Where to File for Divorce in Lincoln County, Washington State?
If you want to file for divorce in Lincoln County, Washington, you need to go to the Lincoln County Superior Court. That’s the court that handles all family law matters, including divorces. You can file your paperwork in person at the courthouse or by mail through the county clerk. Make sure you have all the required forms ready and follow the state residency rules.
Address: 450 Logan Street, 2nd Floor, Davenport, WA 99122
Phone: (509) 725-1401
Email: eclerk@co.lincoln.wa.us
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The Requirements for Divorce in Lincoln County
In Lincoln County, Washington, a divorce (legally called a dissolution of marriage) is granted on the grounds of irreconcilable differences – meaning the marriage is beyond repair and no fault needs to be proven. To get a divorce in Lincoln County, there’s a mandatory 90-day waiting period after the divorce papers are filed and served. If the couple has minor children, both parents are required to complete a parent education seminar before the divorce can be finalized.
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Filing for an Uncontested Divorce in Lincoln County
Filing for an uncontested divorce in Lincoln County, Washington, is a streamlined process – but only if both spouses are fully in agreement. This means you and your spouse must agree on all major terms, including the division of property and debts, spousal support (if any), and – if you have children – custody, visitation, and child support arrangements. If there is any disagreement, your case won’t qualify as uncontested and may require a more complex process in another county.
- Agree on Everything. You and your spouse must agree on all issues, like property, debts, and parenting if you have children. Both of you must cooperate and be ready to sign all paperwork.
- Fill Out and Sign the Divorce Papers. After agreeing, complete the required forms. Make sure both you and your spouse sign them. This may include a Joinder, which shows your spouse agrees to the divorce and does not need to be served.
- Mail the Papers to the Court. Lincoln County allows you to file by mail. Send your signed forms with the filing fee (check or money order; no personal checks). Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the court can return copies to you.
- Wait 90 Days. Washington law requires a 90-day waiting period. This usually starts from the filing date if you used a Joinder. During this time, the court cannot finalize your divorce.
- Send Final Documents After 90 Days. Once 90 days pass, mail your final signed papers to the court. Lincoln County usually does not require a hearing if everything is complete. The judge will review and sign the final orders.
- Get Your Divorce Decree. After the judge signs, the court will mail you copies of the final divorce order. Your divorce is official, and the process is complete.
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Required Divorce Forms in Lincoln County
If you and your spouse have no minor children together, these are the typical forms required:
These are the main forms used in a divorce in Washington and Lincoln County:
- Certificate of Dissolution (DOH 422-027): Filed with the Washington Department of Health to officially record that your marriage has ended.
- Confidential Information Form (FL All Family 001): Contains personal info like Social Security numbers. The court keeps it private.
- Petition for Divorce (FL Divorce 201): The first form filed to start the divorce. It says you want to end the marriage and lists any agreements.
- Findings and Conclusions About a Marriage (FL Divorce 231): The court’s written explanation of the facts and legal reasons for the divorce.
- Verification Form: A Lincoln County form signed under oath to confirm that everything in the petition is true. It must be notarized.
- Final Divorce Order (FL Divorce 241): The court’s official papers that finalize the divorce after all terms are approved and the waiting period ends.
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Lincoln County Divorce Filing Fees
In Lincoln County, Washington, the filing fee for a divorce is $314. There is also a $30 fee for ex-parte services. You must pay with cash, cashier’s check, money order, or credit/debit card. Personal checks are not accepted.
These fees are similar to most counties in Washington, which usually charge between $250 and $320. Some counties may also have extra fees for certain services, like hearings or document filings, just like Lincoln County’s ex-parte fee.
If you cannot afford the fees, you can ask the court to waive them. To do this, fill out the Motion and Declaration for Waiver of Civil Fees and Surcharges form. You must provide detailed financial information about both spouses. If your spouse does not give their financial info, the court may deny the request.
After completing the form, submit it to the Lincoln County Superior Court. The court will review your request and decide. If approved, you will not have to pay the fees. If denied, you may need to look for other options or get legal help.
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