Sometimes, one or both spouses come to the conclusion that dissolving the marriage in court is in the best interests of everyone involved. People may reach this decision for many reasons, whether it be infidelity or simply an inability to get along. In the state of Washington, you don’t need to have a specific reason to end your marriage. However, even if you and your spouse have both voiced a desire for divorce, it is still best to consult an experienced attorney before you proceed.
About Divorce in Washington
During a Washington divorce, you and your spouse must settle several different issues before the marriage can be legally ended. Some of these issues include:
- Division of Property – You and your spouse must decide how you will divide all of the property you have accumulated during the marriage.
- Division of Debt – If you have debts, you and your spouse must decide which debts each of you will be responsible to pay.
- Child Custody – If you and your spouse have children, a formal custody and visitation agreement will be required.
- Child Support – In most cases, Washington courts will require the noncustodial parent to make child support payments to the custodial parent during and after divorce.
- Alimony – In some cases, the court may order one spouse to pay alimony to the other.
While some divorcing spouses are able to agree on all of these issues in negotiations outside of court, others must go to trial and allow the court to decide.
Hiring an Attorney
When proceeding with a divorce, careful consideration is recommended. If children are involved, their well-being should be maintained as a priority in order to minimize their exposure to conflict. The issue of finances, debt and property are also very important considerations. While it is important to protect yourself, you should try not to be combative with your spouse immediately. Disagreements are not inevitable during divorce, and you may find that your spouse is willing to negotiate more than you think. Regardless of the situation, however, it is still important to consult a qualified attorney who is able to give you the advice and guidance you need.
If you are facing divorce in the state of Washington, contact Collier Law Office today for your free consultation.