Contested Divorce Lawyer Bellevue
Divorce is a difficult and deeply personal process, and for many couples in Bellevue, the road to separation isn’t always smooth. When spouses cannot agree on key issues such as property division, custody, or support, the case becomes a contested divorce. While emotionally and legally complex, a contested divorce is sometimes the necessary path to ensure fairness and protect the rights of everyone involved.
At Enright Family Law, we understand that families today don’t always follow traditional patterns. We work with modern families—including blended households, LGBTQ+ couples, and co-parents with unique dynamics—who need strategic legal support during one of life’s most challenging transitions. With offices in San Diego and Bellevue, we are happy to help you with your family law case.
What Is a Contested Divorce?
A contested divorce occurs when spouses are unable to agree on one or more major issues related to the dissolution of their marriage. These disputes can involve:
- Division of assets and debts
- Spousal maintenance (alimony)
- Child custody and parenting plans
- Child support
- Relocation or move-away requests
- Business valuation or property ownership disagreements
When disagreements arise, the case requires court intervention. This includes formal discovery (information gathering), negotiation, mediation, and sometimes a full trial where a judge makes the final decisions.
Grounds for Divorce in Washington
Washington is a no-fault divorce state, which means the only legal basis for divorce is the statement that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.” You don’t have to prove wrongdoing such as infidelity or abandonment. However, misconduct may still affect decisions related to parenting, finances, or safety.
In contested cases, even though the reason for the divorce is not in question, the terms of separation often are.
The Contested Divorce Process in Bellevue
Contested divorce cases in Bellevue fall under the jurisdiction of King County Superior Court. Here’s a general outline of the process:
1. Filing the Petition
One spouse (the petitioner) initiates the divorce by filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. The other spouse (the respondent) is formally served and has a set time to respond.
2. Temporary Orders
Either party can request temporary court orders to address immediate concerns such as:
- Child custody and visitation
- Temporary support
- Use of property or residence
- Restraining orders
These orders remain in effect until final resolution and can strongly influence the outcome of the case.
3. Discovery
Discovery is the legal process of exchanging information, including:
- Financial records
- Property valuations
- Business documents
- Parenting history and communication
This phase is essential for building a solid case.
4. Mediation
Washington courts often require contested divorce cases to attempt mediation before going to trial. A neutral third party helps the couple try to reach agreements on disputed issues. Mediation can reduce court time and allow for more personalized solutions.
5. Trial
If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial. A judge will hear both sides, review evidence, and make final rulings on all unresolved issues.
Trials can take several days or even weeks, depending on the complexity of the case.
Key Issues in a Contested Divorce
1. Property Division
Washington is a community property state, which means most property acquired during the marriage is considered jointly owned and must be divided fairly. However, “fair” does not always mean “equal.” The court considers:
- The length of the marriage
- Each party’s financial situation
- Contributions to the household or family business
- Separate vs. marital property distinctions
High-net-worth cases, family businesses, or disputes about what is separate vs. community property often make contested divorces more complicated.
2. Spousal Support (Maintenance)
One spouse may request financial support, either temporarily or long-term. The court evaluates:
- Length of the marriage
- Income and earning potential of both spouses
- Standard of living during the marriage
- Age and health of each party
There’s no formula in Washington, so the amount and duration of spousal support is often contested and highly fact-specific.
3. Child Custody and Parenting Plans
Parenting is often the most emotional part of any contested divorce. If parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court must decide based on the best interest of the child.
The court considers:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- The parents’ ability to co-parent
- History of domestic violence or substance abuse
- Each parent’s involvement in the child’s daily life
- The child’s preference (if old enough and mature)
Bellevue judges aim to preserve stability and relationships while promoting safe, cooperative parenting.
4. Child Support
Child support is calculated using Washington’s Child Support Schedule, which considers:
- Each parent’s income
- Number of children
- Residential schedule
- Daycare, health care, and educational expenses
Even if custody is shared, one parent may still owe support depending on income differences.
Special Considerations for Modern Families
Today’s families may face additional complications in a contested divorce, such as:
- Blended families and step-parent involvement
- LGBTQ+ parents navigating biological vs. legal parentage
- Unmarried partners disputing property or parenting rights
- Long-distance co-parents with relocation concerns
- Professional couples with complex asset portfolios
At Enright Family Law, we recognize that standard legal templates don’t always fit real life. Our goal is to represent families with empathy and precision, ensuring your values and goals are reflected in your case.
Why Contested Divorce Takes Time
Unlike uncontested divorce, which can be resolved in just a few months, contested divorce can take 12 to 24 months or longer. Delays are often due to:
- Disputes over custody or finances
- The discovery process
- Court scheduling
- Expert involvement (e.g., business valuators, custody evaluators)
The length of the process often adds emotional and financial strain, which is why skilled legal counsel is crucial to guide you through and advocate on your behalf.
Can You Settle During a Contested Divorce?
Yes. Many contested divorces start with disagreement but end with settlement. Mediation, negotiation, and temporary orders often help spouses move toward resolution before reaching trial.
At Enright Family Law, we focus on strategic settlement wherever possible—but we’re also fully prepared to represent you in court when necessary.
How We Can Help
At Enright Family Law, we support individuals and families in Bellevue who are facing the complexities of contested divorce with strength, strategy, and a deep understanding of today’s evolving family dynamics.
We offer:
- Clear legal advice from the first filing through final resolution
- Skilled representation in negotiations, mediation, and court
- Creative, family-centered solutions tailored to your unique situation
- Transparent communication, personalized service, and trusted guidance
- Protection of your rights and your children’s best interests
Whether you’re in the early stages of divorce or deep into a high-conflict case, contact Enright Family Law today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you move forward—intelligently, respectfully, and with confidence.