Where Do I File for Divorce in Everett, Washington?

If you live in or around Everett, you file your divorce (called a “dissolution”) in Snohomish County Superior Court through the Superior Court Clerk’s Office, located at 3000 Rockefeller Ave, M/S 605, Everett, WA 98201. Office hours are generally Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (closed 12:00–12:45 p.m.). You can file in person or electronically.

Residency/Venue rule: Washington is a “no-fault” divorce state. Either spouse must reside in Washington (or be stationed here), and venue is proper in the county where at least one spouse resides. The statutory 90-day waiting period begins from when you file (with joinder) or from service.

How To File For Divorce In Everett, WA

Before you file your divorce paperwork in Snohomish County, it helps to understand the different filing methods available to you. Whether you prefer the convenience of online filing, the reassurance of submitting documents in person, or the extra guidance offered through the Courthouse Facilitator, Snohomish County provides several options to fit your comfort level. Below is a quick breakdown of each filing method to help you choose the one that best aligns with your needs.

Filing Fees For Divorce In Everett

Understanding the costs associated with filing for divorce in Snohomish County can help you budget and avoid surprises. While the standard filing fee is straightforward, additional expenses, such as certified copies or service fees, can add up. If you’re facing financial hardship, you may qualify for a fee waiver to reduce upfront costs. The overview below breaks down what you can expect to pay and what to do if affordability is a concern.

Key Forms & Documents

When filing in Snohomish County, you’ll typically need:

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage

• Summons

• Confidential Information Sheet

• Certificate of Service (once papers are served)

• If minor children are involved: Parenting Plan, Child Support Worksheets, Parenting Seminar Certificate

• If you and your spouse agree: a Marital Settlement Agreement or Stipulated Final Orders

• If contested: Discovery, temporary order motions, etc.

Parenting seminar reminder: If you have children under age 18, WA law and Snohomish County Local Rule require completion of an approved parenting seminar (for example, “Children in Between” or “Successful Co-Parenting”) before the final parenting plan is entered.

What Happens After You File?

Once your divorce case has been filed, several important steps must occur before the court can issue a final order. From properly serving your spouse to completing the 90-day waiting period, these procedural requirements ensure both parties have time to respond, disclose financial details, and, if possible, reach an agreement outside of court.

1. Service – Your spouse must be served (or must sign a joinder) before the case can progress.

2. Waiting period – Washington imposes a mandatory waiting period (90 days) from service or joinder until a final order can be entered.

3. Temporary orders – If needed, you may request temporary orders for child custody, support, or financial matters while the case is pending.

4. Exchange disclosures – Both parties must exchange required financial disclosures (income, assets, liabilities), if applicable.

5. Settlement or trial – Many cases settle via negotiation or mediation. If not, you may proceed to trial.

6. Final order – Once all forms are complete, service is done, disclosures exchanged (or waived), waiting period passed, and the judge signs the final order, the case is concluded.

By understanding each stage of the process, you can better anticipate what comes next and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether your case moves smoothly through settlement or requires a court hearing, following these steps carefully will help bring your divorce to a successful resolution.

Local Logistics & Everett-specific tips

If you’re planning to visit the Snohomish County Courthouse in Everett, a few practical details can make your experience smoother. From parking and security to document requests and local filing rules, knowing what to expect ahead of time can save you time and stress on the day of your visit.

• Parking – The courthouse parking garage is located on Oakes Avenue (between Wall and Pacific). Arrive early.

• Security – Allow extra time for security screening; large items, backpacks may need to be checked.

• Certified copies – After the judgment is signed, you can request certified copies from the Clerk (useful for name changes, property re­titling).

• Protection orders – If you are concerned about domestic violence or safety, ask about filing a protection order in parallel.

• E-filing limits – Though e-filing is available, certain forms may still require paper filing or in-court handling. Confirm the current rules with the Clerk’s Office.

Taking these small steps, arriving early, organizing your documents, and confirming local procedures, helps your filing process go off without a hitch. A little preparation ensures you can focus on your case rather than courthouse logistics.

Checklist: What To Do Today

Getting started with your divorce filing can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into smaller steps makes it far more manageable. Use the checklist below as a practical guide to stay organized and ensure nothing important slips through the cracks.

By understanding each stage of the process, you can better anticipate what comes next and avoid unnecessary delays. Whether your case moves smoothly through settlement or requires a court hearing, following these steps carefully will help bring your divorce to a successful resolution.

Timeline: Minimum Waiting Period

California has a mandatory minimum six-month waiting period before a divorce can be finalized. The six-month clock begins when your spouse is served or files a response, whichever happens first. Many cases take longer depending on settlement, disclosures, and the court’s calendar.

Helpful Tips

• If you don’t yet meet residency timing, consider filing a legal separation now and amending to divorce later.

• If you and your spouse meet the criteria for a summary dissolution, the process can be simpler—but it still has the six-month minimum.

Convenient San Jose Office

Whether you’re still exploring your options or you’re ready to file, our San Jose team is here to listen and guide you step by step. We’ll help you get the paperwork right, understand timelines, and build a plan that fits your family’s needs.