Split Legal Washington Options Forms For Free

The average fee in WA state is $280. If you cannot afford to pay, you can obtain a fee waiver. Check if the Temporary Order is issued. Such order restrains the couple in some situations until the separation is finalized.

The process is like and uses many of the same forms as divorce. You start by filing FL Divorce Form 203, Petition for Legal Separation. You can get this form from the court forms list at .courts.wa.gov/forms, or you can use one of our Do-It-Yourself packets: File for Legal Separation with Children.

1st Stage: Petition/Response. The petition is the document that says the petitioner wants a divorce. Most petitions are basic documents putting the other side on notice of the case. The petition is filed with the court along with supporting documents and served upon the other spouse, called the respondent.

You can download the Washington State Court Official Divorce Form for free from their website, or attain hard copies of each form from your local courthouse. There is also an online DIY packet with instructions via Washington Law Help.

There's a mandatory waiting period of 90 days from the time you file until the judge can act on your case. Couples should use this time to negotiate the terms of the separation, including property division, financial issues, and child custody. If there are still disputed issues, the judge will decide for you.

In Washington State, the law only requires one spouse to petition for the divorce. Since the other spouse cannot legally prevent the divorce, working with each other to accomplish the divorce amicably is wise and the most affordable approach.