How Do You Write A Declaration In Divorce In Washington?
• Tell the Truth: A declaration is a written statement made under penalty of perjury. Perjury is a Class B Felony in Washington State, and is but one serious potential repercussion to making a false statement to a court of law. Civil Rule 11 also mandates both truthfulness in statements, and a reasonable inquiry by a declarant to ensure that statements made are in fact true. Perhaps most commonly, it is simply a matter of credibility. A single dishonest statement, once discovered, will shatter your credibility with the opposing party and attorney, and the tribunal. Tell the truth, and skip the grief. • Know Your Audience: As with any writing or speaking, it is important to remember who you are talking to. In the area of family law, declarations most often end up in the hands of Court Commissioners. These court-appointed judicial officers manage extremely busy caseloads, often hearing hundreds of cases a day. They’ve “seen it all” in a general sense, but at the same time seldom do they
