Divorce for Women in Everett and Snohomish County: What You Need to Know

For women in Everett, divorce is not just a legal procedure—it’s a profound life change that can affect every aspect of your future. Whether you're ending a long-term marriage, returning to the workforce after years of raising children, or seeking protection from abuse, understanding your rights under Washington law is essential to navigating this transition with strength and clarity.

While Washington law treats both spouses equally on paper, the reality is that many protections are especially vital for women, particularly those who’ve spent years managing a household, supporting a spouse, or making career sacrifices for their family. These laws are designed to help ensure fairness when a marriage ends and to support long-term financial and personal stability.

This guide will help you understand how divorce laws apply in Washington and how family courts in Snohomish County typically approach issues like property division, spousal maintenance, parenting plans, and protection orders.

Washington’s community property law assumes that most assets and debts acquired during marriage are shared by both spouses. But division of those assets does not have to be exactly equal. The law instead requires that division be equitable, which means fair under the specific facts of your marriage.

“…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 duration of your marriage, your current financial standing, and whether one spouse made personal or financial sacrifices that contributed to the marriage. If you paused your career to raise children or supported your spouse’s education or business, these contributions must be weighed when property is divided.

Many women in Everett face divorce with limited income or career experience due to years of caregiving or supporting a spouse’s career. In such cases, the court may award spousal maintenance to help you regain financial independence and adjust to post-divorce life.

“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)

When determining whether to award support, the court will look at the length of your marriage, your standard of living, your future earning capacity, and the time and resources you’ll need to become self-sufficient. Support can be short-term or long-term depending on your circumstances and your spouse’s ability to pay.

Washington State no longer uses terms like “custody” or “visitation.” Instead, parents must submit a parenting plan that outlines residential time, decision-making responsibilities, and how each parent will remain actively involved. The court focuses on what is best for the child—not the gender of the 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.”
RCW 26.09.002

Your relationship with your child, your past caregiving role, and your ability to provide a stable and cooperative parenting environment will all be key factors in the court’s decision.

If your relationship involves abuse, harassment, or intimidation, you have legal options. Courts in Snohomish County can issue Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) that immediately restrict your spouse from contacting you or your children, entering your home or workplace, or interfering with your safety.

These orders can be requested on an emergency basis and extended throughout your divorce case if necessary.

If you or your children are in danger, help is available through the Snohomish County Protection Order Assistance Program and local domestic violence advocacy organizations that provide immediate safety planning and legal support.

1. How will child custody and parenting time be determined, and how can I ensure my children’s best interests are protected in Everett?
In Everett, parenting arrangements are governed by a court-approved parenting plan. Washington law focuses on the child’s best interests—not on the gender of the parent. If you have been your child’s primary caregiver, your role will carry significant weight during the court’s review.

“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

Snohomish County Superior Court – Family Law

2. Am I entitled to spousal support (alimony), and how is it calculated in Washington State?
Spousal maintenance may be awarded when one spouse needs financial support to transition to independence after divorce. If you delayed your own career to raise children or support your spouse, the court may award maintenance to ensure a fair outcome.

“…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 consider factors like your income, work history, education, standard of living during the marriage, and how long it may take you to become self-sufficient.

Washington Law Help – Spousal Maintenance

3. How will our assets and debts be divided, and how can I protect my financial future in Snohomish County?
Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are presumed to be community property. However, the law does not require an equal split—it requires an equitable one, based on your unique circumstances.

“…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 weigh your financial situation, your contributions during the marriage (including unpaid labor), and how the outcome will impact your financial future.

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 danger, you can petition for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) through Snohomish County Superior Court. These orders can prohibit your spouse from contacting you or your children and offer immediate legal protection.

You do not need to wait for criminal charges to take action. Civil protection orders are available and can be extended as needed for your safety.

Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County

5. How can I ensure fair child support payments, and how can I enforce a child support order if necessary?
Washington calculates child support using a standardized schedule based on both parents’ incomes and the parenting plan. If your ex fails to pay, the Division of Child Support (DCS) can enforce payment through garnishment, license suspension, or tax refund interception.

Washington State DCS – Child Support Services

At the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we help women in Everett and across Snohomish County navigate the legal and emotional challenges of divorce with clarity and strength. Whether you're seeking fair custody arrangements, spousal support, or protection from abuse, our team is ready to advocate for your best interests.

We understand what’s at stake for women during divorce—your safety, your children, and your financial well-being. Let us help you protect your rights and build a stronger, more secure future.

Schedule your free consultation today and take the first step toward reclaiming control over your life.