Uncontested Divorce in Washington

Although, divorce implies separate existence of the partners, if they opt for an uncontested divorce, it is possible to separate amicably. The divorcing partners can agree with each other regarding all the issues of the divorce and ensure that the lives of their children are not hampered by the divorce.

Divorce is referred to as Dissolution in this state. The divorcing partner who files the action is named as the Petitioner. The other divorcing partner who responds to the action is called as the Respondent. The venue for filing the action is the Superior Court.

Grounds and Residency requirements of Uncontested Divorce in Washington

This is a no-fault only state. In order to terminate any marriage, there is a singular ground and this is “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.”

In this state, the divorcing partner can file for divorce only is he or she is a resident of this state or a personnel of the armed forces that are stationed in this state.

Petition of the Uncontested Divorce in Washington

The petition consists of the following data.

• Location and date of marriage.
• Date of separation of the partners.
• A statement explaining whether or not the wife is pregnant.
• A statement explaining the disposal of community property.
• A parenting plan, inclusive of visitation and child custody. This is essential if children are involved in the dissolution.
• A statement describing the relief sought.

The statement of relief includes the following information.

• A request for the dissolution of marriage.
• Division of property.
• Maintenance requested.
• Child support desired.
• Visitation requested.
• Residential arrangements for children.
• A request stating that the Property settlement that is appended to the Petition may be sanctioned and included in the Decree of Dissolution.

If the divorcing partners file jointly, then, the Respondent has to sign a Joinder. This document attaches the Respondent to the Petition. Sometimes it may happen that the Respondent agrees with the Petitioner regarding having dissolution, but does not agree regarding the terms and conditions of the Petition. In such a case, the Respondent has to sign an Acceptance of Service.

Other forms

From the date of filing the Petition, the 90-day reconciliation period starts if the Joinder has been signed. During this reconciliation period in some counties, it is essential that the divorcing partners remain present at a parenting seminar.

When the reconciliation period is over, the Petitioner must file in the following forms.

• An Order of Child Support: As per this document, the payment of the child support as felt essential is ordered.
• Waiver of Rights under Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) or a Declaration of Non-Military Service: This document serves as a proof of the fact that the Respondent does not get any protection from civil lawsuits under SCRA.
• A Final Parenting Plan: The terms and conditions of visitation and child custody are described in this form.
• Findings of Fact: This is a profile of the entire case.
• A Decree of Dissolution: This document is used to terminate the marriage.

Divorce Papers