Where To File for Divorce In Seattle, WA

Divorce is never an easy journey, but understanding the process can help alleviate some of the stress. If you’re considering filing for divorce in Seattle, specifically in King County, it’s important to know where to start, the requirements, and the costs involved. This guide will walk you through the essentials, providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the process.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before filing for divorce in King County, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria:

» Residency Requirement: Either you or your spouse must be a resident of King County. This means living in the county for at least 90 days before filing.

» Legal Grounds: Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means you do not need to prove wrongdoing by either party. The only grounds for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.

Step 2: Prepare The Necessary Documents

To file for divorce in King County, you will need to complete and submit specific forms:

» Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: This form officially requests the court to dissolve your marriage.

» Summons: Notifies your spouse of the divorce proceedings.

» Confidential Information Form: Provides personal details necessary for the court records.

» Certificate of Dissolution: This form will be completed at the end of the divorce process.

Step 3: Filing The Forms

You can file your completed forms in person or online:

In Person: Visit the King County Superior Court Clerk’s Office at either the Seattle or Kent location.

Seattle Location: King County Courthouse, 516 Third Avenue, Room E-609, Seattle, WA 98104.

Kent Location: Maleng Regional Justice Center, 401 Fourth Avenue N, Room 2C, Kent, WA 98032.

Online: Use the Washington State Courts’ e-filing system, which can be accessed through the King County Superior Court website.

Step 4: Pay The Filing Fee

The cost to file for divorce in King County is approximately $314. If you cannot afford this fee, you may apply for a waiver by completing a Fee Waiver Request form and submitting it along with your other documents.

Step 5: Serve Your Spouse

Once you’ve filed your forms, you need to legally notify your spouse by serving them with copies of the documents. This can be done through:

• Personal Service: Have someone over the age of 18, who is not involved in the case, hand-deliver the papers to your spouse.
• Certified Mail: Send the papers via certified mail with a return receipt requested.
• Publication: If you cannot locate your spouse, you may request to serve by publication in a local newspaper.

Step 6: Wait For A Response

After being served, your spouse has 20 days to respond if they reside in Washington, 60 days if they reside out of state, or 90 days if they are out of the country. If your spouse does not respond within the allotted time, you may proceed with a default judgment.

Step 7: Attend Court Hearings

If your spouse contests the divorce, you may need to attend court hearings to resolve disputes. These hearings will address issues such as property division, child custody, and support. If both parties agree on all terms, the process may be quicker and less contentious.

Step 8: Finalize The Divorce

Once all issues are resolved, the court will issue a Decree of Dissolution of Marriage, officially ending your marriage. This final step can take a minimum of 90 days from the date your spouse was served.

Conclusion

Modern Family Law

At Modern Family Law, we understand the challenges of divorce proceedings in Seattle, Washington. Our experienced attorneys offer personalized guidance, support, and answers, leveraging innovative technology to streamline the legal process. We are dedicated to achieving the best long-term outcomes for your family. Contact us for a consultation to address your needs and concerns every step of the way.