Considering Divorce in Renton or King County? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you're facing divorce for the first time in Renton or anywhere in King County, you likely have more questions than answers—and that's completely normal. Whether you're concerned about child custody, dividing assets, or your financial future, understanding Washington’s divorce laws can help you take the next steps with greater clarity and confidence.

Whether you're just considering divorce or have already received paperwork, knowing what to expect will help you protect your rights and your family.

Washington is a “no-fault” divorce state. That means you don’t need to prove that your spouse did anything wrong. The only legal basis needed is that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” In most cases, marital misconduct like infidelity will not affect decisions related to property division, support, or parenting.

Here are a few key points:

• Either spouse must live in Washington to file for divorce.
• There is a mandatory 90-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.
• Washington’s community property laws mean most assets and debts acquired during the marriage are presumed to be jointly owned.
• If children are involved, the court will require a parenting plan and a child support order before granting a final divorce.
  

For more on filing in your area, visit:
King County Superior Court – Family Law

In Washington, child custody is structured through a parenting plan, which addresses where the child will live, how decisions will be made, and how each parent will stay involved. Courts in King County aim to ensure the child maintains a strong relationship with both parents—unless there are proven safety concerns.

Informative link:
Washington Courts – Parenting Plans

Spousal maintenance is not automatic. Instead, it’s based on need and ability to pay. The court looks at several factors, including:

• The length of the marriage
• One spouse’s financial dependence on the other
• Time needed to become self-supporting
• Each spouse’s income and expenses

Support may be short-term, transitional, or long-term in rare cases involving older spouses or lengthy marriages.

Informative link:
Washington Law Help – Divorce & Separation

Renton residents going through divorce are subject to Washington’s community property laws, which generally presume that any assets or debts acquired during the marriage belong equally to both spouses. However, this doesn’t mean the court will split everything 50/50.

The court considers:

• Whether the property is community or separate
• The financial circumstances of both spouses
• The length of the marriage
• Non-financial contributions, such as raising children or managing the home

Informative link:
Washington Law Help – Who Gets What in a Divorce?

1. What will happen to my children, and how will custody or visitation be decided?
In Washington, child custody decisions are made through a parenting plan that prioritizes the best interests of the child. The court will evaluate each parent’s role in caregiving, emotional bonds with the child, and the ability to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.

“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.”
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.002 – Best Interests of the Child
Informative link: King County Family Court – Parenting Plans

2. How will our finances be divided, and will I be financially stable after the divorce?
Washington’s community property system assumes that all assets and debts acquired during the marriage belong to both spouses. The court will divide this property fairly, but not necessarily equally, after evaluating factors like income, debt, property type, and post-divorce needs.

“…the court shall… make such disposition of the property and the liabilities… as shall appear just and equitable after considering all relevant factors…”
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.080 – Property and Debt Division
Informative link: Washington Law Help – Property & Debt in Divorce

3. How long will the divorce process take, and how much will it cost?
Washington law requires a minimum 90-day waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. If both parties agree on the terms, the process may be relatively quick. Contested divorces—especially those involving children or complex assets—can take several months or more. Costs vary based on whether mediation or litigation is needed.
Informative link: Washington Law Help – Divorce Overview

4. What are my legal rights in Renton, and how can I protect myself?
You have the right to request spousal support, a fair division of property, and a parenting plan that supports your child’s needs. If domestic violence or intimidation is an issue, you can seek a protection order through the court.

“In a proceeding for dissolution of marriage… the court may grant a maintenance order for either spouse…”
Read the statute: RCW 26.09.090 – Spousal Maintenance
Informative link: Washington Law Help – Legal Separation and Divorce

5. How will this divorce affect my emotional well-being and relationships?
Divorce is both a legal and emotional process. It can reshape family dynamics, friendships, and your personal well-being. While courts focus on legal rights and obligations, your emotional health may impact parenting evaluations. Support from professionals, trusted family, and community resources is essential.
Informative link: Washington State DSHS – Family Support Resources

Divorce may feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right legal guidance, you can face the process with clarity and confidence. At the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we help individuals across Renton and King County protect what matters most: their children, their financial future, and their peace of mind.

Whether you need assistance negotiating a parenting plan, understanding your property rights, or pursuing spousal support, we’re here to advocate for your goals.

Our divorce services in Renton include:

• Alimony (Spousal Maintenance)
• Child Custody and Parenting Plans
• Child Support
• Divorce for Men and Women
• Property Division
• Protection Orders and Restraining Orders
• Prenuptial Agreements

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward clarity, protection, and a secure future.