FAQs About the Divorce Process in Washington State

The realization that your marriage may be ending can be overwhelming and emotionally complicated. As you explore your divorce options in Washington state, it’s natural for questions to arise. While discussing your divorce goals with an experienced Vancouver attorney is a great place to start, here are some answers to some common questions about the divorce process in Washington to help you prepare for what lies ahead.

How Does Property Division Work?

Like many states, Washington is considered a “community property” state. This means that any property and debt acquired during your marriage will be divided equitably between you and your spouse. Property that’s subject to division includes income, retirement funds, business interests, tax credits and refunds, investments, your marital home, credit cards, insurance policies, household furnishings, and more. Essentially, any financial assets acquired during the marriage will likely be divided up during the divorce process.

How Long Will the Divorce Process Take?

The divorce process involves several weighty decisions that will shape the next phase of your post-divorce life. As such, a divorce does not happen overnight. When a divorce is uncontested, meaning the couple agrees on the terms of the divorce, the spouses must observe a 90-day waiting period during which they can negotiate property division, child custody, and other aspects of the divorce. However, contested divorces tend to last longer, as the couple may need to take the matter to court. Reach out to a knowledgeable divorce attorney for a more accurate estimate of how long your divorce may take to finalize.

Will I Receive Alimony Payments From My Ex-Spouse?

Alimony is designed to help the lesser-earning spouse receive the financial assistance they need to increase their employability (i.e., obtaining a degree or training certificate to find employment) and adjust to their post-divorce life. However, alimony does not apply to every divorce. Washington courts look at several factors to determine whether alimony is appropriate, such as the length of the marriage, the earning capacity of each spouse, the ages of the spouses, and other relevant factors. Enlist the guidance of a dedicated divorce lawyer to help you navigate these critical pieces of the divorce process.

Call John L. Davis PLLC today at (360) 597-4740 to discuss your divorce goals with an experienced Vancouver family law attorney.