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Marriage

Marriage—also known as matrimony or wedlock—is the legal and cultural process by which two people join their separate lives as one. The contractual rights and obligations of the parties to a marriage are generally defined by the state, as provided in the state’s statutes (often in the family code), unless otherwise agreed by the parties in a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Marriage is intended to last until death, but is often terminated sooner by separation or divorce.

In Washington State, marriage is recognized as a legal union between two individuals, which merges their lives legally, economically, and emotionally. The rights and responsibilities of the married parties are primarily governed by state law, as outlined in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), particularly in Title 26, which pertains to domestic relations. This includes provisions on the legal age for marriage, consent, and the process for obtaining a marriage license. Couples in Washington may also enter into prenuptial or postnuptial agreements to alter or clarify the legal obligations and property rights within their marriage. While marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, Washington law also provides mechanisms for legal separation and divorce, allowing marriages to be dissolved under certain conditions. The state operates under a 'no-fault' divorce system, meaning that a divorce can be granted without the need to prove wrongdoing by either party.

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Marriage

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Washington State Code

Marriage

Washington State Code

Articles