Free WA Court Form Guidance — FVRO, Divorce & Family Law | CaseMateFree WA Court Form Guidance — FVRO, Divorce & Family Law | CaseMate

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Divorce Timeline

What to expect from separation to final orders

Estimated total time: Approximately 15-18 months from separation

Separation

Day 1

You and your spouse start living separately. This can be under the same roof if circumstances require.

Key tasks:
  • Document separation date
  • Consider interim arrangements

Waiting Period

12 months

You must be separated for at least 12 months and 1 day before you can apply for divorce.

Key tasks:
  • Gather documents
  • Consider parenting/property matters
  • Attempt mediation if needed

Application

1-2 weeks

Complete and file your divorce application (Form 3) through the eCourts Portal.

Key tasks:
  • Complete Form 3
  • Gather marriage certificate
  • Pay filing fee ($1,170 or $390)
  • File online

Service

1-4 weeks

Serve the divorce application on your spouse (unless filing jointly).

Key tasks:
  • Serve documents on spouse
  • File proof of service
  • Wait for response period

Court Hearing

2-4 months after filing

Attend the court hearing (may not be required if filing jointly with no children).

Key tasks:
  • Prepare for hearing
  • Attend court (if required)

Divorce Order

1 month after hearing

Your divorce becomes final one month and one day after the court grants it.

Key tasks:
  • Receive divorce order
  • Update documents
  • Finalise property matters

Timeframes are estimates only and can vary significantly based on court workload, complexity of your matter, and whether issues are contested.

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