember that they will only give you an estimate and possibly a range based on their standard fees and relevant experience. The actual cost of your divorce will depend on all of the different involved factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If an attorney has a retainer or hourly fee that surpasses your budget, you can cross them off your list before meeting them. That way, nobody\u2019s time is wasted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Arrange your list based on your current preferences. Start to schedule consultations with the lawyers on your list. Do this one by one. Begin with your first choice or the attorney who impresses you the most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At the consultation, describe the facts of your divorce case, ask for their feedback, and ask some interview questions to see if the lawyer fits your needs. If you are impressed with the first lawyer you meet, you can go ahead and hire them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you still have to review your other choices, move to the next name on the list and schedule an interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Before you select representation, make sure of a few things. You need to be comfortable with your choice, and they should be knowledgeable and have plenty of experience. Make sure you two communicate well during your meeting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n There are many questions that you should ask a lawyer before hiring them. We\u2019ve compiled a list of some essential questions, but write down any other questions that come up to bring with you to the meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lawyers can be generalists or specialists. You want to hire a divorce specialist. You want to feel confident that your attorney knows family law and understands the intricacies of divorce in your area. Family law can be very complicated and scary, so trusting your matter to someone knowledgeable is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Experience is essential, and you want the peace of mind of knowing your lawyer has seen cases similar to yours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lawyers can have a full schedule loaded with commitments to many different clients. It\u2019s reasonable to expect them to take a few hours to return your call. On the other hand, waiting for several days for an attorney to respond to a simple question usually indicates that you are not working with a dependable attorney. <\/p>\n\n\n\n After they hear the specifics about your situation, the lawyer should be able to give you a general overview of how they would proceed with your dissolution. This strategy will help you decide if your attorney can make good decisions in your divorce.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Divorces have a lot of variables. After reviewing your case, an experienced attorney would be able to guess which incidental costs are likely to arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether or not a consultation is free depends on each individual attorney. Many offer a free initial consultation, while others have consultations at their standard hourly fee. Some lawyers may charge a reduced rate for a shorter consultation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some programs provide legal assistance<\/a>, like reduced-fee or free consultations. Check with your local county court for a complete listing of legal aid organizations available to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your initial meeting with an attorney is meant to be discrete<\/a>. Even when you choose not to hire a lawyer, they must protect your information. A lawyer you have met with cannot work with your ex for the divorce, as it is a conflict of interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The advantages of using a lawyer in your divorce include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lawyers understand the complicated details and specifics of Washington law. They know what you may be entitled to from your divorce and what elements could affect the outcome. Attorneys can also discern what is essential to the judge so they can prioritize those issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ending a marriage is stressful, emotional, and challenging for anyone, even more so when it is a contested proceeding. Hiring legal counsel provides you with an expert on your side and ultimately gets the state code and the family law process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You will only have to provide them with any information and signatures they ask for. This process removes responsibility from you and reduces your stress, which is always positive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dissolutions involve more paperwork than anyone wants to fill out! Lawyers make sure all of your documents are completed concisely submitted within the deadlines. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You pay your counsel to be on your side, but they are a legal professional without an emotional attachment to you, your ex, or the outcome of your case. The result is that they provide an unbiased view on the issues so that you can be sure you are viewing the case logically and not through your emotions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We also want to review the disadvantages of hiring a lawyer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n While you will hopefully hire someone with low prices, an attorney is still costly, and most people cannot keep paying them for too long. That can lead someone to file for an uncontested or joint petition even if they want to contest the proposed order.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bringing in a stranger to work with you could take some of your control over the divorce. Navigating disagreement with your counsel is very hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even if hiring an attorney is not a malicious action on your part, the other party may see it as an attack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Your spouse could feel caught off guard and assume the worst about your litigation plans. This contention can cause drama, heightened emotions, and fighting, especially during an uncontested case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Filing for divorce is the part of the process that requires the most care and knowledge. When you don\u2019t know how the process works, getting your petition filed is a huge challenge and can feel like a barrier to obtaining your divorce and moving on with your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n We designed an in-depth guide with explanations of each step so that you can proceed confidently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is an appropriate overview for people getting a divorce without an attorney. You do not have to worry about most of this section if you hire representation. Your lawyer will find and prepare the correct forms and ensure that this part of the process is handled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pro Tip:<\/strong> The information below is perfect for you to get an overview of the divorce filing process and also use as a guide if you will be filing for divorce on your own. However, if you are using an attorney, their team will typically be taking care of these steps as part of their proper representation of you as a client.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The first step to filing for a dissolution of marriage is gathering the correct forms and filling them out correctly. You must determine what type of divorce you and your spouse are pursuing and which documents you will need. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most of the forms are available on the Washington Courts website<\/a>, but you can also find them on your county family court page. If you cannot locate the paperwork you need, contact your local family court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can find complete packets online that contain specific step-by-step instructions for completing and filing your Washington divorce forms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The packet you will need depends on whether you and your ex have children or not, and whether your divorce is contested<\/a>, or whether the two of you agree on the issues.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n Each packet will include a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, along with forms that request various forms of relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you plan to file jointly with your ex-spouse, you will follow the same procedures, but you will fill out a \u201cjoinder\u201d and attach it to the Petition. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Read the instructions in your divorce packet carefully and fill out every document that pertains to your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a typical divorce, you will complete and file the following forms<\/a>: If you want assistance with preparing your divorce forms appropriately and instructions on how to file them correctly, using an online divorce service is a great idea to save a lot of money and hassle.<\/p> We reviewed, rated, and ranked the best online divorce services available and our #1 choice is 3StepDivorce.<\/p> Now that your paperwork is ready for submission, you must take it in person or mail it to the county courthouse. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Most courts have staff available to review your forms for completion and advise you on correctly filling and filing them. These staff members are not lawyers and will not give any legal advice about your divorce. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You must pay the filing fee before your divorce action commences. In most counties, it is just under $300. You can file a waiver to remove this fee if you can\u2019t afford it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can use an online divorce service to fill out and mail your initial divorce papers. We will review this process in a later section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You have to serve your ex with the divorce papers. If you do not, the petition will not be considered valid, and the court will dismiss your case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your ex-partner can sign an Acceptance of Service form (FL All Family 117<\/a>)stating they concur that you provided them with a copy of your petition and summons. They will sign this form when you file jointly, or you two get along well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If they do not sign this, you must serve them. If you hire a lawyer, this portion is their responsibility. If you represent yourself, you must have an attorney, process server, or another individual serve the papers to your ex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you can\u2019t find your partner, you will follow the previously described procedures to request service by publication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFinancial disclosures\u201d means any document that requires you to disclose your:<\/p>\n\n\n\n When one party requests any sort of relief, like property and debt division, alimony, or child support, both individuals must provide a comprehensive view of their finances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Financial disclosures include information about: <\/p>\n\n\n\n The requested information is used to determine which party might be entitled to the relief or support in question. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Always provide accurate and honest financial information.<\/strong> You will face the consequences of lying about your information to the court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Online divorce services have been increasing in popularity because they are so easy to use. We do many tasks online, so conducting a divorce virtually seems the next logical step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An online divorce is an excellent option because it gives you the benefit of knowledgeable professionals to assist you with the marriage dissolution process while not paying for an attorney. You are saving money while gaining the same peace of mind you would get from a legal team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An online divorce service guarantees that you and your team will complete your paperwork correctly. The online attorney will prepare complex documents and navigate the challenging process for you. This work removes your stress and worries so you can move on with your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Washington online divorce is simple. Reputable services provide you with a money-back guarantee that promises court acceptance of your paperwork. There are some stipulations to online divorce in Washington.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To use an online divorce service, you have to meet the following requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Online divorce services make the process fast and easy for couples ready to move forward. If you do not cooperate with your soon-to-be-ex, you should consult with an attorney or file your petition for dissolution through the county office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Many states have stipulations regarding minor children that indicate that you cannot file them online when a case involves child custody or support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, Washington will allow you to file for dissolution online whether or not you have children together, as long as you and your ex-spouse agree on all terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Luckily, it\u2019s possible to get divorced in Washington without ever entering a courtroom. This rule includes some divorces through online divorce services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Whether or not a hearing will be required can depend on several factors, such as how complicated your divorce is. The court will let you know if you must attend a hearing to finalize your dissolution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fortunately, we have put together a comprehensive guide to Washington divorce to lessen this confusion and help you get through this process.
Read on for all the information you need to navigate the Washington State family law system, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\nTypes of Divorce Laws in Washington <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
No-Fault Divorce <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Legal Divorce <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Contested Divorce<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pros & Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n
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Uncontested Divorce <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sole Petitioner<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Joint Petitioners <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Pros & Cons<\/h4>\n\n\n
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<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tVisit 3StepDivorce\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRead Our Review\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\tResidency Requirements in Washington <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Where to File for Divorce <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
What to Do If I Cannot Locate My Spouse? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\nGrounds for Divorce in Washington<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Considering Transgressions <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Using a Washington Divorce Attorney <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Hiring an Attorney in Washington <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Contentious or Contested Divorce<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Peace of Mind and Organization <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Asset and Debt Distribution <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Child Custody<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Meeting the Deadlines <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Difficulties When Hiring an Attorney <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Loss of Personal Autonomy <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cost of an Attorney <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
What Makes a Good Divorce Attorney?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Experience<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Communication Skills<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Because of this, your counsel\u2019s firm should have someone designated to answer client questions when the attorneys are busy. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPersonality<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
How to Find a Good Divorce Attorney<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Decide on a Budget <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Create a List <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Speak to Friends and Family <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Read Reviews<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Contact Offices About Pricing <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Schedule Consultations <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Interview Questions for Divorce Attorneys<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Do You Specialize in Divorces? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
How Many Cases Like Mine Have You Handled?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
How Long Does it Take You to Return Phone Calls or Answer Questions?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
What Strategy Would You Recommend for My Situation?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
What Other Costs Should I Expect Throughout This Process?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Is the Initial Consultation Free?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Is the Meeting Confidential?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pros of Using an Attorney<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Legal Knowledge <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Reduced Stress <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Legal Form Assistance<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Objectivity<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Cons of Using an Attorney <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
They Are Expensive <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
You Don\u2019t Always Agree <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
More Contention<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Filing for Divorce in Washington <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Preparing Your Divorce Forms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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<\/p>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tVisit 3StepDivorce\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRead Our Review\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\tFiling Your Divorce Forms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Serving Your Spouse<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Financial Disclosures <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Online Divorce in Washington <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How to Qualify for an Online Divorce in Washington<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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<\/li>Do You Still Need to Go to Court? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n