Washington Dissolution Without Children (2026)

A Washington dissolution with no minor children and a co-petition is one of the most efficient DIY divorce paths available in any state. No residency minimum, no fault required, simple community property rules, and a 90-day waiting period that runs while you complete your paperwork.

The Fastest Path: Joint Petition (Co-Petition)

If you and your spouse agree on everything:

1. Both sign the Joint Petition for Dissolution (DR 01.0295)
2. File it together at Superior Court
3. The 90-day clock starts on the filing date
4. Complete your Separation Contract during the 90 days
5. Submit the final Decree and Separation Contract after Day 90
6. Judge signs — Decree is entered

No service required. No response period. No hearing (typically). This is the fastest possible Washington dissolution path.

Step-by-Step: No-Children Washington Dissolution

Step 1 — Confirm Residency

You are currently a Washington resident. No minimum duration.

Step 2 — Download Forms

courts.wa.gov/forms → DR 01.0295 (Joint Petition) or DR 01.0300 (Individual Petition) + DR 04.0300 (Decree) + DR 04.0400 (Separation Contract).

Step 3 — Complete and File the Petition

Both spouses sign the Joint Petition and file at Superior Court. Pay $280–$314 filing fee.

Step 4 — Draft the Separation Contract

During the 90-day period, finalize your agreement on all community property and debts. Both spouses sign before a notary.

Step 5 — Submit Final Papers After 90 Days

File the Decree of Dissolution (incorporating the Separation Contract), the Vital Statistics Form, and any other required documents.

Step 6 — Decree Signed

Judge reviews and signs without a hearing in most agreed cases.

Timeline

Community Property Division Summary

Last reviewed: March 2026 | No residency minimum in Washington | Co-petition is fastest path | courts.wa.gov/forms

Last reviewed: March 2026 · Verify current fees and forms with your local court before filing.