Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Is it impossible for me to get a divorce?

I separated from my husband 3 1/2 years ago. I heard he moved back to his country in Mexico. I am not sure where he is or how to contact him. I tried everything I could to get the divorce without a lawyer, but it is impossible. We have no property to divide, we both want the marriage dissolved and he has no emotional ties to our child. How can I get a divorce without knowing where to send paperwork? The clerk of courts said I could publish, but I don't know where to publish and cannot afford to publish all over Mexico and the US wherever he may be. HELP.


Asked on 11/26/02, 2:57 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lori Wheat Lori L. Wheat, Attorney at Law

Re: Is it impossible for me to get a divorce?

Although you are not sure where your husband is currently residing, you can get a divorce.

Make a reasonable inquiry into your husband's whereabouts (for example, contact any mutual friends or his family members to try to locate him).

If your search is unsuccessful, then you can use a summons by publication. After the filing of the petition for dissolution, the summons must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where the action is brought once a week for six consecutive weeks.

If you would like assistance with this matter, feel free to contact me. I offer affordable divorce and family law services.

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Answered on 11/26/02, 3:59 pm


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