The Simple Divorce (Simple Dissolution) program helps people complete agreed or uncontested divorce or legal separation cases without children and without substantial property or debt. Eligible participants are able to finalize their case without appearing in court.

ELIGIBILITY

You may be eligible to apply if all the following are true:

• You have filed a Petition for Divorce or Legal Separation in King County.
• Neither party is represented by an attorney.
• All issues are agreed, or an Order of Default has been entered.
• There are no minor or dependent children of the marriage.
• There is no substantial property or debt to divide.

Eligibility is confirmed only after staff review your application.

WHAT THE PROGRAM PROVIDES

If you qualify, program staff will:

• Meet with both parties, or with the Petitioner if there is a default or a joinder that does not require notice.
• Assist with preparing final documents.
• Send documents for review and signatures.
• Present final documents to the court on behalf of the parties without additional court hearings.
• Send copies of the signed final orders by email or mail.

PROGRAM LIMITATIONS

Program staff:

• Do not represent either party and cannot provide legal advice.
• Cannot keep communications confidential.
• Prepare documents based solely on the information you provide.
• Are not responsible for accuracy or the outcome of your case.
• Cannot assist you if either party is represented by an attorney.
• May assist both parties as neutral court staff.

You are responsible for reviewing all documents before signing and may seek legal advice at any time.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Complete the Simple Divorce Application Packet. Download link coming soon. For now, request an Application Packet by email: SimpleDivorce@kingcounty.gov
2. Submit your completed application by email or mail.

Email: SimpleDivorce@kingcounty.gov

Mailing addresses:

• King County Superior Court CCFJC, Attn: ERCM, 1211 E. Alder Street, Seattle, WA 98122
• King County Superior Court KCCH, Attn: ERCM, 516 Third Ave, Room W 280, Seattle, WA 98104

You will be contacted within 14 days with an eligibility decision and next steps.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOU APPLY

• Staff review your application.
• If eligible, you will receive an email telling you how to book an appointment to discuss your case.
• AT your appointment, staff assist with preparing final orders.
• You review and sign documents.
• Staff submit documents to the judge when all requirements are met.
• You receive signed orders once the case is finalized.

The date of finalization depends on judicial availability. You will receive the signed orders. No separate finalization notice is sent.

IF YOU ARE NOT ELIGIBLE

If you and the other party agree but do not qualify for the Simple Divorce Program:

• You may contact the Family Law Facilitators. Information is available at the King County Family Law Facilitator Office.
• You may download instructions from the Family Law How To Resources.

If you and the other party are not in agreement, review and follow your case schedule, including your Alternative Dispute Resolution deadline.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is there a fee?
There is no fee as of June 2026. This may change.

What if the other party has not responded?
You may be eligible only if an Order of Default has already been entered.

Can I apply before filing the Petition?
No. Your case must be filed first.

Do I need to attend the Family Law Orientation?
Orientation is not required for program eligibility but may be required under local rules.

Do I need to attend my Status Conference?
Yes, unless the judge has finalized the case or cancelled the hearing.