What are the divorce laws in the state of Washington?

What are the divorce laws in the state of Washington?

To divorce in Washington State, only one spouse need say that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” Once that is said, then a divorce decree can be granted. The next thing to know when seeking a divorce in Washington State is that Washington is a “community property” state.

Is divorce federal or state law?

In the United States, state laws—and not federal laws—generally regulate divorces; however, some federal legislation does affect the responsibilities and rights of parties that are divorcing.

Is WA A 50/50 divorce state?

In the state of Washington, all property in a divorce is subject to division. That being said, your property will likely not be divided 50/50 in a divorce. Instead, Washington divorces focus on “equitable” division—that is, a division that is fair and just, not necessarily equal.

Is WA a marital state?

Washington is a community property state. In a community property state, all property and all debt accumulated during the course of a marriage including income of both spouses is presumed “community property” belonging to both spouses.

Can a spouse file for divorce in Washington State?

According to Washington state laws, only one spouse in the marriage must believe and declare that the marriage is irretrievably broken in order for the divorce decree to be granted. “Irretrievably broken” means that the marriage cannot be saved, and there is no chance of reconciliation. Who can file for a divorce in Washington?

When did divorce become legal in the United States?

In 1890, 3 couples per 1,000 were divorced and by 1920, 8 couples per 1,000 were divorced. The Married Women’s Property Acts in the United States were laws passed by the various states that gave greater property rights to women and, in some cases, allowed women to sue for divorce.

Can you get married in another state in Washington State?

Legal marriages in other states and countries are recognized as valid in Washington. However, the following situations are not recognized as valid marriages: When a person gets married when they already have another spouse, then the second marriage will not be considered valid.

What was the first state to pass no fault divorce?

The National Association of Women Lawyers was instrumental in convincing the American Bar Association to help create a Family Law section in many state courts, and pushed strongly for no-fault divorce law around 1960 (cf. Uniform Marriage and Divorce Act ). In 1969, California became the first U.S. state to pass a no-fault divorce law.

What are the laws for divorce in Washington State?

The Basics of Washington’s Divorce Laws. Just as state laws regulate marriage, there are legal requirements for divorce as well. These include residency requirements, the grounds for a “no fault” divorce, waiting periods, and more.

Can a divorce be bifurcated in Washington State?

The state of Washington strongly discourages bifurcation of a divorce unless circumstances are extremely hostile, and the divorce cannot proceed unless there is an immediate termination. Some judges will allow bifurcation, and some will not, but overall, bifurcation is a rare occurrence in the state.

How to change your name after a Washington State divorce?

How to Change Your Name as Part of a Divorce. The simplest way to change your name is to include the request as part of your petition for divorce. Your attorney can help you fill out the right paperwork, and the name change will be included in your final divorce decree.

Can a spouse still live in Washington State?

Your spouse lived in Washington at some point during your marriage. One of your children was conceived in Washington. You still live, or are stationed in the armed forces, in Washington. C. What if I cannot find my spouse? You may still be able to file for divorce and serve your spouse by publication.