An uncontested divorce is a type of divorce that involves little to no conflict. This type of divorce does not imply that the couple has no disagreements. Instead, it means that they are able to work out the details of the separation outside of trial. It is possible to negotiate a settlement agreement before the case is even filed. The judge simply incorporates the agreement into a final decree. Uncontested divorces usually require much less in attorney fees, time and frustration.

When the divorce is uncontested, the parties can also feel empowered by resolving their case. An uncontested divorce is not a good “do it yourself” project. Even when the parties agree on what should occur, they often do not know how to put those intentions into a settlement agreement that can accomplish their intentions.

For higher asset or income couples, they often make mistakes by not taking important tax consequences into consideration, especially when dividing a retirement plan or classifying payments to the other spouse for child support or spousal maintenance.

Because legal agreements have long-lasting consequences, it is important to find an attorney with the experience needed to address all of the potential issues that can come up in your case.

Washington Uncontested Divorce Attorneys in Seattle

If you want an uncontested divorce in the greater Seattle area, then contact the attorneys at Law Offices of Shana E. Thompson. We can draft the settlement agreement and complete all of the other paperwork needed for the divorce. We can make sure the process goes off as quickly and smoothly as possible for any divorce case in Seattle, WA. Our uncontested divorce attorneys also serve clients in surrounding cities including Mercer island, Mellevue, Kirkland, Newcastle, Burien, and Renton. We will help you navigate this stressful time.

For uncontested divorce cases in Seattle or Kent in King County, Washington, contact an attorney at Law Offices of Shana E. Thompson. We can help you obtain an uncontested divorce that resolves any issues in the case related to the division of property, maintenance, child support, a parenting plan, and other issues.

Call (206) 712-2756 to get started today.

Information Center on Uncontested Divorce

• Uncontested Divorce Residency Requirements in Washington
• How Long Does It Take to Get an Uncontested Divorce in Washington?
• Uncontested Divorce Attorney Near Me in Washington
• Additional Resources

Uncontested Divorce Residency Requirements in Washington

Residency requirements refer to the length of time you must reside in a state before you’re allowed to seek a divorce. When it comes to divorce, it is a Washington state requirement that you’ve present in the state for a set period of time. If you cannot prove that you or your spouse meet the residency requirement, then your divorce case may be rejected or dismissed.

In Washington, divorcing spouses (contested or uncontested) must meet the state’s residency requirement before the court accepts the case. To prove residency, you must demonstrate at least one the following:

• The filing spouse currently resides in Washington
• Either spouse is a member of the armed forces currently stationed in Washington, or
• One spouse is married to a state resident

Advantages to Settling the Divorce Case Out of Court

At Law Offices of Shana E. Thompson, we understand the advantages that come with settling the case out of court. Most importantly, you can save time, money and frustration. The goal of any settlement is to obtain the best possible results on a short-term basis, but also on a long-term basis. You want to look back on the case years from now and know that you made the right decision for yourself and for your family.

In addition, when separating spouses cannot agree on decisions or come together, the cost to dissolve the marriage can add up. Whether you are contemplating or are in the process of a divorce, one of the main concerns for many is the unpredictability of the financial cost.

The process of an uncontested divorce can follow some of the same steps that happen in a contested divorce. Nevertheless, in an uncontested divorce what makes the process smooth, efficient, and cost-effective is that both individuals are able to come to an agreement, therefore a long period of litigation heading into a trial won’t be necessary.

Having an experienced attorney by your side helps facilitate the next steps in the process and makes sure that the terms in the agreement are reflected in all the paperwork.

How Long Does it Take to Get an Uncontested Divorce in Washington?

In the State of Washington, it takes at least ninety (90) days for the divorce to be finalized after the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage is filed and served on the non-filing spouse. This ninety (90) day waiting period is intended to give the parties a “cooling off” period to see if reconciliation is possible.

Disregarding the ninety (90) days, there are still many factors that can influence the length of the divorce process, including:

• The specific issues that are being contested
• The specific court the divorce is in
• The other party’s attorney
• If both parties are willing to engage in mediation or collaboration
• Child support or spousal support
• Whether the couple decides to pursue a contested divorce versus uncontested divorce

Uncontested Divorce Attorney Near Me in Washington

Although the divorce is uncontested, meeting with an attorney can help in multiple ways. There are various reasons to meet with an attorney and discuss your divorce. For instance, meeting with an attorney earlier in the process can help you develop a strategy on how to approach your particular situation so that all parties can have peace of mind. Also, before signing any documents consulting with an experienced family law attorney can review all the documents and divorce settlement papers to make sure your interest is represented on the paperwork.

Below are some reasons to consult with a qualified attorney:

• You have children – If you have children, there are many things to consider such as child custody, visitation rights, child support, healthcare cost, and much more. Having an attorney that can ensure all and any paperwork related to your child are within their best interest, both short and long-term.

• You have High Assets or High Income – Washington is a community property state, meaning that all property or debt accumulated during a marriage is presumed to belong to both parties. Having an attorney with you can make the complex process for individuals with high assets or high income. An experienced attorney can help you identify your options, make sure your interests are represented and that the decision you reach about property division and spousal maintenance can be beneficial in the short and long term.

• If you have any specific circumstances, for example, if you are a domestic abuse victim, having a seasoned uncontested divorce attorney that represents your best interest and your families can help you understand all your legal options and make sure you are safe.

Additional Resources

Free Uncontested Divorce Forms in Washington – Visit the website of the Washington Courts to find forms for an uncontested divorce or dissolution including the FL All Family 119 Agreement to Join Petition (Joinder). Learn more about ending the marriage or obtaining a legal separation. Find general information instruction for converting the legal separation into dissolution.

Washington Courts –  Visit the Washington Courts to view and download certain divorce forms including summons, petitions for divorce, confidential information and more. The Washington Courts also offers several resources on its webpage regarding court news, jury duty and civic learning.