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FL All Family 161Mandatory

Motion for Default

Washington · Washington State Courts · Effective June 1, 2026

This form is used to ask the court to declare another party in default and to approve final orders without that party having to participate. It asks the person filing to confirm details about service and the other party's lack of response.

Open the official PDFfrom Washington State Courts

Where this fits in a case

Motions

Stage: Motions

This form is used in family law cases when the person filing believes the other party has not responded to the case, and they are asking the court to move forward without that party's involvement.

Usually filed by the person starting the case.

Common questions

Who must file this form?
The person making this motion must fill out the form and ask the court to sign the Order on Motion for Default (FL All Family 162).
Do I need to tell the other party about this motion?
The form has sections to help determine if you must give the other party a copy and advance notice of a hearing.
What if I don't have to notify the other party?
If you do not have to notify the other party, you may ask the court to sign the Order 'ex parte,' which means without the other party present.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect June 1, 2026.

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