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How long does
it take to get a divorce?
After paperwork is filed, there is a 90-day waiting period,
followed by a brief court hearing. Divorce papers will be signed by
a judge at the hearing, and the divorce is final. The court will
supply copies of the final divorce papers with the judge’s
signature.
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Do I have to
go to court more than once?
Two visits to the courthouse are required—first to file the
paperwork in the clerk’s office, and again for the final hearing.
You will be provided written instructions on filing and the
scheduling of your final hearing. Only one person needs to be at the
hearing if all the papers are signed by both.
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What is
involved if there are children?
Additional paperwork is necessary if there are children,
including drafting of a detailed parenting plan. In many Washington
counties, divorcing couples with children are required to attend a
parenting seminar. Those details will be provided as part of the
process.
The 90-day waiting period is the same whether or not there are
children.
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How many
appointments are necessary?
In most cases, only one meeting is required—with any necessary
follow-up communication handled by telephone or e-mail.
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What does it
cost?
A flat fee is charged for a non-contested divorce that does not
involve children. An additional fee is charged when children are
involved because of the additional paperwork required.
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Are there any
other fees involved?
A filing fee is paid directly to the court at the time of
filing. There are no other fees or charges unless there is a need
for a process server.
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If my spouse
and I are not in complete agreement,
can you still prepare our
paperwork?
It is important that couples be in basic agreement on major
issues. Mediation assistance can be provided when there are minor
disagreements. If it becomes apparent that there are too many
unresolved issues, the couple or either party will be referred to
family law attorneys.
