For women in Auburn, going through a divorce often means confronting a complex mix of legal, financial, and emotional challenges. Whether you're ending a long-term marriage, preparing to re-enter the workforce after years of caregiving, or seeking protection from an abusive relationship, understanding your legal rights is essential to protecting your future.
Divorce is more than just the end of a marriage—it’s a legal transition that can reshape nearly every part of your life. Washington’s laws are designed to apply equally to both spouses, but many of the protections built into the process are especially critical for women, particularly those who have supported their families through unpaid labor, child-rearing, or sacrifices in their own careers.
This guide will help you understand how Washington divorce laws apply to your situation and how the courts in King County approach important issues like property division, support, parenting plans, and protection orders.
Property and Asset Division Must Be Equitable, Not Necessarily EqualWashington follows community property laws, meaning that assets and debts acquired during a marriage are generally considered jointly owned. However, the law does not require everything to be divided 50/50. Instead, the court is required to divide property in a way that is fair under the circumstances.
“…the court shall, without regard to misconduct, make such disposition of the property and the liabilities, either community or separate, as shall appear just and equitable after considering all relevant factors…”
RCW 26.09.080
The court will consider the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial situation, whether one party sacrificed income or career opportunities, and how the division will affect your financial stability. Contributions like supporting your spouse’s education or managing the household while raising children are considered in determining what is equitable.
Spousal Support in King County Reflects Need and Earning PotentialMany women in Auburn face divorce with limited income or career history due to years spent raising children or supporting a spouse’s career. Washington law allows courts to award spousal maintenance—also known as alimony—when one party needs help becoming financially independent.
“In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage… the court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse or either domestic partner…”
RCW 26.09.090(1)
The court will assess your income, future earning potential, the standard of living during the marriage, and how long you may need to gain financial independence. Maintenance may be temporary, long-term, or rehabilitative depending on your unique situation.
Parenting Plans in Auburn Are Based on the Child’s Best InterestsIn Washington, courts no longer refer to custody and visitation. Instead, divorcing parents must submit a parenting plan that outlines where the child will live, how decisions will be made, and how both parents will stay involved. Gender does not determine parenting time—what matters is the child's emotional and physical needs.
“The best interests of the child are served by a parenting arrangement that best maintains a child’s emotional growth, health and stability, and physical care.”
RCW 26.09.002
The court will examine your role as a caregiver, your relationship with your child, and your ability to provide a stable, supportive environment. Your willingness to cooperate with the other parent and promote your child’s well-being will also be taken into account.
Legal Protections Are Available for Women Facing AbuseIf you are dealing with domestic violence, controlling behavior, or harassment, you do not have to wait for criminal charges to seek legal protection. King County courts can issue a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) to limit your spouse’s ability to contact you or your children, or to enter your home or workplace.
Temporary orders can be granted the same day you file, and longer-term protections are available throughout the divorce process. These orders are designed to give you immediate safety and long-term peace of mind.
If you or your children are in danger, support is available through the King County Protection Order Advocacy Program and other local organizations that provide resources and legal guidance for survivors.
Frequently Asked Questions: Divorce for Women in Auburn and King County1. How will child custody and parenting time be determined, and how can I ensure my children’s best interests are protected in Auburn?
In Auburn, parenting decisions are guided by a formal parenting plan—not traditional “custody” labels. Courts evaluate each parent’s role and focus entirely on what arrangement best supports the child’s emotional and physical development. If you’ve been your child’s primary caregiver, the court will give that role serious consideration.
“Parents have the responsibility to make decisions and perform other parental functions necessary for the care and growth of their minor children.”
RCW 26.09.002
Find out more: King County Family Court – Parenting Plans
2. Am I entitled to spousal support (alimony), and how is it calculated in Washington State?
Spousal maintenance is often awarded when one spouse needs financial help transitioning to independence. If you paused your career to raise children or support your spouse’s work, the court may grant maintenance to support your recovery and financial stability.
“…the court may grant a maintenance order… in such amounts and for such periods of time as the court deems just.”
RCW 26.09.090(1)
The court will assess your income, education, job skills, and standard of living during the marriage to determine what’s fair.
Find out more: Washington Law Help – Spousal Maintenance
3. How will our assets and debts be divided, and how can I protect my financial future as an Auburn resident?
Most assets and debts acquired during your marriage are presumed to be community property. But division is not always equal—Washington law requires that it be fair based on your personal and financial situation.
“…the court shall… make such disposition of the property and the liabilities… as shall appear just and equitable after considering all relevant factors…”
RCW 26.09.080
The court will consider factors like the length of your marriage, whether you made career sacrifices, and your ability to maintain financial independence after the divorce.
Find out more: Washington Law Help – Property and Debt Division
4. What are my rights if I’ve experienced domestic violence or abuse, and how can I ensure my safety and my children’s safety?
If you are in an unsafe situation, you can request a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO). This order can prohibit your spouse from contacting you, entering your home or workplace, or coming near your children. Emergency orders are often granted the same day you file.
Relative Statute: RCW 7.105.100
You do not need a criminal case to seek protection orders. Protections are available through the civil court process and can be extended as needed.
Find out more: King County Protection Order Advocacy Program
5. How can I ensure fair child support payments, and how can I enforce a child support order if necessary?
Washington uses a standard formula to calculate child support based on both parents’ incomes and the parenting plan. If the other parent fails to pay, the Division of Child Support (DCS) can assist with enforcement through wage garnishment, license suspension, or other measures.
Find out more: Washington State DCS – Child Support Services
Talk to an Auburn Divorce Attorney Who Protects Women’s RightsAt the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we help women in Auburn and throughout King County navigate divorce with strategic legal support and strong advocacy. Whether you’re focused on protecting your children, securing fair financial support, or ensuring your safety, our team has the experience to guide you through this challenging time.
We understand the real-world concerns that women face during divorce. Our goal is to protect your rights, preserve your financial future, and help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward rebuilding your life and securing your future.