If you are contemplating divorce in Bellingham or Whatcom County, the mandatory waiting period for a dissolution of marriage is three months—or ninety days. This means that the summons and petition for dissolution must be filed with the court and served upon the other spouse for more than 90 days before the judge signs the final decree. Of course, this is a minimum time period, intended to allow folks some time for reconciliation or "cooling off" before permanently ending a marriage. If the parties can't reach an agreement or the matter is contested in any way, the process could take much longer.

During the waiting period, you may ask the court to enter temporary orders including a temporary parenting plan for minor children, provide protection or support money, or otherwise direct the conduct of the parties.