Family Law: Divorce in Washington

A dissolution, commonly called divorce, is a formal court proceeding that terminates the marital relationship in Washington.  After the Divorce Decree is final, the parties are free to remarry.  Either spouse may file for dissolution of marriage in Washington if he or she resides here.

Washington is a “no-fault” state, meaning that either party may file for divorce if they believe that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”  No other basis for the breakdown is relevant to the court.  Major issues to be decided either by agreement or by the Court include division of property and debts, residential and support arrangements for any minor children, and spousal maintenance.

If you have been served with a Petitioner for Dissolution of Marriage, your written response is generally due within 20 days (60 days if you were served out of state).

There are frequently some complex issues in a dissolution, such as tax ramifications, discovering and valuing property, debt division, child custody and residential disputes, child support and spousal maintenance.  It is helpful to discuss these issues with an attorney in advance to see if you should have legal representation through this legal process. Call and talk to our experienced family law attorneys who regularly work in divorce actions. Call us at 425-255-4542.