What is a Domestic Relations Order?

A Domestic Relations Order (DRO) is a type of court order used in Family Law cases in Washington. It is usually issued in cases related to the division of property in a divorce or legal separation. It lays out specific details regarding how assets, such as real estate and other investments, should be divided between the parties. It also stipulates how spousal maintenance (often referred to as alimony) and child support, if applicable, should be paid. The court will review any agreement concerning property division, spousal support and child support that the divorcing parties have reached and make sure it is fair and equitable. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the court will make the decisions for them in a DRO. A DRO will list the details of the property division and specify which party is responsible for the payment of spousal maintenance and child support. It is important to note that a DRO is not a divorce decree. A divorce decree is a separate document issued after a DRO has been issued and is used to legally dissolve a marriage. A DRO is legally binding and enforceable. If either party fails to abide by the terms of the DRO, the other party can file an enforcement action with the court to compel the other party to adhere to the DRO. It is thus important to ensure that any DRO issued is fair and equitable to both parties.

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What is a Domestic Relations Order?

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