In Washington, either spouse can file for divorce.
Anyone who has lived in Washington for at least six months may file for divorce in the state.
No, Washington State does not require a legal separation period before filing for divorce. However, the couple must have lived in the state for at least 90 days before filing for divorce.
In Washington state, community property is typically divided equally between spouses in a divorce. This means that each spouse is entitled to half of all assets and debts acquired during the marriage. Additionally, any property or assets acquired prior to the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance during the marriage are considered separate property and not subject to division. However, if separate property is commingled with community property, it may become part of the community property and subject to division. The court may also consider other factors, such as the duration of the marriage and each spouse's financial contributions to the marriage, when dividing community property.
According to a survey by Avvo, the average cost of divorce in Washington is approximately $14,500, with fees ranging from $8,000 to $22,000. This includes attorney fees, court fees, and other associated expenses. However, the cost can vary depending on the complexity of the case, whether or not it involves child custody or support issues, and the type of divorce process chosen (such as mediation, collaborative divorce, or traditional litigation).
In Washington state, an uncontested divorce can be finalized in as little as 90 days after the filing of the divorce papers. However, if the divorce is contested, it can take significantly longer, sometimes up to a year or more depending on the complexity of the case and court schedule. It is important to note that the timeline for divorce in Washington can vary depending on each individual case.
Child custody in Washington is decided based on the best interests of the child. The court will consider various factors including:1. The child's age, health, and emotional needs.2. The relationship each parent has with the child and the ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs.3. The ability of each parent to provide a stable home environment for the child.4. The child's preference, if the child is of sufficient age and maturity to express a preference.5. Any history of domestic violence, abuse or neglect.6. Each parent's work schedule and availability to care for the child.7. The child's cultural and religious background.Ultimately, the court will make a decision that is in the best interests of the child. In many cases, parents are able to come to their own agreement about custody and visitation arrangements, which the court can then approve.
