In Washington, divorce petitioners must follow specific laws when ending their marriage. The laws require waiting periods to give the defendant time to answer and proof of residency before the case starts. A Divorce Lawyer in Sumner WA provides assistance for all petitioners who want to start a divorce case now.
Choosing the Divorce Grounds
The divorce grounds start with an irretrievable breakdown which indicates that neither party was at fault. Fault-based divorce grounds require the petitioner to present evidence of the wrongful action. For example, if the petitioner lists adultery as the grounds, they must provide evidence of an extramarital affair. Photographs, video footage, and emails could substantiate the petitioner’s claim.
Determining Child Custody
Child custody is determined after each parent is evaluated. However, if the couple can reach an agreement about custody, the parents can create their own plan for custody. If the court must make the determination, the couple is evaluated to determine which parent is the most suitable choice for the child. Any risks that are present could disqualify a parent for custody.
Separating the Assets
All marital assets are separated during a divorce case. The court requires an equal division of the assets. The marital home, automobiles, and additional assets acquired during the marriage are separate between the two parties. In some cases, the couple could alternate who lives in the marital home if they have shared custody of the child.
Alimony and Spousal Support
Alimony is provided if the couple has been married a substantial amount of time. Temporary alimony could present assistance for a spouse during the divorce case. The payments could continue until the spouse completes an educational program. Permanent alimony is provided when the couple has been married at least ten years.
In Washington, divorce petitioners identify their preferred grounds for their divorce according to the circumstances that end their marriage. The cases start with the delivery of the divorce summons to the defendant. The couple must also have a divorce agreement. If the defendant doesn’t agree to the terms, they must respond within sixty days. Petitioners who are ready to file contact a Divorce Lawyer in Sumner WA now.
