How To File for Divorce in Washington State (2025)

Filing for divorce can be legally and emotionally complicated. Understanding how to file for divorce in Washington State can ease some of the stress. Explore the state’s divorce laws and how hiring the right divorce attorney can help.

Understanding Divorce Laws in Washington

Washington is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that a spouse doesn’t have to prove misdeeds, such as adultery, to file for a divorce. The only legal ground needed to end a marriage is concluding that the relationship is irretrievably broken. Currently, the divorce rate in Washington is 2.8 per 1,000 people. Spokane County alone has a rate of 4.7 per 1,000 individuals.

When filing for divorce in Washington, at least one spouse must be a resident of the state. There is a 90-day waiting period between the date the divorce petition is filed and when the final decree is entered. The state also follows community property laws, which means all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally.

If children are involved, the court requires a parenting plan and a child support worksheet. This involves the parents documenting each person’s responsibilities for where the child will live and how the child will be raised.

The Process of Filing for Divorce in Washington State

Filing for divorce involves several key steps. These include:

• Step 1: Determine residency. You or your spouse must be a resident of the state of Washington.
• Step 2: Prepare forms. The main forms include a petition for dissolution of marriage, summons, confidential information form, vital statistics form, and a proposed parenting plan and child support worksheet.
• Step 3: File the forms with the court. File your completed paperwork with the superior court in the county where you or your spouse resides. You’ll then pay a court filing fee.
• Step 4: Serve the divorce papers. The non-filing spouse must be legally served with the divorce paperwork, typically by a process server, law enforcement, or any adult not involved in the case.
• Step 5: Wait the mandatory 90 days. Washington law requires a 90-day waiting period from the date the divorce is served until the judge can finalize the divorce. This time can be used for negotiations, mediation, or preparing for trial, if necessary.
• Step 6: Reach an agreement or go to trial. If both spouses agree on issues, such as property division, child custody, and support, you can file agreed orders and avoid a trial. If not, you may need to take your case before a judge.
• Step 7: Finalize the divorce. Once all issues are resolved and you’ve passed the 90-day waiting period, the judge signs a final divorce order. This makes the divorce official.

The Role of a Divorce Lawyer

Working with an experienced divorce attorney in Washington can significantly improve your odds of a fair and timely resolution. A divorce lawyer can help you file all necessary paperwork correctly and on time.

Divorce attorneys also ensure accurate division of assets and debts and negotiate child custody and visitation terms if children are involved. If your case goes to court, a lawyer can represent your interests and help you navigate any conflict. A skilled lawyer can also offer objective advice during an emotional time and work to minimize stress while pursuing the most optimal outcome for your future.

Why You Should Choose The Legal Hill, PLLC

When you’re ready to hire a divorce attorney you can trust, The Legal Hill, PLLC, is ready to help. We provide compassionate, knowledgeable, and strategic legal support in every phase of the divorce process.

Our team has successfully handled countless Washington divorce cases. We’re known for our integrity and client-focused approach. Whether your case is resolved through mediation or requires a courtroom trial, we’re prepared to fight for your interests and protect your rights.

FAQs

Q: What Is the First Step in Filing for a Divorce in Washington State?

A: The first step in filing for divorce in Washington involves preparing a petition for dissolution of marriage with the superior court. In Spokane, you can do this at the Spokane County Courthouse at 1116 West Broadway Avenue. This document outlines your proposed terms regarding property, children, and support payments. You’ll also file a confidential information form and summons.

Q: How Much Does It Cost to File for Divorce in Washington?

A: The filing fee for divorce in Spokane County, Washington, is $364. There may be additional fees for processing, and you may be asked to take a parenting class if children are involved. If you hire a divorce lawyer, they will have their own set of fees for services. Total divorce costs can increase significantly when issues are contested.

Q: Who Should File for Divorce First in Washington State?

A: There’s no legal advantage to being the first to file a divorce in Washington since it’s a no-fault jurisdiction. However, the filing spouse can influence the initial terms of the divorce by framing the issues in the divorce petition. There can also be some strategic advantage to filing first, such as having more time to prepare.

Q: What Is the Fastest Way to Get a Divorce in Washington State?

A: The fastest way to get a divorce in Washington State is through an uncontested divorce, where both parties agree on all terms. This includes property division, child custody, and spousal support. Both spouses can file a joint petition and settlement agreement that can also expedite the process. Avoiding litigation, filing paperwork promptly, and working with an attorney through disputes can all help make the process smoother.

Hire a Divorce Lawyer

The Legal Hill, PLLC can advocate for your future and help you move forward with clarity and peace of mind. Whether you’re seeking a quick resolution or need aggressive representation in a complex case, we can help.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys. Let us guide you through the process of filing for divorce in Washington with confidence and peace of mind. We’ll guide you through every step, ensuring your rights are protected and your interests remain a priority.