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Guide to Uncontested Divorce in Washington

December 23, 2025

Uncontested / Simple Divorce in Washington (Agreed Dissolution): A Plain-English Guide

Thinking about an uncontested divorce in Washington State and hoping to keep it as simple and affordable as possible? You’re not alone. Many couples agree the relationship is over — they just want a clean, organized way to move forward without turning it into a long court fight.

In Washington, the official legal term is Dissolution of Marriage (not “divorce”). And when spouses agree on the major issues, the case is often called an Agreed Dissolution.

This guide explains, in plain English, how a simple Washington dissolution works — who qualifies, what the basic steps look like, how the 90-day waiting period affects timing, and how a DIY approach (with the right structure) can fit into the process.

Important: PlainDivorce is not a law firm, and this article is legal information only, not legal advice. Court procedures and forms can change, and counties may have local requirements. Always confirm details with official Washington court resources or a Washington family law attorney before you file.

Washington privacy warning (hard stop): Washington courts are strict about protected identifying information. In most cases, you should not place Social Security numbers or other protected identifiers in public filings. Washington uses a separate confidential form that is filed outside the public file (explained below).

Table of Contents

uncontested divorce in Washington

1. What Is an Uncontested or Simple Divorce in Washington?

In Washington, a “divorce” is officially a Dissolution of Marriage. Washington is a no-fault state, meaning you do not have to prove misconduct. You generally file by stating the marriage is irretrievably broken (not fixable).

A case is commonly called uncontested (or “simple”) when you and your spouse agree on the big issues and you can present the court with a complete set of final paperwork to approve.

The Washington “golden keyword”: Agreed Dissolution

An Agreed Dissolution is the cleanest version of an uncontested case. In an agreed case, the Respondent typically signs paperwork confirming they agree with the Petition for Dissolution and the proposed final orders.

The “magic document”: Joinder

In Washington, the Joinder is one of the most important trust-signal documents in a truly uncontested case. A Joinder is basically the Respondent’s written “I agree.” It confirms the Respondent is joining the case and agreeing to move forward on an agreed basis.

Why this matters: When the Respondent signs a Joinder (properly completed and filed), it often eliminates the need to pay for formal service by a sheriff or process server — because the Respondent is voluntarily joining the case instead of requiring service.

The other common path is a Default Dissolution (your spouse is served but does not respond). Default can still be “uncontested” in the sense that no one fights, but it’s usually more technical and can be slower if service is difficult.

2. Who Qualifies for an Agreed Dissolution in Washington?

2.1 Residency and where to file

Washington does not have a long “must live here for X months” rule like some states. In general, you may be able to file if you live in Washington, your spouse lives in Washington, or you have a qualifying military connection (for example, stationed here).

You usually file in the Superior Court of a Washington county that has a connection to you or your spouse (often where one of you lives). Counties may have local forms or filing steps, so check your county clerk’s website.

2.2 No-fault grounds

Washington is a no-fault dissolution state. You generally allege the marriage is irretrievably broken. That is the standard “no-fault” basis for most agreed cases.

2.3 What makes a case truly “agreed”

Your case is usually a strong fit for an Agreed Dissolution if:

  • You both want to end the marriage.
  • You can exchange basic financial information honestly.
  • You agree on:
    • How to divide property and debts
    • Whether there will be spousal support (maintenance)
    • If you have children: a parenting plan and child support
  • The Respondent is willing to sign the Joinder (or other agreed paperwork) so the case stays clean and uncontested.

If there is domestic violence, intimidation, hidden assets, or major disagreement about children or finances, it’s usually wise to pause and get legal advice before attempting a DIY agreed dissolution.

3. Step-by-Step Overview of the Washington Agreed Dissolution Process

Every county has local procedures, but most agreed dissolutions follow the same core structure.

Step 1 – Confirm you’re aiming for an Agreed Dissolution (not a fight)

  • At least one of you qualifies to file in Washington.
  • You’re comfortable filing no-fault (irretrievably broken).
  • You can realistically reach agreement on property, debts, and (if applicable) children.

Step 2 – Make your agreement “court-ready”

Even if you agree informally, the court expects clarity. For a smooth agreed dissolution, you want your terms to be consistent across the paperwork:

  • Property & debts: who gets what, who pays what, and whether there will be any equalizing payment.
  • Spousal support: set it clearly (amount/duration) or clearly waive it.
  • Children (if applicable): parenting plan terms and child support based on Washington’s worksheets/schedule.

Step 3 – Prepare the key Washington dissolution documents (with form codes)

Washington uses standardized statewide “pattern forms” with specific form codes. In an agreed case, you will commonly see:

  • Summons (often FL Divorce 200)
  • Petition for Dissolution (often FL Divorce 201)
  • Confidential Information Form (hard stop privacy form, FL All Family 001)
  • Joinder (often FL All Family 119)
  • Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law (often FL Divorce 231)
  • Decree of Dissolution (often FL Divorce 241)
  • Vital Statistics Certificate (Department of Health form, often referenced as DOH 422-027)

Privacy reminder: The Confidential Information Form (FL All Family 001) is where protected identifying information belongs. It is filed as confidential. If you include protected identifiers in public documents, you can trigger delays or re-filing requirements.

Step 4 – File with the Superior Court clerk (and pay the filing fee or request a waiver)

You file your initial paperwork in the Superior Court for your county. The dissolution filing fee is significant and can change. Some counties publish updated fee amounts, and older online resources may show outdated numbers, so verify your current fee with your county clerk.

If you cannot afford the fee, ask the clerk about the process to request a waiver or reduction.

Step 5 – Keep it agreed: use Joinder instead of paying for service (when possible)

If your spouse is cooperative, one of the smoothest ways to keep the case uncontested is for the Respondent to sign the Joinder (and any required agreed documents). This often avoids the cost and hassle of formal service.

If your spouse will not sign Joinder at the beginning, you generally must arrange legal service of the Summons and Petition. After service, your spouse has a deadline to respond (which can differ depending on where they’re served). If they never respond, the case may move toward default, which is still possible but less “clean” than an agreed dissolution.

Step 6 – Observe the 90-day waiting period (plan your earliest possible finish date)

Washington has a mandatory 90-day waiting period. Even if you agree on everything and file immediately, the court generally cannot finalize the dissolution until the 90 days have run from filing and proper notice/service (or the Respondent’s participation via joinder).

  • Day 0: File the case (and complete service or file Joinder)
  • Days 1–90: Waiting period runs; fix any clerk issues; finalize signatures
  • Day 91+: Earliest window to present final orders for signature (timing depends on county process and backlog)

Step 7 – Finalize (often through an “agreed/ex parte” process) and receive your Decree

In many counties, agreed cases do not involve a traditional “trial.” Instead, after the waiting period, you typically present a final paperwork packet through your county’s uncontested/agreed process (for example, an ex parte department, an agreed docket, or an “orders for review” queue).

Some counties charge a small order presentation fee for agreed orders submitted through an ex parte process. Always check your county’s instructions so you submit final orders in the correct place and with the correct fee (if any).

Once the judge signs the Decree of Dissolution (and any related final orders) and the clerk enters it, your marriage is legally ended. Ask the clerk about getting certified copies for name change paperwork, retirement accounts, lenders, and other official needs.

4. Special Issues When You Have Children

Agreed dissolutions involving children are common, but courts pay special attention to anything affecting kids.

  • Parenting plan: residential schedule, holidays, decision making, dispute resolution, and practical logistics.
  • Child support: usually based on Washington worksheets and the state schedule, with any deviations explained.
  • Safety issues: if there’s domestic violence, abuse, or serious substance misuse, the case may not be appropriate for a “simple DIY” approach without legal help.

Many counties also require a parenting seminar or additional local steps. Always check your county’s Superior Court family law instructions.

5. How Long Does an Agreed Dissolution Take in Washington?

The fastest possible timeline is driven by the 90-day waiting period. Real-world timing is often longer because couples need time to negotiate terms, gather signatures, fix paperwork issues, and follow county-specific procedures.

  • Preparation: often 2–6 weeks (varies widely)
  • Waiting period: 90 days minimum (cannot be skipped in most cases)
  • Finalization: after Day 91, depending on your county’s agreed/uncontested process and paperwork completeness

Common delays include service problems (if no Joinder), incomplete forms, inconsistent dates, missing privacy/vital-statistics items, or a backlog in the county’s review/signing process.

6. What Does a Washington Dissolution Cost?

Costs vary by county and by how cooperative the process is. Typical categories include:

  • Filing fee: paid to the Superior Court clerk when you open the case (verify your county’s current amount; some counties have posted updates effective mid-2026).
  • Service fees: can often be avoided in agreed cases if the Respondent signs a Joinder instead of requiring formal service.
  • Ex parte / agreed order presentation fee: some counties charge a small fee to submit agreed orders for signature through an ex parte process.
  • Notary/copy fees: for signatures, copies, and certified orders.
  • Parenting class fee: if your county requires it (cases with children).
  • Optional professional help: mediation or a limited-scope attorney consult to review final documents.

If you cannot afford court fees, ask the clerk about a fee waiver or reduction process.

7. When a DIY Dissolution Might Not Be Right for You

A DIY agreed dissolution can work well, but it’s not the best fit for everyone. Consider legal advice if:

  • There is domestic violence, threats, stalking, or coercion.
  • You suspect hidden assets, hidden debt, or dishonest income reporting.
  • You have complex finances (business ownership, major retirement assets, stock options, significant separate property disputes).
  • You have major disagreement about parenting, relocation, or child safety.
  • Immigration or public-benefit issues could be affected by the dissolution terms.

Even one paid hour with a Washington family lawyer can be a smart “risk check” if your situation isn’t straightforward.

8. Where a Self-Help Divorce Kit Fits Into the Process

Handling a Washington dissolution without a lawyer doesn’t mean you have to guess your way through it. A structured self-help kit can help you:

  • Understand how an Agreed Dissolution works in Washington (and how it differs from default).
  • Stay organized around the 90-day waiting period and county procedures.
  • Use checklists so you don’t miss key items like the Confidential Information Form (FL All Family 001) and the vital statistics certificate.
  • Keep your agreed paperwork consistent so the judge can sign without sending you back for corrections.

Download Our Washington Uncontested Divorce Self-Help Kit

9. FAQ: Washington Agreed Dissolution (Timeline, Fees, Court, Service)

What is an uncontested or simple divorce in Washington?

In Washington, a “simple” divorce is typically an uncontested dissolution where both spouses agree on the terms and present a complete final paperwork packet for the judge to approve.

Do we have to go to court for an agreed dissolution?

Often, agreed cases are finalized through a county’s agreed/uncontested process (sometimes an ex parte department or “orders for review” process). Some cases still require an appearance, depending on the county and the issues involved.

How long is the waiting period in Washington?

Washington has a mandatory 90-day waiting period. Even if everything is agreed, final orders generally cannot be signed until the waiting period has run from filing and proper notice/service (or Joinder).

Can we avoid service fees?

In many agreed cases, yes. If the Respondent signs and files a Joinder, that can eliminate the need for formal service. If the Respondent will not sign Joinder, formal service is usually required.

What is the “Confidential Information Form” and why does it matter?

The Confidential Information Form (FL All Family 001) is a required privacy companion form used to keep protected identifiers out of the public file. Missing or mishandling privacy requirements can cause filing delays or re-submission requirements.

10. Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Starting a dissolution is both emotional and logistical, even when it’s fully agreed. The upside in Washington is that many couples can complete an Agreed Dissolution without a courtroom fight if they stay organized, keep their paperwork consistent, and respect the 90-day waiting period.

  • Confirm eligibility to file in Washington and pick the right county.
  • Reach clear agreement on property, debts, support, and (if needed) parenting/child support.
  • Use the Joinder strategy when possible to keep the case agreed and reduce service hassle/cost.
  • Respect privacy rules by using the required confidential companion form for protected identifiers.
  • Verify local rules with your county Superior Court and clerk. Procedures and fees vary and can change.

Again: PlainDivorce is not a law firm and this is legal information only. Before you rely on any specific step, confirm current requirements with official Washington court sources or a Washington family law attorney.

About Harry D

Expert contributor at PlainDivorce, helping Canadians and American navigate simple uncontested divorces with clarity and confidence.