In Washington State, the division of assets and liabilities accumulated during a marriage when that marriage ends is a critical component of the dissolution process. This process, often involving negotiation and sometimes litigation, aims to achieve a just and equitable distribution of what the couple owns and owes.
Fairly distributing marital property is intended to provide both parties with a fresh start and to account for each spouse’s contributions to the marriage. This involves assessing the value of assets like real estate, retirement accounts, personal property, and businesses, as well as debts such as mortgages, credit card balances, and loans. Historically, states have approached this differently, but the focus remains on achieving an outcome that is fair under the specific circumstances of the dissolving marriage.
