Like most other states, Washington has a mandatory waiting period before a couple’s divorce can be finalized. Traditionally, the waiting period was designed as a “cooling off” period, where the parties could attempt to reconcile their differences. The waiting period is required, even if there’s no chance of reconciliation and the spouses have already settled everything. Furthermore, as negotiations take time to complete, a divorce may take over 90 days. Read on to learn more about the waiting period and how family law lawyers in Spokane can help you through it.
When Does the Waiting Period Start?
The clock starts ticking only after the petition is filed and the required documents are submitted to the court and served to the other spouse. With these actions, the process officially starts. Therefore, if you’re unsure of your spouse’s whereabouts, you’ll probably have trouble serving them properly. In other cases, a spouse may fail to respond, which lengthens the process.
Uncontested Divorces
In these cases, spouses agree on important issues such as child support and property division. In an uncontested divorce, it’s possible to use the waiting period to negotiate and reach a favorable settlement agreement. If you and your spouse can come to an agreement before the waiting period ends, you can request that the divorce be finalized on day 91.
Why Should I Hire a Lawyer?
Divorce cases are complex, and you’ll need to work with family law lawyers in Spokane to learn about your obligations and rights. With their legal knowledge, local attorneys will help you make the right decisions for yourself and your family. Lawyers will answer all your questions, put your mind at ease, and help you through difficult times.
Divorce is never easy even when it’s amicable. However, with help from a family attorney, you and your spouse can get through the waiting period, finalize your divorce, and move on with your lives.
