How to File for Divorce in Vancouver, Washington
- 1). Confirm that you and your spouse meet Washington's residency requirements to file for divorce in the state. Under Washington divorce law, you or your spouse must be residing in state on the day that your petition to file for the dissolution of your marriage is filed. You or your spouse may also be a member of any armed force stationed in the state.
- 2). Obtain a copy of a petition for dissolution of marriage. This form is available on the official Washington State Courts website. You can also obtain a copy by visiting or calling the Clark County Clerk's office (1200 Franklin St., Vancouver, WA 98660; 360-397-2292).
- 3). Fill out the petition for dissolution of marriage. You may want a lawyer to assist you. To fill out the petition, you will need to include your name, address and birth date; your spouse's name, address and birth date; the names of the children you currently share custody of, if applicable; the grounds you wish to cite for your divorce; the date and place where you were married; whether you and your spouse are legally separated; why you believe the court you are filing the petition with has jurisdiction over your case; information regarding property and property division; information regarding debts and liabilities; and whether maintenance, also known as spousal support, is being requested.
- 4). Deliver the form to the Clark County Clerk's office along with the required $280 filing fee (fee current as of April 2010). Your spouse will then be served with the divorce papers and must respond within 20 to 60 days. If the spouse agrees to all parts of the petition, the divorce can be finalized within three months. However, if there is any disagreement, a court date will be set to work out the details.
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