In Washington, divorce petitioners must serve the divorce motion to their spouse and wait 90 days. As long as the divorce isn’t contested, the judge signs the documents and the divorce is final after the waiting period. A Divorce Lawyer in Tacoma WA explains the entire process to couples.
Can Petitioners Use Fault-Based Grounds?
No, the state is a no-fault state and only provides the option of irreconcilable differences. Neither party is blamed for the end of the marriage.
What is Community Property?
In the state, community property is any property acquired during the marriage. The only exceptions are items that were gifts or inherited from family members. All other property is divided during the divorce. Each party has an equal right to any assets they want. If the couple cannot reach an agreement, a divorce trial is scheduled. During a divorce trial, the judge decides who receives each asset.
Creating a Parenting Plan
The state requires the couple to create a parenting plan. The plan provides each parent with equal time with the child. Typically, the state provides joint custody of the child. Only in extreme situations does the court provide sole custody. A parent must present a serious risk to the child, and all allegations must be proven by child protective services. Otherwise, the court reviews the parenting plan and finalizes it if both parties agree. If not, a child custody hearing is scheduled after the divorce is final.
Child Support Arrangements
The state doesn’t allow any parents to avoid paying child support. The payments are scheduled according to the guidelines. The income of both parents and the total number of children play roles in how much the payments are. The noncustodial parent pays on the first of every month.
In Washington, divorce petitioners aren’t allowed to use fault-based grounds. The attorney outlines all the requirements for a divorce. The couple must decide how to divide their property and who receives child custody. The law also requires the couple to make a decision about child custody. Petitioners who want to learn more about what is required for a divorce are encouraged to contact a Divorce Lawyer in Tacoma WA right now.
