Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Property Distribution - I was never served

I just found out my wife of 15 years filed for divorce 4 months ago. The judge awarded her our house with about 200K equity. She's been living there since separation. I was never served any paperwork; however we've talked regularly over the phone during our separtion of 2 years. I've been under the impression we would reconcile. I've regular money depos into her separate account to help with the mortgage during our separation. Do I have any recourse even though a decree has been awarded in her favor. She attempted to serve me at my old place of employment. I've been a lifetime resident of Wa State and have deep family roots here that she knows of. Aren't her actions malicious? What is my next step? Do I have one know that the divorce has been finalized?


Asked on 3/28/07, 2:32 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Powell ELizabeth Powell PS Inc

Re: Property Distribution - I was never served

Well, THAT's an interesting problem. First thing is to move to vacate the decree based on lack of personal service. Then you can argue to your satisfaction about how the property should be distributed.

That's your recourse - a motion to vacate. It's happened before, I've seen caselaw on it, so don't despair, but do lawyer up and get the matter resolved.

Hope this helps. Powell

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Answered on 3/28/07, 5:44 pm


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