The dissolution of a marriage is the legal term for a divorce in Washington state.
This process can be one of the most emotionally and financially stressful times in a person’s life.
In addition, critical issues such as property division, spousal support, and child custody, are on the line.
As a result, it is particularly important to have a trusted and skilled Bellevue Dissolution of Marriage Lawyer on your side. Contact us today at 425-517-3350.
Even the most amicable of divorces can be stressful and demanding. Instead of making life-changing decisions on your own, it helps to have an honest legal advocate by your side. A Bellevue dissolution of marriage attorney can explain the process, handle the paperwork, and help you make informed decisions as you navigate your way to a happier and financially sound future.
To file for a dissolution of marriage, one spouse must be a Washington resident. Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means couples cannot assign blame when filing for divorce. The only grounds for filing is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”
Once the court has the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, a copy of the petition and a summons must be served to the other spouse (respondent). They then have 20 days to file an Answer to contest the divorce if they do not agree to the terms you suggest. Alternatively, if you and your spouse agree to all terms and conditions, it is an uncontested divorce which is a much quicker process.
However, when the parties cannot come to an agreement, the divorce case will head to trial. At a hearing, a judge will hear both sides, review documentation, make a final decision on all disputed issues, and grant a Decree of Dissolution of Marriage.
How long a dissolution of marriage takes varies on a case-by-case basis, but at the minimum, it is 90 days. The timeline will depend on the complexity of the issues at hand and whether divorcing spouses can reach an agreement out of court. If the spouses are amicable and agree on all issues, once they file the paperwork, there is a 90-day mandatory waiting period. The state refers to it as a “cooling off” period to let emotions die down and make sure the parties truly want to divorce.
At Twyford Law Office, we understand that no two clients or divorces are alike. A Bellevue dissolution of marriage lawyer represents each client with equal care and can provide a knowledgeable and trusted approach to your case. Arrange a free consultation today by calling (509) 327-0777 or filling out our online contact form.
Our Seattle Office
814 Second Avenue 515,
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 590-7085
Our Spokane Office
430 W Indiana Ave,
Spokane, WA 99205
(509) 327 0777
Our Bellevue Office
1408 140th Place NE, Suite 400,
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 517 3350.
