Family Law Representation That Protects What Matters Most

NO. Washington is a "no-fault" divorce state.

You do not need to prove adultery, abandonment, or misconduct. The only legal requirement is that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." Courts do not consider blame when deciding whether to grant a divorce, though behavior can matter in specific issues like parenting restrictions or financial misconduct.

Washington has a mandatory 90-day waiting period from the date the divorce petition and summons are filed and served.

Some cases resolve soon after that, while others take longer depending on disputes over parenting, support, or property. Mediation or negotiated settlements often shorten timelines, while contested cases typically take longer.

Washington generally uses the term "parenting plan" instead of custody.

A parenting plan sets out:

• Where the child lives (residential schedule)
• How decisions are made (eduction, health care, technology usage, cultural events, extracurricular activities)
• How parents resolve disputes

The focus is always the best interest of the child(ren), with an emphasis on stability and safety — not parental rights or labels.

NO. Washington law does not require equal parenting time.

Some families do share time evenly, but courts do not start with a presumption of 50/50. Judges look at the child's history, caregiving patterns, school and community ties, and any safety issues when approving or creating a parenting plan.

Child support is calculated used a statutory formula that considers:

• Each parent's income
• Number and ages of children
• Residential schedule
• Mandatory deductions and deviations

Even parents with equal parenting time may still owe support. Courts can adjust amounts when justified, but the calculation begins with the statewide schedule.

YES — but only under specific legal standards.

Support or parenting plans can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as income changes, relocation, or new child-related needs. Minor adjustments have different requirements than major changes, and courts prioritize consistency and predictability for children. 

Washington is a community property state, but that des not automatically mean a 50/50 split.

Courts divide property "justly and equitably," considering:

• Length of the relationship
• Nature of the property (community vs. separate)
• Each spouse's economic circumstances

Separate property (owned before marriage or inherited) may remain separate, but commingling can complicate this analysis. 

A Committed Intimate Relationship (formerly "meretricious relationship") applies to unmarried couples who functioned like a married couple. In legal terms we call this a "quasi-marriage."

If a CIR ends, courts may divide property acquired during the relationship using a fairness analysis similar to divorce, but support rules differ and parenting issues are handled separately under parentage laws.

Many Washington family law cases are resolved without trial.

Mediation, collaborative law, and negotiated settlements are commonly used to reduce conflict and cost. Courts generally require some form of alternative dispute resolution unless there are safety or domestic violence concerns.

It's often helpful to speak with an attorney before filing or making major decisions. I tell everyone who does not have the financial freedom to hire an attorney to go to the county courthouse where they plan to file and ask to speak to a family law facilitator. It's also helpful to look for not-for-profit organizations who offer pro bono or low bono services.

Early advice can prevent costly mistakes, help you understand realistic outcomes, and clarify options. Even if you hope to settle amicably, understanding your legal framework allows you to negotiate more effectively and protect your future.