If you and your spouse file for divorce, having an experienced divorce lawyer in Bremerton by your side can make all the difference.
Dellino Family Law provides unwavering support and fiercely fights for you so you can finalize your divorce with minimal issues. The legal process and emotional toll can feel overwhelming at times, but you can turn to us for advice and representation.
When you hire a Bremerton family lawyer, you receive exceptional service from start to finish. Our team has over 180 years of combined experience, which means we are equipped to help you with even the most challenging of situations. Our team is skilled at de-escalating conflicts and provides a neutral perspective and compassionate support when you need it the most.
Choose a Bremerton Divorce Attorney You Can Trust
No matter how you look at it, divorce is often hard on all parties involved. Even in situations where it may be amicable, adjusting to this change in your life and its ripple effects can take time to process. In worst-case scenarios, having someone who can fight for you and help create space between you and your spouse can be invaluable.
Dellino Family Law leverages our strong network of relationships and resources to help you get results and understand ways to survive divorce with your sanity intact.
We provide guidance on a variety of issues and build a strong case to make sure you receive maximum protection throughout your divorce. Our attorneys can also provide you with resources and tools to help you prepare for life beyond divorce.
Furthermore, we take the time to build a relationship with you during your case so we can provide you with the service you deserve and the support you need. We value your questions and your time, and we are loyal to you from beginning to end.
Bremerton Couples Must Adhere to Washington’s Divorce Process
To initiate a divorce, a petition must be filed with the court to dissolve the marriage. Generally, one spouse files for divorce and then serves the other spouse with papers.
The spouse that has been served typically has 20 days to respond to the divorce papers and either agree or contest the terms outlined within. Conversely, couples can also choose to file for divorce jointly if they are in agreement.
Once all court forms are filed and served, couples are subject to a 90-day waiting period before they can finalize their divorce. During this time, couples can work on dividing up their assets, discuss alimony, and navigate custody decisions if children are involved. Unless a couple is in agreement on all or most aspects of their divorce, this process can be lengthy and take longer than the waiting period.
A divorce can be finalized after a couple has passed the waiting period and reached an agreement on all terms. Judges review and sign off on the terms of the divorce to finalize it and officially dissolve the union.
If a divorce is highly contentious or faces other legal issues, then the terms of a divorce and any disputes may be litigated before a judge, who can issue a judgment in the matter.
How Washington Approaches Asset Division During a Divorce
Washington is a community property state, as defined by RCW 26.16.030. This means that all assets a couple acquired during their marriage are considered marital property and are subject to asset division during a divorce.
Any assets that a spouse had before their marriage or personally inherited are considered separate property (RCW 26.16.010) and do not have to be divided.
When dividing marital property, Washington does not necessarily split everything down the middle, per se. Rather, they take a “just and equitable” approach, per RCW 26.09.080.
This means that the court may take various factors into consideration when deciding what is fair. The duration of the marriage and the financial situation of both parties are considered.
For example, the spouse who has primary physical custody of the couple’s children may receive the home in the divorce. Similarly, if one spouse is at a financial disadvantage, they may receive certain assets that can help them get back on their feet faster.
Each couple’s situation is different, so it is highly beneficial to consult a divorce attorney in Bremerton to estimate what you may be entitled to receive.
Determine if Spousal Maintenance Orders May be Applicable in Your Divorce
As assets are divided, the financial situation for each spouse may change. For some couples, one spouse may notice more of a drastic change than the other.
When a spouse is at an economic disadvantage, they may petition for spousal maintenance, also known as alimony. For example, a spouse who has been a homemaker may have a harder time finding employment and supporting themself after a divorce.
According to RCW 26.09.090, several factors are considered when determining eligibility for spousal maintenance. The contribution to and duration of the marriage, the financial situation of each party, and the age and health of both partners are taken into account when granting this request and determining payment amounts. If spousal maintenance is granted, it is a binding court order that must be followed.
Spousal maintenance can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of the individual and couple. Temporary support can be used to help a spouse during the divorce, while permanent support is applicable after the divorce and lasts as long as the terms of the order. Some types of alimony are used just for the duration a spouse needs to acquire additional skills and secure employment.
Dellino Family Law Helps You Navigate Your Divorce
Dellino Family Law knows how difficult a divorce can be, and we are here to support you and provide resources to help you through this emotional and challenging time in your life.
A Bremerton divorce lawyer protects your interests and fights for you throughout your entire divorce. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your options and how we can help you.