What’s the Best Way to Divorce in Washington?

The most efficient way to divorce in Washington is when both spouses are in agreement and are willing to participate in the process. When spouses agree on all terms—such as property division, debts, and parenting arrangements—the divorce can typically proceed as an uncontested divorce, which is usually faster, less expensive, and less stressful.

Divorce is still possible if your spouse is unwilling to cooperate or cannot be located, but those situations require additional legal steps. In general, the simplest and most straightforward way to divorce in Washington is through mutual agreement and proper completion of the required court documents.

Once an agreement is reached, the court requires that specific pleadings and supporting documents be filed, reflecting the agreed terms and confirming that the marriage is irretrievably broken. Washington does not require fault or separation periods beyond statutory waiting requirements.

How Do I Obtain Washington Divorce Documents and Agreements?

Through this website, we offer a way to complete an agreed Washington divorce entirely online, provided your case qualifies. You will answer structured questions based on your situation, and the required documents will be prepared accordingly.

All divorce paperwork is drafted to align with Washington Superior Court rules and procedures. After the documents are prepared, you and your spouse may sign them and proceed with filing. Depending on your county and case type, documents may be filed electronically or submitted directly to the court.

Washington courts are very particular about proper formatting, required disclosures, and statutory timelines. Filing incomplete or incorrect paperwork may delay your divorce or require refiling.

Do-It-Yourself Washington Divorce Forms

If you are searching for Washington divorce forms, it is important to understand the following:

  1. There is no universal set of divorce forms that applies to every Washington divorce case. Required documents depend on whether children, property, or support issues are involved.

  2. Divorce documents are case-specific. Even standardized court forms must be completed carefully to reflect your circumstances. Leaving sections blank or failing to address required issues may prevent the court from entering a final decree.

  3. Many online sources provide only partial form sets, without explaining when each document must be filed or how they interact with court deadlines and service requirements.

  4. Preparing your own divorce documents requires understanding:
    • Which pleadings are required for your case
    • How service must be completed
    • Washington’s mandatory waiting period
    • Whether final orders can be entered without a hearing

For many individuals, navigating these requirements while also managing the emotional aspects of divorce can be overwhelming.

What’s the Best Way to Get Correct Washington Divorce Papers?

If you simply want properly prepared paperwork, this website offers a streamlined and affordable way to complete an uncontested divorce in Washington. If you and your spouse are in agreement, you can answer straightforward questions online and receive the documents needed to move your case forward.

Our Washington divorce document drafting service is offered at a flat fee of $195. For added flexibility, this fee may also be paid in two installments of $99.

This fee covers the preparation of the required divorce documents based on the information you provide and is intended for uncontested Washington divorce cases where both spouses are in agreement on all terms.

In many uncontested Washington cases, a court appearance is not required, and the judge may review and sign the final orders once all documents are complete and properly filed. Accuracy is critical, as Washington courts may reject filings that do not meet procedural requirements.

Warning About Divorce Kits and Typing Services

Many so-called “online divorce” websites do not involve attorneys and instead offer typing or document-filling services only. These services typically insert your answers into generic templates without evaluating whether the documents are appropriate for your case or sufficient under Washington law.

Because these providers are not legal professionals, they cannot advise you on required forms, procedural steps, or legal consequences. In some cases, documents generated by typing services may be rejected by the court or fail to resolve key legal issues.

What Documents Are Usually Required in Washington?

The documents required in a Washington divorce vary depending on whether the case involves children, property, or support issues, and may also vary by county. Each divorce case is unique, and courts may require additional documents based on the facts presented.

Common documents in a Washington uncontested divorce may include:

  • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
  • Summons
  • Confidential Information Form
  • Proof of Service (or Acceptance of Service)
  • Final Divorce Order (Decree of Dissolution)
  • Findings and Conclusions About a Marriage

If minor children are involved, additional documents are typically required, such as:

  • Parenting Plan
  • Child Support Order
  • Child Support Worksheets

Some cases may also require:

  • Financial Declarations
  • Declarations Supporting Final Orders

For clarity, these documents are generally divided into two categories:

  1. Cases without minor children
  2. Cases involving minor children

Because Washington courts may update forms or impose county-specific filing requirements, it is always recommended to ensure your documents are prepared accurately and in compliance with current court rules.