Divorce: A Few Basics
The Petition: A divorce action is started by filing a Summons and Petition for divorce with the Court and serving copies on the other party (spouse). Filing a Petition requests that the Court dissolve the marriage, divide the property and debts, or additionally establish a parenting plan and support as necessary. This first step is necessary for the Court to grant you a divorce.
Final Divorce Order (Dissolution Decree): The final divorce order is the final document granting a dissolution of the marriage and sets forth the final terms for all issue of the marriage; such as property, debts, residence with the children, etc. Before the final divorce order can be granted, 90 days must pass from the time the petition was filed. There are three ways a final divorce order can be granted after the 90-day period has passed.
1. A default is entered against the other party who has failed to respond.
2. The parties have reached an agreement and have signed the final papers.
3. The parties have gone to trial and a judge made a ruling and entered the decree.
The divorce process can be emotionally difficult and complex. Decisions made about each step of the litigation can affect you for many years. We have years of experience helping our clients through the difficulty of divorce and can help you through the process. Contact us today at (253) 838 – 3377 or email at Office@bainslawfirm.com, to talk about your divorce.
Disclaimer: All materials provided on this website have been prepared by Bains Law Firm for general information purposes only and no representation is made as to their completeness or accuracy. Information on this website is not intended as legal advice, and may not be relied upon as such. Only an attorney who can review the unique facts of each case and apply them to the statutes, case law and court rules can provide legal advice. Nothing in this website shall be construed to create an attorney-client relationship.
