Washington State has community property laws in place to help couples more easily and fairly divide their property during the divorce process. Community property is basically defined as any property that is shared between each spouse. This usually includes:

  • All money earned by both spouses after the marriage.
  • All property was bought by the married couple with community funds.
  • All gifts are given to both spouses.
  • Property or funds brought into the marriage are then mixed with community funds.

Other types of funds and property are considered separate property:

  • Gifts that are specifically meant for either spouse.
  • Inheritance that is intended only for one spouse or partner.
  • Property acquired before the marriage that is not clearly intended by both spouses to be part of community property.
  • Funds acquired before the marriage that are kept in an unshared bank account and never intended to be community property.

It can be difficult to understand Washington State community property laws. To learn more about who is entitled to the funds and property in your own divorce proceedings, speak with a Bellevue divorce attorney today for more information.

Learn More About Washington State Community Property Laws +

Molly B. Kenny
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Divorce and Child Custody Attorney Serving Bellevue and Seattle Washington