Puyallup Divorce FAQs

How is child custody determined in Puyallup?

In most Washington cases, the laws and the courts’ application of those laws advance the public policy that minor children should have frequent and continuing contact with both parents. Three major child custody matters need to be resolved during the divorce process: the residential schedule, the decision-making authority, and the parenting plan. If you are a parent facing divorce, it is imperative that you speak with a Washington divorce attorney as soon as possible. Read our Guide to Getting a Divorce in Washington State to familiarize yourself with Washington parenting and child support laws.

Should I mediate?

Some couples participate in mediation to work out the details of their divorce outside of court. Usually, both spouses attend mediation with their attorneys, and a third party mediator facilitates discussion and negotiation. Most of the time, people choose to participate in mediation to resolve their differences, but sometimes they participate in mediation because they are ordered to do so by a judge. Mediation can be a good alternative to trial if both parties are willing to communicate. Most Washington courts require that parties attempt to mediate prior to attending a trial.

Who pays each parties’ attorney and legal fees?

In a divorce case, you should be prepared to pay your own legal fees. It is most common in Washington State for each party to pay his or her own legal fees, unless there is bad faith by one party or a considerable difference in the parties’ financial situations. When a party requests that the other side pay his or her legal fees, the court applies a basic two-pronged test, 1) does the person making the request have a financial need, and 2) does the person being asked to pay have the ability to pay.

How long does a divorce take in Puyallup?

A qualified divorce attorney can give you an idea of how long your divorce may take. In Washington, there is a mandatory 90 day waiting period after a petition is filed before your divorce can be finalized. Most divorces take between four and eighteen months. Read our Guide to Getting a Divorce in Washington State to learn about factors that contribute to the length of a divorce.