Washington, D.C. Divorce Laws and Hiring an Experienced Divorce Lawyer
Filing for divorce in Washington, D.C. is never a simple task. Even couples that agree to mutually part ways may find themselves arguing down the line during proceedings over how to split property or how to determine child custody arrangements. But while there are many intricate details surrounding the process of divorce in the District, it is important for parties to know exactly what they need to do before they even think of filing. There are specific regulations when it comes to residency requirements and grounds for divorce that are acceptable in Washington, D.C. that every couple facing divorce should be aware of.
Residency Requirements Prior to Filing for Divorce in Washington, D.C.
In order to be allowed to file for a divorce in Washington, D.C., at least one party must be a resident of the District of Columbia for a minimum of six months before filing the petition.
Legal Grounds for Divorce in Washington, D.C.
A divorce in the District of Columbia may be granted if the parties seeking a dissolution of marriage have mutually lived separate and apart for six months, or have lived separate and apart without cohabitation for one year prior to filing the action. Additionally, couples who have pursued separate lives and who have not shared a bed or food can be deemed to live separately and apart, even if they reside in the same household. Unlike other states, the District does not require parties to list specific details regarding adultery, abuse, habitual drunkenness, or other underlying causes that led to the divorce filing.
Seeking Legal Help with an Experienced Washington, D.C. Divorce Lawyer
Anyone seeking to file for divorce in the District has the right to solicit the help of a Washington, D.C. divorce attorney in order to ensure that proceedings run quickly and smoothly and to protect their rights against any fraud or violations in the settlement. However, finding the ideal attorney to represent your case isn’t so easy. There are many divorce lawyers in the District of Columbia to choose from, so how will you know which one has the most experience or fits your needs best? That’s where we come in.
