# We Handle All Divorce Matters in Spokane County - Hodgson Law Office - / - Spokane Divorce Attorney ## We Handle All Divorce Matters in Spokane County Family Law Is All We Do. [Get a Consultation](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/contact-us) MDH Law Was My Steady Lighthouse Tim Sullivan I just finished a 3-year journey through a high-conflict divorce that was sheer hell. If that journey was a raging sea, then **MDH Law was my steady lighthouse**. Mark has built a firm where premier talent truly cares about the families they represent. [Read Other Reviews](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/testimonials) ## about us Compassionate and Effective Divorce Representation in Spokane, WA family law attorney spokane Ending a marriage is rarely simple. Even when both spouses agree on the basics, Washington divorce law often requires property division under community property rules, spousal maintenance, parenting plans for any children, and a mandatory 90-day waiting period before a court can finalize the case. At Hodgson Law Office, our Spokane divorce attorneys handle every part of that process so you can focus on what comes next. We explain Washington divorce law in plain language, lay out your real options, and represent you with the kind of steady, practical advocacy that moves your case forward. For child custody, support, parenting plans, paternity, and other [Spokane family law matters](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/family-law) that extend beyond divorce, see our family law hub. [more about us](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/our-team) ## Untying the Knot: Understanding Divorce with Hodgson Law uP1JHdJQz_Q Join Hodgson Law as we demystify divorce, exploring its legal, emotional, and practical dimensions for individuals and families. ## practice areas Different Ways to Resolve Your Divorce Not every Spokane divorce ends in a courtroom. Washington recognizes several legal paths to finalize a dissolution, and the right one depends on how many of the issues have already been agreed upon, how complex the assets are, and how willing both spouses are to negotiate. Our Spokane divorce attorneys can help you pick the path that protects your interests and minimizes cost and conflict. When spouses cannot agree on the core terms, the case is decided in Spokane County Superior Court. A judge hears motions, takes testimony, and issues final orders on property, support, and parenting. Litigation is often necessary in a [contested divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/contested) or [high-conflict divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/high-conflict), especially when one spouse refuses to cooperate, when there are concerns about hidden assets, or when [property division](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/property-divison) involves significant or complex assets that need careful court oversight. - Litigation A neutral mediator helps both spouses negotiate the terms of the divorce in a confidential setting. Spokane family law mediation often resolves issues faster and at lower cost than litigation, and it gives spouses more control over the outcome. Mediation is especially effective when children are involved, because the resulting agreements on [child custody](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/family-law/child-custody), [parenting plans](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/family-law/parenting-plan), and [child support](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/family-law/child-support) tend to hold up better when both parents helped shape them. Parents who want a quick, rough estimate of their obligations before the first session can run their numbers through the [Washington child support calculator](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/child-support-calculator). Each spouse should still be represented by a divorce attorney to review every agreement before it becomes a court order. - Mediation In a collaborative divorce, both spouses and their attorneys sign an agreement to resolve every issue outside of court. If the process breaks down and litigation becomes necessary, the collaborative attorneys are disqualified, and new counsel must take over. The structure motivates everyone to negotiate in good faith. Collaborative works well for an [uncontested divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/uncontested) where the spouses already agree on the main points, and it is also a thoughtful path for [same-sex divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/family-law/same-sex) and other family law matters, where preserving cooperation matters for shared parenting after the case closes. - Collaborative Divorce Many Spokane divorces are resolved through direct negotiation between the two attorneys, without formal mediation and without a trial. This works when the issues are clear, the disclosures are honest, and both spouses want to finalize the case efficiently. Most [spousal support](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/spousal-support) and [military divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce/military) cases settle this way. We document the agreement, file the paperwork with the Spokane County Superior Court, and shepherd the final decree to entry. - Negotiated Settlement ## 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. ### 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. The respondent must be formally served with the divorce papers. This step starts the legal clock and gives the other spouse the opportunity to respond. Proper service is required so the parties are notified in a timely manner, as errors can delay the proceedings. Washington imposes a [mandatory 90-day waiting period](https://www.courts.wa.gov/newsinfo/content/pdf/flhbmarriageedition.pdf) from the date of filing before a divorce can be finalized. This period is often used to negotiate terms, exchange financial disclosures, and draft a settlement agreement. Spouses may agree on some or all issues, such as property, debts, parenting plans, and support. Reaching a written agreement before going to court saves time and gives both parties more control over the outcome. Our Spokane divorce attorneys help clients negotiate settlements that are fair and legally sound. In an uncontested case, the judge reviews the settlement agreement and issues a final decree of dissolution. In a contested case, the judge holds hearings (and sometimes even a full trial ) before issuing a final order and decree. Either way, the divorce is not complete until the court signs off. ## 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 Consultation with Our Spokane Divorce Attorneys Contact Hodgson Law Office today to schedule a 30-minute consultation for $300 with a Spokane family law attorney and get help navigating your divorce. [Get a Consultation](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/contact-us) ## What Are the Grounds for Seeking a Divorce in Washington Washington is a [no-fault divorce](https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/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](https://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/documents/FL%20Divorce%20201%20Petition%20for%20Divorce_2023%2001.pdf) 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. ## 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. ## Schedule a Consultation with a Spokane Divorce Lawyer Today! [Get a Consultation](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/contact-us) Call Hodgson Law Office today to speak with a knowledgeable attorney. You deserve to know what choices you have during your divorce proceedings. ## Divorce Law About Divorce Law in Washington Washington is a no-fault divorce state under [RCW 26.09](https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=26.09). Either spouse can file for dissolution by stating that the marriage is irretrievably broken; the court does not require proof of misconduct. A 90-day waiting period from the date of service must pass before a divorce can be finalized. Property acquired during the marriage is treated as community property under [RCW 26.09.080](https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=26.09.080) and is divided fairly, though not necessarily fifty-fifty. Separate property (assets owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance) generally stays with the original owner, though tracing is often required for retirement accounts, business interests, and real estate. Spousal maintenance is decided under [RCW 26.09.090](https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=26.09.090). Courts weigh the length of the marriage, each spouse's earning capacity, the standard of living during the marriage, and the financial resources each spouse will have after the divorce. Washington has no maintenance formula, which is why outcomes vary from case to case. ## Schedule a Consultation with Our Spokane Divorce Attorneys Family law cases turn on specifics — your children, your living arrangement, the orders already in place. We listen first, then explain how Washington law actually applies to your situation. Call [(509) 327-1415](tel:+15093271415) or send a quick note through the consultation form. Consultations are $300 for 30 minutes. [Get a Consultation](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/contact-us) lawyer family and divorce family law spokane spokane family law ## Comprehensive List of Divorce Matters We Handle in WA Below is the full coverage of divorce and divorce-adjacent matters our Spokane firm represents. Click any item to read the details, or call [(509) 327-1415](tel:+15093271415) for direct help. - Contested Divorce - Uncontested Divorce - High-Conflict Divorce - Spousal Support - Property Division - Military Divorce - High Net Worth Divorce - Collaborative Divorce - Annulment - Legal Separation - Negotiated Settlement Divorce - Same-Sex Divorce - Spokane Family Law Mediation - Child Custody and Parenting Plans - Child Support - Paternity - All Family Law Matters We Handle ## why us 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: - Initial 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 Hear from Spokane Families We've Helped [view all Reviews](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/testimonials) ## our team Meet Our Attorneys The Hodgson Law Office team of attorneys and legal assistants delivers results for families throughout Eastern Washington. Our collaborative approach means we understand each client's unique circumstances and advocate tirelessly for their best interests in all family law matters. [our team](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/our-team) ## Areas We Serve **Visit Our Office** Hodgson Law Office is based at 1321 W. Broadway in downtown Spokane. Because every divorce and family law matter for Spokane-area residents is heard in Spokane County Superior Court, we represent clients from anywhere in Spokane County, including Spokane Valley, Liberty Lake, Cheney, Airway Heights, Mead, Deer Park, Medical Lake, Otis Orchards, and Newman Lake. If your case will be filed in Spokane County, we can represent you regardless of which community within the county you call home. - Hodgson Law Office - 1321 W. Broadway, Spokane, WA 99201 - Phone: - (509) 327-1415 - tel:+15093271415 - Office Hours: - Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM ## 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 schedule a 30-minute consultation for $300 and get a trustworthy ally you can lean on. Thank you! Your message has been submitted Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form. ## Divorce FAQ **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. - Can my attorney represent both me and my spouse? 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. - How much is a divorce in Spokane? 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. - What is the average cost for a lawyer in a divorce case? 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. - How long does a divorce take in Spokane, WA? [Divorce and legal separation](https://www.findlaw.com/family/divorce/legal-separation-vs-divorce.html) 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. - What’s the difference between divorce and legal separation? 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. - How are assets divided in a divorce? --- Hodgson Law Office — [https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce](https://hodgsonlawoffices.com/divorce)