Washington State Laws
Updated for 2026
Washington Divorce Laws
Your complete guide to divorce in Washington. Community property state with pure no-fault grounds.
Understanding Washington Divorce Law
Property Division
Washington is a Community Property state.
Just and EquitableGrounds for Divorce
No-Fault Only: Irretrievable breakdown of marriage
No-Fault OnlyParenting Plan
Washington requires detailed parenting plans in custody cases.
Parenting Plan RequiredChild Support
Uses the Income Shares Model.
Income Shares ModelParenting Plan Factors
1
Relative strength and nature of relationship with each parent
2
Each parents agreement or proposed parenting plan
3
Past and potential future performance of parenting functions
4
Emotional needs and developmental level of child
5
Childs relationship with siblings
6
Wishes of parents and child
7
Employment schedule of each parent
8
Any history of domestic violence
9
Any history of substance abuse
Spousal Maintenance
Temporary Maintenance
During proceedings
Short-Term Maintenance
Rehabilitative support
Long-Term Maintenance
Extended support for long marriages
Key Statutes
RCW 26.09.030
Grounds for Dissolution
Irretrievable breakdown
RCW 26.09.080
Property Division
Just and equitable division
RCW 26.09.187
Parenting Plan
Best interests factors
Recent Changes
2024
Parenting Plan Updates
Washington updated parenting plan requirements.
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