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Spokane Divorce Attorney

Ending a marriage is rarely simple. Even when both spouses agree on the basics, Washington divorce law involves property division, support calculations, parenting plans, and court filings, each with its own deadlines, legal requirements, and complexities.
At Hodgson Law Office, our Spokane divorce attorneys handle these details so you can focus on what comes next. We take the time to understand your situation, explain your options clearly, and represent you with the kind of steady, practical advocacy that actually moves your case forward.
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Compassionate and Effective Divorce Representation in Spokane, WA

family law attorney spokane
spokane family law attorney
At Hodgson Law Office, we understand that every family law case is unique. With nearly two decades of experience, our Spokane divorce attorneys have successfully guided clients through complex child custody issues, asset division, and more.
We offer practical tools like our Washington Child Support Calculator to help you prepare for your case. Whether you're in Spokane County or the surrounding areas, we're ready to provide the personalized legal services you need to navigate your family law matter effectively.
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Divorce Matters We Handle

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Contact Our Spokane Divorce Attorneys for a Free Consultation

Divorces can be painful and complicated, even when you're going through an uncontested divorce. Contact our divorce lawyers to schedule a free consultation and get sound legal advice you can count on.
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divorce attorney spokane
spokane divorce attorney

What Are the Grounds for Seeking a Divorce in Washington

Washington is a no-fault divorce state. That means neither spouse has to prove that the other did something wrong. To file, you simply need to state that the marriage is irretrievably broken, which is a legal way of saying the relationship cannot be repaired.
Fault-based behavior like adultery or abuse does not factor into the court's decisions about property division, spousal maintenance, or parenting time. What matters is the current financial situation of each spouse, the length of the marriage, and the needs of any children involved.
To be eligible for a divorce, one or both spouses must demonstrate that:
  • The marriage is irretrievably broken
  • A petition has been made by the spouse desiring the divorce
  • The spouses have already gone through a 90-day waiting period
  • At least one spouse is a resident of Washington or stationed there as a member of the armed forces
That 90-day window doesn't mean a divorce will only take three months. Most divorces take longer once you factor in negotiations, discovery, and court scheduling. But it does establish the earliest possible date a Washington divorce can be completed.

How the Divorce Process Works in Spokane

Divorce in Washington follows a defined legal process. Knowing what to expect at each stage makes it easier to stay organized and avoid mistakes that slow things down.

1. Filing a Petition

2. Serving the Other Spouse

3. The 90-Day Waiting Period

4. Negotiating Terms

5. Court Hearing and Final Decree

One spouse (the petitioner) files a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the Spokane County Superior Court. The petition identifies the parties, addresses any children, and outlines what the petitioner is asking the court to decide.

Divorce Filing Requirements in Washington State

To file for divorce in Washington State, the following criteria must be satisfied:
  • Legal residency: At least one spouse must be a legal resident of Washington or a member of the armed forces stationed in the state; either spouse can file as long as one meets this residency requirement.
  • Claim of irretrievable breakdown: The filing spouse must believe that the marriage is strained beyond repair, indicating that there's no hope of reconciliation.
  • Service of summons: The other spouse must be served with the summons and divorce papers notifying them of the legal proceedings.
It's important to adhere to these requirements, seek dependable legal advice, and explore the resources provided by the Washington Courts when pursuing a divorce in the state.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Spokane Divorce Attorneys

Contact Hodgson Law Office today to arrange a free consultation with a Spokane family law attorney and get help navigating your divorce.
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Is It Worth Getting a Divorce Lawyer in Spokane, WA?

Dissolution of marriage isn't something to be taken lightly. It involves making legally binding decisions that will affect your life over the long term — often permanently.
An experienced divorce lawyer can help ensure that your interests are represented during divorce proceedings and offer the guidance you need to make informed decisions.
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Why Choose Our Spokane Divorce Attorney

People hire us because they want to know what's actually happening in their case. They want honest answers, not just empty assurances. Here's what working with Hodgson Law Office looks like in practice:
  • Free Consultations
  • Online Consultations and Meetings
  • 20-Plus Years of Experience
  • A Passion for Helping Clients
  • Founding attorney Mark D. Hodgson has spent more than two decades in Washington family law. That depth of experience means he's seen the issues that arise in Spokane courtrooms and knows how local judges approach property disputes, custody conflicts, and spousal maintenance. The legal assistants supporting our team share that institutional knowledge and bring it to every case we handle.
Testimonials

Reviews from Our Clients

stars
I hired Mark Hodgson for a divorce in Spokane. He was open, friendly, and gave me great advice and counsel. Mark was honest with me about my case and worked hard to resolve all of my issues quickly. He responded to my phone calls and questions every time. He was WONDERFUL in my hearing and got me alimony, child support, and the parenting plan that my children needed. I had two other lawyers before Mark and he is far superior to my previous counsel. He fought hard for me and he knew the law. I would and will recommend him to everyone that i know.
Susan
stars
These situations are never easy. Deciding to get a lawyer then choosing one was a very hard decision. I spoke to a few people that have been thru divorce and Mark’s name came up more than once. I went and met with him, his business partners and Casey his assistant. They were all friendly, professional and most importantly for me nonjudgmental. He is very educated on divorce with children and keeps in mind what is best for the kids! He answered my questions and didn’t make me feel belittled as other lawyers did. Thank you Mark Hodgson and team you are all very appreciated!
Tricia
stars
Called Mark Wednesday the day before Thanksgiving. He got us in that Friday the day after Thanksgiving. We decided to hire him and he made the time to start the process of paperwork that Sunday. It was great he did this so my wife and I didn’t have to miss work and our case was a time sensitive issue. The few times I’ve had to emailed him he seem to get right back to us with answers.
John
our team

Meet Our Attorneys

Our firm's attorneys and legal assistants offer the experience and compassion you need to get through this trying time. Founding attorney and team leader Mark D. Hodgson, supported by skilled legal assistants, has faithfully represented clients in Washington State for more than 20 years. Together, they bring a unique appreciation of the sensitivity and individual nature of each client's circumstances.
Attorney

Mark D. Hodgson

I am committed to helping my clients through one of the most difficult times in their lives....
Mark D. Hodgson
our team
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Contact Hodgson Law Office to Get Your Divorce Case Review

The knowledgeable Spokane divorce attorneys at Hodgson Law Office are ready to discuss your case and help you explore your options for moving forward. Contact us today to arrange your no-cost consultation and get a trustworthy ally you can lean on.

* Communication through our website does not establish an attorney-client relationship between you and Hodgson Law Offices
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FAQ

  • Can my attorney represent both me and my spouse?

    No. Washington ethics rules prohibit the same attorney from representing both parties in a divorce, even in an entirely amicable split. Each spouse needs separate legal representation.

  • How much is a divorce in Spokane?

    The total cost depends on how many issues need to be resolved and whether court appearances are involved. The average amount paid jointly by couples is around $10,000, but it can be much more or less.

  • What is the average cost for a lawyer in a divorce case?

    Spokane divorce attorneys may charge varying rates depending on their experience and the situation's complexity. Generally speaking, divorce lawyers might charge anywhere from $250 to $600 per hour for their services.

  • How long does a divorce take in Spokane, WA?

    A divorce in Washington state will take at least 90 days, which is the minimum required waiting period before a marriage can be dissolved. That said, many divorces take longer due to the procedures involved in property division, custody arrangements, and other post-marital concerns.

  • What’s the difference between divorce and legal separation?

    Divorce and legal separation differ in that a divorce officially dissolves the marriage and ends any legal relationship that once existed between the two spouses. With a legal separation, the marriage is still intact, even though a division of assets and other divorce-like proceedings may occur.

  • How are assets divided in a divorce?

    In Washington State, assets are divided under the principle of community property, which generally means that property and assets acquired during the marriage are split evenly between spouses.

    That said, the court may consider factors like individual financial contributions, the length of the marriage, and the needs of each spouse when determining fair and equitable distribution.