Bill > SB5536

This bill modifies existing laws regarding property division during divorce or domestic partnership dissolution by clarifying and expanding guidelines for courts when distributing real property and liabilities. The bill adds two key provisions to the existing legal framework: first, it ensures that court orders related to real property disposition can be enforced by either party, and requires both secured and unsecured creditors to adhere to the court's specified conditions. Second, the bill instructs courts to consider additional factors when dividing property, specifically requiring judges to examine the costs associated with selling real property (such as taxes, broker fees, and repair expenses) and to evaluate the potential for homelessness when determining the disposition of the family home. The legislation aims to create a more comprehensive and equitable approach to property division by mandating that courts look beyond simple asset valuation and consider the broader economic and housing impacts on both parties, with particular attention to the welfare of children. These changes are designed to provide judges with more nuanced guidance in making property division decisions that are truly "just and equitable" in divorce or domestic partnership dissolution proceedings.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5536&Year=2025&Initiative=false