Everett, WA family law attorney Sabrina Layman provides an overview of the divorce process in Washington State. She explains that in Washington state, the divorce process is designed to balance equities and fairness based on the facts of each case. It begins with the filing of a petition to dissolve the marriage and concludes with a final divorce order, which grants each party independence. While the minimum statutory timeframe to complete a divorce is 90 days from filing, most cases take longer due to the need to balance the interests and requests of both parties and what is legally feasible.

During the process, the parties undergo discovery, which involves identifying and valuing all assets, debts, and financial resources. This information is then organized, often in a detailed financial spreadsheet, to facilitate equitable division. The duration and cost of a divorce depend on multiple factors, including the level of financial transparency, the cooperation of both parties, and the overall complexity of the case.

Attorneys handling the case work to resolve matters as efficiently and effectively as possible, considering both the emotional and financial impact on their clients. Throughout the process, the value of reaching a resolution is often recognized as the most significant aspect of the case. In essence, the divorce process involves filing the petition, completing discovery, and concluding with a final divorce order, with the timeline largely influenced by the cooperation and actions of both parties.