Legal Separation Laws in Washington
Posted by Separation - 29/01/09 at 08:01 pmLegal Separation Laws in Washington
In Washington, legal separation is somewhat similar to dissolution except that the parties are still married but are living separately. Under the legal separation laws in Washington, the assets and liabilities of both parties are to be divided equally and the issues regarding their children and parental responsibilities will be heard in the court. The reasons behind the filing of legal separation may be the need for space or to live apart from the spouse or the preference not to dissolve the marriage totally.
Based on the Revised Code of Washington, the party filing for legal separation is a resident of the State of Washington or a member of the Armed Forces assigned in Washington. Unlike other laws, under the legal separation laws in Washington, even if one of the parties disagrees, the court will still proceed with the hearing process. It also accepts separation or property settlement agreements wherein the parties have entered a contract between themselves. However, if the court found out that the agreement is not fair, it has the discretion to overrule since the laws acts in equitable manner.
The suits for legal separation are filed in the superior court through summons and petitions. After six months that the separation order was entered, it can be translated into a divorce depending on the decision of the parties. It is advisable to consult an attorney in filing the suit since they have the knowledge in the legal separation laws in Washington and proceedings and the preparations that must be done prior to the filing.
