Seattle Family Lawyers that put you first.

Costs vary entirely based on the level of conflict and the complexity of your assets, so we can’t give you a direct answer. See our ‘What will my case cost?’ page for more information.

What we can say, is that currently in King County, the baseline court filing fee is $314. Most Seattle family attorneys charge hourly rates between $300 and $550 (we did a big Washington Family Law study to look into this – you can download it here if you’re interested). 

Beware of any lawyer who guarantees a total cost for a contested case; unpredictable spouses and other circumstances can drive up fees. A family law trial is almost always a terrible idea; resolving issues outside of court is the best way to maintain control of your life and your wallet.

Washington State enforces a strict, mandatory 90-day cooling-off period. The clock starts the day the petition is filed and served on your spouse.

• If you agree on everything, the divorce can be finalized on day 91.
• If your case is highly contested or headed for a judge, expect it to take 9 to 18 months to resolve in King County Superior Court.

Washington courts don’t actually use the word “custody.” Instead, the focus is entirely on the best interests of the child. The court looks at who has been the primary caregiver, the emotional bond with each parent, work schedules, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. A judge’s ultimate goal is to mandate a stable, safe environment for the kids.

Visit our Seattle Custody and Support page to read more.

Family law matters in Seattle are handled by the King County Superior Court. Depending on where you live, your case will be filed at either the downtown Seattle courthouse or the Maleng Regional Justice Center (MRJC) in Kent.

Yes. Washington recognizes Committed Intimate Relationships (CIR). If you and your partner lived together in a marriage-like relationship, pooled resources, and bought property together, the court can divide those jointly acquired assets similarly to a divorce. However, CIRs do not allow for spousal maintenance (alimony) and handle debts differently than a formal marriage.

A Parenting Plan is a legally binding court order that dictates exactly how you and your ex will co-parent. A solid plan removes the ambiguity and covers three main areas:

1. Residential Schedule: Where the children sleep each night, including holidays and vacations.
2. Decision-Making: Who gets a say in major issues like education, healthcare, and religion.
3. Dispute Resolution: The exact process you must follow (like mediation) if you disagree in the future, so you don’t end up back in court over minor squabbles.

If there is a history or threat of domestic violence, you can file for a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO). In King County, these orders can be issued immediately on a temporary basis (ex parte) to legally restrict the abusive party from contacting you or coming near your home, workplace, or children. A full hearing is then held within 14 days to decide if the order should remain in place long-term. Everyone has the right to feel safe – please make sure that you get the legal support you need in seeking a protective order in Seattle.

Yes, but it is an incredibly steep uphill battle. The U.S. Supreme Court and Washington law legally presume that a fit parent knows what is best for their child. To win court-ordered visitation against a parent’s wishes, a grandparent must present clear and convincing evidence that the child will suffer actual harm if the visitation is denied.

You aren’t legally required to have a lawyer present at mediation, but going in blind is a massive risk. The mediator is a neutral party; they cannot give you legal advice or warn you if you are agreeing to a terrible deal. Having an attorney review your financials, prepare your strategy, and advise you during the process ensures you don’t unknowingly sign away your rights.