Getting a Divorce in Washington DC? Read This First!

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Navigating through a divorce can be challenging. This page aims to make it a bit easier by offering key information about divorce in Washington DC. For those seeking more in-depth details, we have additional resources and links available.

Divorce Laws in Washington DC

In Washington DC, divorces are primarily no-fault, meaning that you don’t have to prove wrongdoing by your spouse. The main ground for divorce is living separately for six months if the separation is mutual and voluntary, or for one year if it’s not.

Unlike some states, DC doesn’t require you to be a resident for a specific period before filing for divorce. However, at least one spouse must be a DC resident when the divorce is filed.

There’s also a 30-day waiting period after filing, which is relatively short compared to some other places.

Process of Filing for Divorce

To start a divorce in DC, you’ll file a complaint with the Family Court of the DC Superior Court. This involves completing several forms.

After filing, you must serve the divorce papers to your spouse. This process is quite straightforward but make sure all forms are correctly filled to avoid delays.

Get a detailed overview of the process in the article, How to File for Divorce in Washington DC

Child Custody and Support

When it comes to child custody and support in DC, the child’s best interest is the top priority. The court considers factors like the child’s relationship with each parent, their needs, and the parents’ ability to provide care.

Support calculations are based on each parent’s income and the child’s needs. DC has its own guidelines for these calculations, which can be different from other areas.

Alimony/Spousal Support

In Washington DC, alimony decisions are based on factors like the length of the marriage, each spouse’s financial needs and capabilities, and contributions to the marriage. The goal is to ensure that neither spouse faces financial hardship after the divorce.

Property Division

DC follows an “equitable distribution” approach for dividing marital property. This means the division is based on what’s fair, not necessarily equal. Factors like each spouse’s contribution to the marriage and their economic circumstances are considered.

Divorce in Washington DC Resources

For more detailed information on divorce in Washington DC, explore the links to family law courts, official government resources, and legal aid organizations provided here.

How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Washington DC

DC Divorce Forms

General Domestic Relations Forms:

Complaint for Divorce: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/divorce-matters
Answer and Counterclaim for Divorce: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/divorce-matters
Financial Affidavit: https://dcdivorcehub.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/DC-Financial-Statement-FD-731-Fillable-PDF.pdf
Affidavit of Corroborating Witness: https://www.dccourts.gov/sites/default/files/2019-06/Affidavit%20of%20Service%20by%20Individual.pdf
Notice of Social Security Number: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/forms
Final Judgment of Divorce (Default or Uncontested): http://www.dccourts.gov/services/divorce-matters
Final Judgment of Divorce (Contested): http://www.dccourts.gov/services/divorce-matters
Notice of Lis Pendens: https://code.dccouncil.gov/us/dc/council/code/sections/42-1207

Child Custody and Visitation:

Parenting Plan: http://www.dccourts.gov/superior-court/family-court-operations
Motion for Temporary Custody and/or Visitation: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/forms
Order for Temporary Custody and/or Visitation: https://www.dccourts.gov/sites/default/files/2017-10/Motion%20for%20Temporary%20Custody%20and-or%20Access%20to%20Children.pdf

Child Support:

Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: https://csgc.oag.dc.gov/application/main/intro.aspx
Income and Expense Declaration: https://csgc.oag.dc.gov/application/main/intro.aspx
Motion for Child Support: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/forms
Order for Child Support: https://cson.oag.dc.gov/LogReg.aspx

Additional Forms:

Request for Interpreter: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/information-and-resources/interpreting-services
Motion for Continuance: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/forms
Motion for Attorney Fees: https://ota.dc.gov/book/court-appeals-abstracts-decisions/attorney-fees
Motion for Temporary Alimony: http://www.dccourts.gov/services/forms
Notice of Hearing: http://www.dccourts.gov/hearing-information

Resources:

D.C. Courts – Self-Help Center – Family Law: http://www.dccourts.gov/superior-court/family-court-operations/forms
D.C. Bar – Family Law Section: https://www.dcbar.org/for-the-public/legal-resources/family

Disclaimer: This information is intended for general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a legal professional for advice specific to your situation.