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Divorce in Washington State

Understanding Divorce

Divorce is the legal process of ending a marriage. In Washington State, it is important to understand the laws and procedures involved in obtaining a divorce.

Grounds for Divorce

Washington is a no-fault divorce state, meaning that you do not need to prove wrongdoing by either spouse. The primary ground for divorce is:

Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage

Filing for Divorce

To initiate a divorce, one spouse must file a petition in the appropriate court. The process includes:

• Completing the necessary paperwork
• Serving the other spouse with divorce papers
• Attending court hearings if necessary

Division of Property

Washington follows community property laws, meaning that most property acquired during the marriage is considered jointly owned and will be divided equally.

Child Custody and Support

When children are involved, custody and support arrangements must be established. Factors considered include:

The best interests of the child

Each parent's ability to provide for the child

Conclusion

Divorce can be a complex process, and it is advisable to seek legal assistance to navigate the legal requirements and protect your rights.