In most cases, each spouse pays their own attorney fees and costs. However, it is not uncommon for a court to order the financially stronger spouse to pay the Washington state divorce attorney fees and costs incurred by the other under Washington state statute RCW 26.09.140. The judge will consider the income of each spouse, their financial obligations, and their assets. For example, if one spouse cannot afford to proceed with the divorce without help and the other is well-fixed, the court may remedy the situation by awarding reasonable attorney fees and costs to the spouse who needs it.