Washington is a no-fault state. The petitioner and the respondent file in Superior Court. No hearing is required in an uncontested divorce (dissolution) that is filed jointly with the cooperation of both spouses. This is the most common type of pro se divorce filed in the state of Washington.

A divorce (dissolution) by default is when a respondent fails to file a response within 20 days of receiving the petition. In that case, the petitioner moves along the uncontested divorce track and files a motion for an order allowing judgment by default.

After filing the motion and order allowing judgment by default, Washington law requires await a minimum of 90 days after the respondent is served to finalize the dissolution. Once the 90 days has expired the petitioner may apply for a general judgment of dissolution of marriage. The judge signs the judgment and other appropriate documents, and the spouses are divorced. Learn more about attending a Washington divorce hearing.

Other Helpful Information for Doing Your Own Divorce in Washington

• Washington Divorce Laws
• Washington Divorce Basics
• Considering a Washington Divorce
• Do it Yourself Divorce in Washington
• The Residency Requirements to File for Divorce in Washington
• Washington Divorce Court Information
• Washington Divorce Documents
• Save Money When Doing Your Own Divorce in Washington