Divorce in Washington: Laws, Requirements, and Process
A complete guide to getting a divorce in Washington. Covers grounds, residency requirements, property division, alimony, child custody, and what to expect from the process.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Property division: Community property.
- Residency requirement: Resident of Washington state or stationed in Washington as a member of the armed forces.
- Waiting period: 90 days from filing and service.
- Filing fee: $280 - $350.
Grounds for Divorce
Washington allows no-fault divorce. The no-fault ground is: Irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.
Washington is a pure no-fault state. No fault-based grounds are available.
Residency Requirements
Resident of Washington state or stationed in Washington as a member of the armed forces.
Property Division
Washington is a community property state. Washington is a community property state. Community property and community liabilities are divided in a 'just and equitable' manner, which is not necessarily 50/50. The court may also consider the separate property of each spouse. Courts weigh the nature and extent of the community property, the economic circumstances of each spouse, and the duration of the marriage.
Alimony / Spousal Support
Washington courts may award maintenance (spousal support) based on the financial resources of the requesting spouse, the time needed for education or training, the standard of living during the marriage, the duration of the marriage, the age and health of the requesting spouse, and the ability of the other spouse to meet their own needs while paying maintenance.
Child Custody
Washington uses the term 'residential schedule' and 'parenting plan' instead of custody. Courts determine arrangements based on the best interest of the child, considering the relative strength, nature, and stability of the child's relationship with each parent, agreements of the parents, each parent's past and potential future parenting, and the child's needs.
Child Support
Washington uses the income shares model. Child support is calculated using both parents' combined net incomes, the number of children, the residential schedule, and additional costs for health insurance, childcare, and educational expenses.
Filing Fee
The filing fee for divorce in Washington is $280 - $350. Fee waivers may be available for those who cannot afford to pay.
Washington court divorce resources
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the grounds for divorce in Washington?
Washington is a pure no-fault divorce state. The only ground for dissolution of marriage is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage. Washington does not recognize fault-based grounds.
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How long do you have to live in Washington to file for divorce?
At least one spouse must be a resident of Washington state or a member of the armed forces stationed in Washington. There is no specific minimum residency duration required.
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How is property divided in a Washington divorce?
Washington is a community property state. Community property is divided in a just and equitable manner, which may or may not be 50/50. The court may also consider each spouse's separate property.
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How long does a divorce take in Washington?
Washington has a 90-day waiting period from the date of filing and service. Uncontested divorces can be finalized shortly after the 90-day period. Contested cases may take 6 months to over a year.