At BruegelPC, we understand that the thought of navigating a divorce can be overwhelming. You’re probably wondering, “How long does this process take in Washington?” As experienced divorce lawyers, we have helped countless individuals through this complex journey. Let us guide you through what to expect so you can face this challenging time with more confidence.
Based on Washington law, a divorce takes at least 90 days after filing. This time allows for mandatory waiting. It can take longer if issues are contested.
Average Time for Divorce in Washington
The average time for a divorce in Washington can vary, with some uncontested cases taking as little as 90 days to finalize.
By and large, getting a divorce in Washington usually takes between three months to a year.
If both spouses agree on important issues like dividing property, alimony, and child custody, the process is quicker and cheaper. In these cases, they can get divorced in about three months after filing the papers.
But, if they can’t agree on these issues, the process takes longer. As a rule, the court will have to hold hearings, review evidence, and make decisions for them. In these situations, the divorce might take a year or more.
Each divorce is different, so timelines can vary. It’s a good idea for anyone thinking about divorce in Washington to talk to a family lawyer to understand their specific situation and timing.
Factors Influencing Divorce Duration
The complexity of assets, presence of children, and spouse cooperation significantly influence how long a divorce process can take.
For the most part, divorce can take longer if there are a lot of arguments and the court has to step in to solve them. The time it takes can also depend on where you are getting divorced, as some places process things faster than others. How experienced and efficient the lawyers are can also affect the timeline.
Let me explain, other things like your emotional readiness, financial situation, and support from friends and family can make a difference too. Every divorce is different, so it’s hard to say exactly how long it will take. Each case needs to be approached with attention to its own details.
Steps in the Washington Divorce Process
As noted earlier in Washington, the initiation of a divorce involves filing a formal petition that must be served to the other spouse.
For the most part, the person being served has a set time to respond. If both sides agree on the divorce terms, they can send a settlement agreement to the court for approval. If they disagree, they might need to attend mediation to sort out their issues. If mediation doesn’t work, the case goes to trial.
In general, during the trial, both sides present their cases and evidence, and the judge decides the terms of the divorce. Once finalized, the judge issues a final divorce decree. Both parties must follow the orders in this decree, which might include dividing property, deciding on child custody, and setting child support and alimony payments. It’s important to follow all court orders to avoid legal trouble.
How to Speed Up Divorce Proceedings
Continuing from before, securing a highly effective lawyer can significantly expedite divorce proceedings.
In the most basic sense, make sure you collect and organize all needed documents right away. Respond quickly to any requests from your lawyer or the court. Avoid delays by being cooperative during negotiations. Focus on what really matters and try to settle when you can. Be ready for court dates and hearings by being organized and arriving on time.
Broadly speaking, talk clearly with your lawyer and be honest about what you want. Think about using mediation or arbitration instead of long court battles. Keep up with the progress of your case and check in with your lawyer regularly. Remember, the goal is to finalize the divorce as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Settling Divorce Cases Out of Court
Bringing together earlier ideas, out-of-court divorce settlements often save significant legal fees and reduce emotional stress.
As a rule, settling a divorce outside of court can be a less stressful and cheaper option than going to trial. In mediation or negotiation, both parties have more control over the outcome and can create agreements that fit their specific needs. This can lead to more personalized and creative solutions that wouldn’t be possible in court.
Additionally, resolving issues out of court can help maintain relationships, especially when children are involved. To cut a long story short, it encourages more open communication and cooperation, which is vital for effective co-parenting.
However, it’s important to get legal advice before agreeing to any out-of-court settlement to ensure your rights are protected. Make sure you fully understand the terms to avoid future disputes or misunderstandings.
My Concluding Remarks
Adding to what was earlier stated in Washington state, the length of time it takes to finalize a divorce can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case and the cooperation of both parties.
What BruegelPC is recommending to prepare for is, on average, uncontested divorces can take as little as 90 days, while contested divorces may take much longer. It is important to consult with a legal professional to work through the process efficiently and effectively.
References
- “Washington Family Law Trial Manual” by Mark Johnson, Washington State Bar Association
- “Divorce in Washington: The Legal Process, Your Rights, and What to Expect” by David Crouse, Sterling Law
- “The Divorce Handbook” by James T. Friedman, Nolo