Legal Question in Family Law in Washington

Re: Tax return money

If you are interested in who is entitled to the tax refund, as a community property state Washington law says that all assets and liabilities belong to the marital community. Your spouse would have an interest in that asset. How much should she receive would depend on how all the assets and liabilities are distributed. No one item stands alone.

Re: Tax return money

Mr. Steuart gave you a very good answer. I would add that if you helped yourself to the tax return in the midst of a dissolution, you can reasonably anticipate the judge disapproving of your decision.

Your earnings are half yours and half hers. The house, car, retirement fund, etc., are half yours and half hers.

Helping yourself to what is not all yours will buy you a lot of grief right now.

Hope this helps - Powell