Spokane Contested Divorce Lawyer

Navigating Challenging Divorce Cases in Washington

Are you facing the challenging prospect of a contested divorce in Washington? The Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt is here to provide you with the expertise and guidance you need during this difficult time. We specialize in contested divorce cases and are dedicated to confidently helping our clients navigate the complex legal process.

Call the Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt today at (509) 571-2277 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our contested divorce attorney in Spokane!

What is a Contested Divorce?

A contested divorce is where spouses disagree on critical issues related to their divorce. These issues include child custody and visitation, property division, spousal support, and more. When a couple cannot come to a resolution through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative divorce methods, their case is considered contested.

Both parties hire legal representation in a contested divorce to present their case to the court. It's essential to have a skilled attorney who can protect your rights and assets during this process.

Contested Divorce Requirements in Washington

Specific requirements must be met in Washington before a contested divorce can proceed. These requirements include:

Residency: You or your spouse must have been a resident of Washington for at least six months before filing for divorce. This residency requirement is essential to establish the jurisdiction of the Washington courts.
Grounds for Divorce: Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means neither party must prove fault to obtain a divorce. Common grounds for divorce include incompatibility or irreconcilable differences.
Filing a Petition: To initiate a contested divorce, one spouse must file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the court. The other spouse is then served with a summons and a copy of the petition.
Response: The served spouse has a limited time to respond to the petition, usually 20 days. If they fail to respond, the court may enter a default judgment in favor of the petitioner.
Division of Property and Debts: In contested divorces, the court must determine the equitable distribution of marital assets and debts. This can be a contentious issue and often requires presenting evidence and legal arguments.
Child Custody and Support: If the divorcing couple has children, issues related to child custody, visitation, and child support must be addressed. The court's concern is the best interests of the child.
Spousal Support (Alimony): The court may also need to decide whether one spouse is entitled to spousal support and, if so, the amount and duration of such support.

How Long Does a Contested Divorce Take?

The duration of a contested divorce in Washington can vary widely depending on several factors. On average, contested divorces may take several months to a year or more to be resolved.

Here are some factors that can influence the timeline of a contested divorce:

Complexity of Issues: The more complex the issues in dispute, the longer it may take to resolve. Issues such as property division and child custody can be particularly time-consuming.
Court Scheduling: The availability of court dates and the court's caseload can affect the timeline. In some cases, you may need to wait for a hearing or trial date, which can add to the duration of your case.
Negotiation and Mediation: The process can be expedited if both parties are willing to negotiate and agree on specific issues. Mediation can also help resolve disputes outside of court.
Legal Strategies: The strategies employed by your attorney can impact the speed of your case. Effective legal representation can streamline the process and protect your interests.

It's important to understand that contested divorces can be emotionally draining and financially costly, but our team at the Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt is committed to helping you navigate this challenging period efficiently and effectively.

Contact Our Spokane Contested Divorce Attorney Today

Facing a contested divorce in Washington is undoubtedly a challenging experience, but with the proper legal representation and guidance, you can confidently move forward. The Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt supports you throughout the process, assuring your rights are defended and your interests are advocated for.

Contact the Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt today to schedule a consultation with our contested divorce lawyer in Spokane!

Client Testimonials

Hear From Families Like Yours

“Their attention to details is in my opinion what sets them apart from other law offices and I would recommend them to everyone I know, knowing they will do an exceptional job just as they have done for me in the past.”

Nick B.
“You won’t find a better lawyer!”

Bennett family
“I've recommend him already to many people and will continue moving forward. Thank you again Ben and your staff members.”

Craig A.
“Fair and honest services.”

Jon T. Spokane, WA
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Luke P.
“Highly recommend.”

Karli C.
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Casey W.
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Jim Z.
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Jean C.
“He explains everything to you and is very patient. He is awesome in the court room and did everything in his power to get me what I wanted!”

Jessica H.
“Benjamin did a phenomenal job!”

Sergey Y.
“The Law Office of Benjamin D. Platt are diligent,caring, and effective. This is the firm you want!”

Jenna C. Spokane, WA
“Their attention to detail is, in my opinion, what sets them apart from other law offices, and I would recommend them to everyone I know.”

Kristine S.

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