You and your spouse have decided your marriage is over and you have separated. Still, now that you are living apart, what happens to your shared property? Where will your kids live?
You know that these issues will be resolved during the divorce process, and once the divorce decree is signed, everything will be in order. But what will you do in the meantime?
This is where temporary orders come into play. A temporary order can resolve many of these interim issues and provide you with the security you need as you move through the divorce process.
What is a temporary order?
Temporary orders in Washington are set by the court and are legally enforceable. After you or your spouse file for divorce, the court will automatically issue a motion for a temporary order that addresses the urgent issues you are facing while your divorce is pending.
For example, if you have children, the temporary order will state that you cannot change the child’s residence unless you and your spouse agree to do so in writing. The temporary order will also mandate that neither you nor your spouse can speak negatively about one another in front of your child. Child support can also be requested.
A temporary order can also protect your marital property. It will not allow you or your spouse to sell, hide or in any other way dispose of your marital property except for life necessities or for other reasons agreed upon in writing. A temporary order will make you and your spouse immediately responsible for any debts you incur on your own once separated, unless you agree otherwise in writing.
These are only some examples of what a temporary order can do. A temporary order ends when your divorce is finalized.
What are the benefits of a temporary order?
A temporary order can help you meet your needs after you separate from your spouse. It can help make sure your children retain a relationship with both of you while the divorce is pending. A temporary order can protect your marital property and separate debts as you work through the property division process.
A temporary order can also help set the stage for a possible divorce settlement because you and your spouse know your interests have been protected from the get-go. And if you can reach a settlement, it can save you time, money and the stress of a prolonged divorce.