Divorce Lawyer Bellevue
Divorce is more than just a legal process—it’s an emotional and life-changing experience that impacts your family, finances, and future. If you’re facing divorce in Bellevue, Washington, it’s essential to have a divorce lawyer who understands not only the law, but also the complexities of today’s evolving family structures. At Enright Family Law, we offer compassionate, intelligent, and strategic divorce representation tailored to modern families.
Whether your case involves children, property, or high conflict, we’re here to help you navigate the process with clarity, confidence, and care. With offices in San Diego and Bellevue, we are happy to help you with your family law case.
Understanding Divorce in Washington State
In Washington, divorce is legally referred to as a dissolution of marriage. The state is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove wrongdoing to end your marriage. It is sufficient to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”
Residency Requirement
To file for divorce in Washington:
- You or your spouse must currently reside in the state.
- There is no minimum residency period, but you must be a resident at the time of filing.
Divorces are filed in county Superior Courts. If you live in Bellevue, your case will typically be handled in King County Superior Court.
The Divorce Process in Bellevue
Here is a general outline of what to expect when filing for divorce in Bellevue:
- Petition for Divorce: One spouse (the petitioner) files the necessary documents with the court.
- Service of Process: The other spouse (the respondent) is formally served and given a chance to respond.
- Temporary Orders: If needed, temporary orders may be issued for custody, support, and use of shared property while the case is pending.
- Discovery: Both parties exchange financial and other relevant information.
- Negotiation or Mediation: Many cases are resolved through informal negotiation or mediation before trial.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial where a judge makes the final decisions.
- Final Decree: The court issues a final decree of dissolution, officially ending the marriage.
The process typically takes a minimum of 90 days from the date of filing, though contested cases may take longer.
Key Issues in a Washington Divorce
Property Division
Washington is a community property state, meaning all assets and debts acquired during the marriage are considered equally owned and will be divided equitably—though not always equally. This includes:
- Real estate
- Bank accounts and investments
- Business interests
- Retirement accounts
- Debts and loans
We work to ensure that your financial interests are protected and that all assets are properly accounted for.
Spousal Support (Maintenance)
Spousal support may be awarded depending on factors like:
- The length of the marriage
- Each spouse’s income and earning potential
- The standard of living established during the marriage
- The age and health of both parties
- Contributions to the marriage, including homemaking or caregiving
Our goal is to negotiate or advocate for fair support agreements that consider your long-term financial stability.
Child Custody and Parenting Plans
If children are involved, creating a parenting plan is mandatory. The plan addresses:
- Where the child will live
- Visitation schedules
- Decision-making responsibilities
- Holiday and vacation schedules
- How future disputes will be resolved
The court’s standard is the best interest of the child, with an emphasis on maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents.
At Enright Family Law, we take a child-centered approach to custody, helping parents build parenting plans that promote consistency, cooperation, and well-being.
Child Support
Washington has a child support schedule used to determine monthly payments. Calculations are based on:
- Each parent’s income
- Number of children
- Parenting time
- Childcare, medical, and educational expenses
We help ensure accurate financial disclosure and equitable support arrangements that protect your child’s needs.
Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce
Uncontested Divorce
In an uncontested divorce, both spouses agree on all terms, including property division, support, and custody. This process is faster, less expensive, and usually less stressful. It may be resolved entirely through paperwork and minimal court appearances.
We help Bellevue clients draft and file comprehensive settlement agreements that are legally sound and court-ready.
Contested Divorce
If there are disagreements, the case becomes contested and may require court intervention. High-conflict divorces often involve:
- Disputes over custody or relocation
- Accusations of misconduct
- Business or high-asset property division
- Complex financial or parenting issues
As experienced litigators, we’re prepared to advocate for your interests in court—while also exploring resolution opportunities along the way.
Divorce and Modern Families
At Enright Family Law, we serve modern families in all forms, including:
- LGBTQ+ couples
- Blended families with stepchildren
- Unmarried parents separating after long-term partnerships
- Families with long-distance parenting arrangements
- Couples using alternative reproductive methods or surrogacy
We understand that your family’s structure may not look traditional, and that’s not just okay—it’s expected. We offer inclusive, affirming legal services that respect your identity, values, and family story.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Not every divorce needs to go to trial. We frequently work with clients to resolve disputes through mediation, collaborative divorce, or settlement negotiation. These alternatives offer:
- Lower legal costs
- Greater control over the outcome
- Faster resolution
- Less emotional stress
We help you determine whether alternative dispute resolution is right for your case and guide you through the process with confidence.
Why Choose Enright Family Law
Our Bellevue clients choose us because we offer:
- Personalized, attentive legal service
- Strategic thinking rooted in real-world experience
- Deep understanding of modern families and evolving definitions of marriage and parenting
- Honest advice with a focus on long-term outcomes
- Strong courtroom advocacy when needed, with a preference for cooperative resolution where possible
We believe in protecting your rights while supporting your next chapter, whether you’re ending a marriage or redefining your family.
How We Can Help
At Enright Family Law, we help Bellevue families navigate divorce with clarity, respect, and legal strength. We’re more than lawyers—we’re your partner through transition.
We can help you:
- File for divorce and prepare legal paperwork
- Negotiate fair property, support, and custody agreements
- Draft or review parenting plans and support orders
- Represent you in mediation, hearings, or trial
- Modify or enforce existing family court orders
Contact Enright Family Law today to schedule a consultation with a trusted divorce lawyer in Bellevue. We’re here to protect your future—and help you move forward with purpose.