If you’re thinking about divorce in Washington State, knowing what to expect can make things easier to manage. The paperwork, timelines, and costs can feel like a lot, but getting clear on the process is the first step toward moving forward.
Divorce is more common than many people realize, more than 22,000 couples filed for divorce in Washington in 2022, according to the Washington State Department. That’s about 60 divorces every day across the state.
Northwest Family Law helps people through every stage of divorce. We supplement the legal side by bringing in financial planners, healthcare professionals, and other trusted partners to support every part of the transition. Our team keeps communication open, and builds a plan that fits your specific situation.
Key Takeaways
- You can file if you or your spouse lives in Washington.
- The process takes at least 90 days.
- Filing costs start around $300.
- Contested cases take longer and cost more.
Who Can File for Divorce in Washington State?
To file for divorce in Washington State, you or your spouse must currently live in the state, and at least one of you must plan to stay here. There’s no minimum length of residency required, you just need to be residents when you file.
What Are the Legal Grounds for Divorce in Washington?
Washington is a “no-fault” divorce state. This means you don’t need to prove anyone did something wrong. You simply need to state that your marriage is “irretrievably broken,” meaning there’s no reasonable chance you’ll reconcile.
This simplifies things because:
- You avoid lengthy court battles proving fault.
- Your divorce stays private, no airing personal details publicly.
- The process moves quicker, saving you time and money.
How Do You File for Divorce in Washington State?
The divorce process in Washington State starts with paperwork, but knowing where to file, how to serve your spouse, and what happens next can make the entire journey feel more manageable.
What Forms Do I Need to Start the Divorce Process?
Starting your divorce involves filling out a few key forms. Washington courts typically require these documents to officially begin your case:
- Petition for Divorce (Dissolution): Officially asks the court to end your marriage.
- Summons: Notifies your spouse about the divorce.
- Confidential Information Form: Provides private details (kept confidential by the court).
You can usually get these forms online from your county’s Superior Court website or pick them up directly from your local courthouse. Filling them out correctly makes sure your case starts smoothly.
Where Should I File My Divorce Papers?
In Washington, divorce paperwork needs to be filed with your local Superior Court. Typically, you’ll submit your documents to the court located in the county where either you or your spouse lives. For example, if you live in Seattle, you’d file with the King County Superior Court.
Make sure you submit your completed forms and pay the required filing fee directly to the court clerk. Filing at the correct location helps your divorce proceed without delays or extra complications.
How Do I Serve Divorce Papers to My Spouse?
After filing, you’ll need to officially notify your spouse by serving them with divorce papers. Washington allows you to do this in a few different ways:
- Personal service: Someone other than you, usually a professional server or sheriff, delivers the papers directly.
- Acceptance of Service: Your spouse willingly signs a form acknowledging they’ve received the documents.
- Service by mail or publication: Allowed only if you can’t locate your spouse or they’re avoiding being served.
How Long Does My Spouse Have to Respond to Divorce Papers?
After being served with divorce papers in Washington, your spouse typically has 20 days to file a formal response if they live within the state. If your spouse is outside Washington, they have 60 days to respond.
If your spouse doesn’t respond within the required time, the court can move ahead without their input, potentially granting you a default divorce.
What Happens After I File for Divorce?
After your spouse responds (or if they don’t respond in time), your divorce moves into one of two paths:
- Uncontested Divorce:
You both agree on everything regarding property, debt, and child custody. It’s quicker, less expensive, and often less stressful. - Contested Divorce:
Disagreements arise on important issues like custody, property division, or support. This path often involves mediation or court hearings and usually takes longer and costs more.
How Is a Divorce Finalized in Washington?
Your divorce is officially finalized when a judge signs the final divorce decree (Decree of Dissolution). If you and your spouse agree on all issues (uncontested), you’ll typically submit the paperwork for the judge to review and sign without needing a court hearing.
In contested cases, the judge will finalize the decree after mediation or a court trial resolves outstanding issues. Once signed, you’re officially divorced, and the decree legally sets the terms for property division, custody arrangements, and financial support.
How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Washington State?
Here’s a breakdown of common expenses, factors that can increase costs, and practical ways to save
What Are the Court Fees I Should Expect?
To file for divorce in Washington, expect to pay a court filing fee typically ranging between $280 and $350, depending on your county. Additional fees might include charges for serving papers.
If you’re struggling financially, you may qualify for a fee waiver, which allows you to file at reduced or no cost. Being aware of these standard fees helps you budget effectively from the start.
What Factors Can Make Divorce More Expensive?
Several factors can significantly raise the cost of divorce in Washington, including:
- Attorney Fees: Hiring lawyers typically ranges from $300–$500 per hour.
- Contested Issues: Disagreements about child custody, support, or dividing assets mean longer legal battles.
- Mediation Costs: Professional mediators charge around $350–$400 per hour.
- Complicated Assets: Businesses, retirement accounts, or property valuations require financial professionals.
How Long Does Divorce Take in Washington State?
In Washington, even the simplest divorce has a mandatory 90-day waiting period from the date your spouse is served or signs an acceptance form. That’s the absolute minimum. If everything is agreed on and paperwork is in order, your divorce can be finalized shortly after that window.
So, the fastest possible timeline for an uncontested divorce is about three to four months. Many people use this waiting period to work out final details like parenting plans or splitting up belongings.
If the divorce is contested your timeline could range from a few months to a few years depending on the situation.
How Can You Speed Up the Divorce Process?
You can’t skip Washington’s 90-day waiting period, but you can avoid extra delays by staying organized and cooperative. Here’s what helps:
- Agree Early: The more you and your spouse can agree on, custody, property, support, the faster things move.
- Use Mediation: It’s quicker and less formal than court, and often helps resolve sticking points.
- Get Your Paperwork Right: Mistakes or missing forms can delay court approval. Double-check everything before filing.
- Be Responsive: Respond to your lawyer or the court quickly to keep things moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I Need an Attorney to Get Divorced in Washington?
No. You can file on your own, especially if it’s uncontested. But legal help is smart for complicated cases or if you have kids or property.
Q: Can I File for Divorce Online in Washington?
In many counties, yes. Some offer e-filing and others let you download forms to submit in person. Check your county court’s website.
Q: How Do We Handle Child Custody?
You’ll need a parenting plan. If you can’t agree, the court decides based on what’s best for the child.
Q: Can We Split Property Without a Fight?
If you both agree, yes. If not, the court will divide property fairly, not necessarily equally, based on Washington’s community property laws.
Your Next Chapter Starts Here
Divorce is about setting a new foundation for your life. If you’re ready to move forward with clarity and support, Northwest Family Law is here to help. Our team combines legal guidance with real-life support, from financial planning to healthcare referrals, so you’re never going through this alone.
Reach out through our contact page to schedule a consultation and take that first step toward a stronger, more confident future.