Washington’s divorce (or “dissolution of marriage”) laws are primarily found in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Title 26, which covers marriage, dissolution, child custody, child support, and related topics. Each Superior Court in Washington’s 39 counties has jurisdiction over divorce cases within its respective county.

Rules & Procedures

In addition to RCW Title 26, divorcing spouses must also follow various court rules and procedural guidelines, such as the Washington State Court Rules (e.g., Civil Rules (CR)) and local rules specific to the county where the dissolution is filed. These local rules may dictate unique requirements for forms, timelines, and hearings, in addition to the standard rules that apply statewide.

The Legal Impact of Divorce

Divorce in Washington is both an emotional and significant legal event. A final Decree of Dissolution legally ends the marriage and addresses critical issues such as:

• Division of Property & Debts
  
• Child Support & Parenting Plans (if the spouses have minor children)
  
• Spousal Maintenance (alimony), if applicable

Because the final decree can have long-lasting consequences, it is crucial to understand your rights under Washington law and to be aware of the potential impacts of any agreements reached with your spouse.

Importance of Understanding the Law

A well-informed approach to divorce can help you:

• Protect your financial and parental rights
• Comply with critical deadlines and filing requirements
• Advocate for a fair settlement or court decision

For many couples, knowing the basics of property division, spousal maintenance, child support, and other important issues can help them feel more confident in navigating the divorce process.

Additional Resources

To help you increase your familiarity with Washington divorce law, we provide comprehensive information on topics that frequently raise questions for divorcing couples. By learning more about these legal guidelines, you can prepare more effectively for every stage of the divorce process.