Thurston County, Washington

The content on the Thurston County website is currently provided in English. We are providing the “Translation” for approximately 10 languages. The goal of the translation is to provide visitors with limited English proficiency to access information on the website in other languages. The translations do not translate all types of documents, and it may not give you an exact translation all the time. The translations are made through an automated process, which may not result in accurate or precise translations, particularly of technical and legal terminology.
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Thurston County Washington

Superior Court

Family Law Orientation

In an effort to provide less adversarial choices for parties with children initiating actions for Dissolution of Marriage, the Court requires parties to attend a one-hour Orientation program.

New marriage dissolution actions involving minor children are subject to the following procedure:

  • At the time of filing, the Petitioner shall schedule an Orientation program. Both the Petitioner and Respondent shall be required to attend Orientation, but the parties need not be scheduled for the same date.

  • Notice of the Orientation program shall be served upon Respondent with the Summons and Petition for Dissolution.

  • Motions for temporary orders, except as required for emergency relief, will not be heard until after the parties have attended the Orientation.

A party is not required to attend orientation if they are represented by an attorney or if they live outside the State of Washington. Other exceptions may be found in the court rule.  If a party is seeking to be excused the following forms below must be completed.  This motion can be presented ex parte or taken to court administration.

Motion for Order to Excuse Party at Orientation

Order to Excuse Party at Orientation

Local Court Rule: LSPR 94.11

About Orientation

Orientation is held virtually by Zoom from 12:00-1:00 p.m. 

To join Orientation click here.

Zoom Meeting ID: 837 2088 7594

To see a list of dates Orientation is available click here. 

  • Information on court processes.
  • Information on the court mandated parenting class which focuses on what children experience as their parents separate.
  • Information on mediation.