How do I File for Separation Papers in King County, Washington?

The task of filing for separation can be emotionally draining. If you are seeking a separation in King County, Washington, there is a way file quickly and easily. With the right forms you can begin the process separating from your spouse immediately.

Things You'll Need

• Petition of legal separation
• Confidential information form
• Filing fee

Instructions

1. Download the Petition for Legal Separation and the Confidential Information Form from King County's official government website. These forms will begin the separation process.

2. Fill out the Petition for Legal Separation and the Confidential Information form in its entirety. On the petition for legal separation you will include your name, the name of your spouse, names of children if you have any and the date and place of marriage. Within that form you will also answer a few questions that explain your reason for separation. On the confidential information form you will include your contact information, your spouse's contact information, names of children, your employer and your spouse's employer. Sign the petition and the confidential information form. If your spouse agrees to the conditions of the petition, they should sign both forms. If they do not agree with the conditions the court will serve them a summons.

3. Copy each form before filing, so you have proof of each signature just in case documents are lost. Store the copies in a safe place.

4. Hand in the petition and the confidential information form to the King County Clerk's Office at the cashier window, in room E609. The cashier will give you a Vital Statistics Form, a Case Assignment Area Form and a Case Index Cover Sheet for you to complete. You can complete these forms at the office.

5. Pay the filing fee of $280.00 in the form of a personal check. You can add the filing fee with the petition and the confidential information form. When you hand in the filing fee you should get a receipt for proof of payment. You will be given an Order Setting Original Domestic Case Schedule and you must give a copy to your spouse. The order explains the due dates of what is expected of you during the filing. It is very important that each due date is met. This is will begin the filing for separation process.

References

• King County Judicial Administration: Legal Separation Guidelines
• Washington Courts: Court Forms: Legal Separation