One of the first questions almost every client asks is, “How long is this going to take?” It’s a fair question, and the honest answer is that it depends — mostly on how much you and your spouse agree on. Still, Washington law gives us a clear floor and some reliable signposts.
The 90-day waiting period
Washington imposes a mandatory waiting period of 90 days from the date the divorce petition is filed and served on the other spouse. The court cannot finalize a divorce before that window closes, even if both spouses agree on everything from day one. Think of 90 days as the earliest possible finish line, not the average one.
Uncontested divorces: fastest
If you and your spouse agree on the major issues — how to divide property and debt, parenting arrangements, child support, and any spousal maintenance — your divorce can often be finalized shortly after the 90-day period ends. These cases move quickly because there are no disputes for the court to resolve.
Contested divorces: longer
When spouses disagree on significant issues, the timeline stretches. Several factors add time:
- Exchanging and reviewing financial information (discovery)
- Negotiation and, often, mediation
- Temporary orders for support or parenting while the case is pending
- Court scheduling, which varies by county and caseload
A contested case involving disputed custody or complex property can take many months, and occasionally longer if it proceeds all the way to trial.
What you can do to keep things moving
You can’t shorten the 90-day period, but you can avoid unnecessary delay: respond to information requests promptly, stay organized with financial documents, and approach negotiation in good faith. Often the most effective way to finish sooner is to resolve as many issues as possible by agreement.
Every divorce is different, and the right strategy depends on your specific situation. If you’re considering divorce in Spokane or anywhere in Eastern Washington, our Spokane divorce attorneys can walk you through the process and a realistic timeline for your case. Contact Schwab Law or call (509) 795-1894.