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The end of a marriage can be one of the most challenging times in your life, especially when you attempt to navigate the legal system on your own. An experienced lawyer could not only advise you of your options but also guide you through the Seattle divorce process.
When you work with a compassionate divorce attorney, you have the chance to protect your rights and get the best available outcome. Let our team of dedicated divorce attorneys at Twyford Law Office advocate on your behalf.
The best way to prepare for the divorce process in Seattle is to understand all of the necessary steps. A knowledgeable attorney could answer your questions and provide guidance at every point along the way.
The first step toward dissolving a marriage is to file a Petition of Divorce, which you can do at any time. Unlike most other states, Washington does not require that you live in the jurisdiction for a minimum amount of time in order to qualify.
The petition must also spell out the reason—or grounds—for seeking a divorce. Claiming adultery or blaming the other party is unnecessary. Instead, Washington state only requires the filing party to allege the marriage is irretrievably broken and repair is not possible due to irreconcilable differences.
The non-filing party is given the opportunity to respond. They might submit an answer that agrees with all of the grounds for divorce, or they could submit a petition disputing some of the facts. If they do not file an answer, a hearing may be scheduled after 90 days have passed from when the petition was served.
If you have children, the law requires that you complete a parenting education course that provides guidance on how the end of a marriage can impact a child.
You will also complete discovery, which is the process of exchanging the information both sides intend to use during the proceedings. This is generally the longest part of a divorce case.
A divorce could conclude in several ways. The courts will typically push the parties to try and resolve things amicably. This might include ordering them to take part in divorce mediation or extended negotiations. For some couples, this is enough to lead to a settlement.
When the parties cannot agree, a trial is the final step. During this step, both sides will have the opportunity to present evidence supporting any outstanding issues.
Our skilled legal professionals could assist you with the divorce process in Seattle in many ways. Some examples include:
· Explaining the law and answering questions
· Drafting the divorce petition
· Ensuring the other party is served
· Negotiating a settlement
· Determining a fair division of assets
· Handling the case at trial
Having the right legal counsel on your side could make a tremendous difference in the outcome of your divorce case.
If your marriage is ending, it is important to have a clear picture of the Seattle divorce process. Following each step precisely could put you in the best position for a positive outcome. Reach out to Twyford Law Office today for a free consultation to discuss the steps in your divorce case.
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