Spousal Support in Kent, Washington – A Practical Guide

Spousal maintenance—often referred to as alimony—is a court-ordered financial arrangement intended to support one spouse during or after divorce. In Kent and across King County, spousal maintenance is used to help ensure that both spouses can transition into post-marital life with a fair and reasonable level of financial stability. Whether you are the potential recipient or the paying party, understanding your rights and obligations under Washington law is key.

If you're preparing for divorce, negotiating a separation, or seeking to change an existing support order, this page offers a reliable overview of how courts in Kent evaluate spousal support claims. We’ll explore how Washington law applies, the role of property classification, and the real-world factors judges use when awarding or modifying support.

Defining Community Property in Kent “Property not acquired or owned, as prescribed in RCW 26.16.010 and 26.16.020, acquired after marriage… is community property.”
— RCW 26.16.030(1)
What it means: In Washington, community property includes all income and assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage, such as wages, investment income, and property purchases. In Kent, the King County Superior Court considers the value of this jointly owned property when reviewing financial need and support obligations. While community property is usually divided during divorce, it can also inform whether one spouse needs additional support to maintain financial equilibrium.

Property Owned Before Marriage
“Property and pecuniary rights owned by a spouse before marriage… shall not be subject to the debts or contracts of his or her spouse.”
— RCW 26.16.010
What it means: Assets that a spouse owned prior to the marriage, or received by gift or inheritance, are generally classified as separate property. These assets are usually not divided, but they may still influence spousal maintenance decisions. If one party holds substantial separate assets, it could reduce their need for financial support or increase their capacity to contribute to the other’s post-divorce adjustment.

Calculating Spousal Support Amount in King County
“The maintenance order shall be in such amounts and for such periods of time as the court deems just… after considering all relevant factors including but not limited to:”
— RCW 26.09.090(1)
What it means: Washington does not impose a strict formula for calculating alimony. Instead, judges in Kent look at multiple statutory factors: the duration of the marriage, standard of living, each spouse’s earning potential, health, education, and financial responsibilities. The aim is fairness—not punishment—and decisions are made based on the totality of each spouse’s financial situation. It’s important to note that Washington is a no-fault divorce state, so issues like infidelity are not considered when calculating support.

Eligibility for Alimony
“The court may grant a maintenance order… in such amounts and for such periods of time as the court deems just, without regard to misconduct.”
— RCW 26.09.090(1)
What it means: In King County, either spouse can request maintenance, regardless of gender or the reason for divorce. The key question is whether support is necessary and whether the other party is financially able to pay. The court may award short-term support to help a spouse pursue education or job training, or long-term support if the marriage was lengthy or one party left the workforce for family reasons.

Spousal Support Order Modifications
“The provisions as to property disposition may not be revoked or modified, unless the court finds the existence of conditions that justify the reopening of a judgment…”
— RCW 26.09.170(1)
What it means: Unlike property settlements, spousal maintenance orders can be modified when there's a substantial change in circumstances. Common reasons include job loss, a new health condition, or major income fluctuations. If you're in Kent and your situation has shifted dramatically, you may be able to request a modification to your existing support order through the King County Superior Court.

Understanding how spousal support works in Kent is crucial to planning for life during and after divorce. Whether you're pursuing or contesting maintenance, speaking with a knowledgeable family law attorney can ensure your financial interests are fully represented and your future protected.

1. What does community property mean for divorcing couples in Kent?
In Washington State, community property includes most income and assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage. This typically covers wages, retirement contributions, real estate, and business earnings. Even if only one spouse’s name is on the account or deed, it is generally presumed to be jointly owned. In Kent, when the court divides community property, that division can directly influence spousal support, particularly if one spouse ends up with fewer resources or ongoing financial need.
Helpful Link: Washington LawHelp – Property & Debt Division

2. Will property I owned before the marriage be factored into spousal support?
Separate property, like a home purchased before marriage or an inheritance received individually, is typically not divided during divorce. However, it can still impact a spousal maintenance award. If the court in Kent sees that one spouse has substantial separate assets, it may reduce or deny a request for alimony, especially if the other spouse has fewer financial obligations.
Helpful Link: Northwest Justice Project – Divorce FAQs

3. How is spousal support determined in Kent?
There’s no preset formula for calculating alimony in Kent or throughout King County. Judges look at a variety of factors, including how long the couple was married, the standard of living during the marriage, and the financial outlook for each spouse post-divorce. A key goal is fairness—helping a financially dependent spouse transition without unnecessary hardship. The King County Superior Court handles all local determinations.
Helpful Link: King County Superior Court

4. Who qualifies to receive spousal maintenance?
Any spouse can request spousal maintenance during or after divorce, regardless of gender or the reasons behind the separation. The court’s primary focus is whether one spouse has a legitimate need and the other has the ability to help. Temporary support may be granted during proceedings, and long-term maintenance may be awarded based on the circumstances of the marriage and the parties’ financial futures.
Helpful Link: Washington LawHelp – Dividing Property and Debts

5. Can I change my spousal support order after divorcing in Kent?
Yes. If your financial situation has changed dramatically—such as losing a job, facing a serious illness, or experiencing a change in income—you can petition the court for a modification. In Kent, these requests are handled through King County Superior Court, and the judge will review whether the change justifies a revised spousal support arrangement.
Helpful Link: Washington Courts – Family Law Forms

Work With a Kent Spousal Support Attorney Who Understands Your Financial Future
Spousal maintenance is about much more than monthly payments—it’s about long-term stability during a major life transition. Whether you’re requesting support or defending against it, having a local Kent attorney who knows the law and the King County court system can make a real difference in the outcome.

At the Law Offices of Jason S. Newcombe, we’ve spent decades helping clients like you in Kent and across King County manage the legal and financial challenges of divorce. Whether you’re initiating spousal support, responding to a claim, or seeking a modification, our experienced legal team is here to help.

Schedule your free consultation today and take the next step with confidence.