For women in Olympia, divorce marks more than the legal end of a marriage—it is a significant life transition that may affect your finances, your home, your parenting role, and your overall security. Whether you’re leaving a long-term relationship, re-entering the workforce after years of caregiving, or seeking safety from domestic abuse, knowing your rights under Washington law is essential.
Although Washington’s divorce laws are gender-neutral, many of the protections built into the process are particularly relevant for women, especially those who have supported their families through unpaid labor, child-rearing, or personal career sacrifice. These legal safeguards are designed to help ensure a fair and stable outcome for both you and your children.
This guide provides an overview of how divorce law works in Washington and what to expect in Thurston County family courts regarding property division, spousal support, parenting plans, and domestic violence protection.
Property and Asset Division Must Be Equitable, Not Necessarily EqualWashington is a community property state, which means assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally considered jointly owned. However, courts are not required to divide everything 50/50. Instead, the law directs them to divide property in a way that is fair and considers your unique situation.
“…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
When dividing property, the court will look at the length of your marriage, your financial needs, and the roles you and your spouse played during the relationship. If you stepped away from a career to raise children or helped your spouse grow a business, those efforts will be recognized and factored into the outcome.
Spousal Support in Thurston County Reflects Need and Future Earning CapacityWomen in Olympia often face divorce after years of contributing to their households in non-financial ways. If you need financial support to regain your independence—whether through education, job training, or simply time to adjust—the court has the authority to award spousal maintenance.
“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
The court considers the duration of the marriage, your standard of living, current financial resources, and your future earning potential. Spousal support may be temporary, rehabilitative, or long-term depending on your needs and your former spouse’s ability to contribute.
Parenting Plans in Olympia Are Based on the Child’s Best InterestsWashington law requires divorcing parents to submit a parenting plan instead of assigning custody and visitation. These plans outline how decisions will be made, where the child will live, and how parenting time will be shared. Courts do not give preference to mothers or fathers based on gender.
“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 evaluate each parent’s past caregiving role, the emotional bond with the child, and the ability to provide a stable, cooperative environment. If you’ve been the child’s primary caregiver, this history will play a key role in the court’s decision-making process.
Legal Protections Are Available for Women in Olympia Facing Domestic ViolenceIf your divorce involves abuse, coercion, or threats, you can petition the Thurston County Superior Court for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO). These orders can restrict your spouse from contacting you or your children, entering your home or workplace, or otherwise disturbing your peace.
Emergency orders are available, and longer-term protections can be put in place while your divorce is pending or finalized. You do not need to file criminal charges to seek this protection.
Support is available through the Family and Juvenile Court of Thurston County and local domestic violence advocacy organizations such as SafePlace Olympia. These resources can help you navigate the protection order process and develop a long-term safety plan
Frequently Asked Questions: Divorce for Women in Olympia and Thurston County1. How will child custody and parenting time be determined, and how can I ensure my children’s best interests are protected in Olympia?
In Olympia, parenting arrangements are determined through a court-approved parenting plan. Washington law requires that these plans prioritize the child’s well-being above all else—not the gender of the parent. If you’ve been the primary caregiver, that role will be an important 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
Learn more: Thurston County Superior Court – Family & Juvenile Court
2. Am I entitled to spousal support (alimony), and how is it calculated in Washington State?
Spousal maintenance can be awarded if one spouse needs financial support after divorce to become self-sufficient. If you set aside your career to support your spouse or raise children, the court may grant support to help you rebuild financial independence.
“…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
The court will examine your current financial position, past earning history, education level, and the standard of living you experienced during the marriage.
Learn more: Washington Law Help – Spousal Maintenance
3. How will our assets and debts be divided, and how can I protect my financial future in Thurston County?
Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered community property in Washington. That said, division isn’t always 50/50—the court aims to make a decision that is fair based on each spouse’s 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 judge will consider your financial needs, your non-financial contributions (such as parenting or homemaking), and the long-term impact of the divorce on your stability.
Learn 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 a dangerous situation, you can request a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) through the Thurston County Superior Court. These orders can immediately prevent your spouse from contacting or approaching you or your children.
Protection orders are available even without criminal charges and can be requested on an emergency basis.
Learn more: SafePlace Olympia – Domestic Violence Advocacy
5. How can I ensure fair child support payments, and how can I enforce a child support order if necessary?
Child support is calculated using a statewide schedule that considers both parents’ incomes and the parenting plan. If your former spouse isn’t paying, the Division of Child Support (DCS) can help collect what’s owed through wage garnishment, asset seizure, or license suspension.
Learn more: Washington State DCS – Child Support Services
Talk to an Olympia Divorce Attorney Who Supports Women’s RightsAt the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we are committed to supporting women in Olympia and throughout Thurston County during one of life’s most challenging transitions. Whether you’re working to protect your children, establish financial independence, or ensure your safety through legal action, our team is here to provide the trusted guidance you need.
We understand the unique challenges women face during divorce—and we’re here to help you face them with clarity, confidence, and strength.
Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward reclaiming your future and your peace of mind.