Washington Divorce Self-Help Tools

Washington has a mandatory 90-day waiting period after the petition is filed and served before a divorce can be finalized. However, most divorces take longer, especially if there are disagreements between the parties.

While not legally required, it is strongly recommended to consult with a lawyer before filing for divorce in Washington. A lawyer can advise on important legal rights, property division, child custody, and support, even if you cannot afford full representation.

Yes, Washington is a no-fault divorce state. This means that neither party needs to prove fault for the divorce; irreconcilable differences are sufficient grounds.

Washington is a community property state. The court will make a just and equitable disposition of both community and separate property and liabilities, considering factors such as the nature and extent of the property, duration of the marriage, and economic circumstances of each spouse. (RCW 26.09.080)

Yes, in Washington state, pets are generally considered personal property and are subject to division like other assets during a divorce. The court will determine ownership based on various factors, but there are no specific laws granting pet custody in the same way as child custody.