King County Court Records
What Is King County Court Records
Court records in King County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's judicial system. These records serve as the comprehensive documentation of court activities and are maintained pursuant to Washington Courts General Rule 31. Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and briefs
- Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing records in criminal matters
- Court calendars and scheduling information
Court records are distinct from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics (birth, death, marriage certificates), and tax records, which are maintained by separate county departments. In King County, court records are maintained by several courts within the jurisdiction:
- King County Superior Court
- King County District Court
- Municipal Courts (Seattle, Bellevue, Kent, etc.)
- King County Juvenile Court
- King County Family Court Services
- King County Probate Court
These courts collectively maintain records for civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic infractions, and small claims cases. Under the Washington Public Records Act, RCW 42.56, court records are generally considered public documents, though specific exemptions exist to protect sensitive information.
Are Court Records Public In King County
Court records in King County are predominantly public documents, accessible to any person without demonstrating a particular need or reason for access. This right of public access is established by the Washington Public Records Act, RCW 42.56 and further defined by Washington Courts General Rule 31, which governs access to court records specifically.
The following court records are generally available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with limited redactions for sensitive information)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Court dockets and indices
- Judgments, orders, and decrees
- Court calendars and hearing schedules
- Verdict forms and sentencing information
However, certain records may be sealed or redacted pursuant to § GR 15 of the Washington Court Rules, which provides procedures for restricting access to court records. Records that may be restricted include:
- Juvenile court records (subject to specific statutory provisions)
- Adoption proceedings
- Mental health commitment records
- Family law records containing sensitive information
- Records sealed by court order upon showing of compelling privacy or safety concerns
- Records containing social security numbers, financial account numbers, or other personal identifiers
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington (located in Seattle) are governed by federal rules and accessed through the federal PACER system, not through King County's record systems.
How To Find Court Records in King County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in King County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains multiple access points for court records retrieval:
Online Access:
- The KC Script Portal provides access to Superior Court records, including documents and audio recordings
- The Washington State Courts Name and Case Search allows searching across multiple courts
- The King County Records Search provides access to recorded documents
In-Person Access:
- Identify the appropriate court that maintains the desired records
- Visit the clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, providing case number or party names
- Pay applicable copy fees if obtaining physical copies
By Mail:
- Download and complete the appropriate records request form from the court's website
- Include specific case information and required fees
- Mail to the appropriate court clerk's office
By Email:
- Some courts accept email requests for specific documents
- Include case number, document title, and contact information
- Follow payment instructions provided by the clerk's office
For certified copies of court records, requestors must typically appear in person or submit requests by mail with appropriate certification fees. Pursuant to § GR 31.1, courts may charge reasonable fees for reproduction of records, with current rates available on each court's website.
How To Look Up Court Records in King County Online?
King County offers several online portals for accessing court records electronically. Each system contains different types of records and requires specific search methods:
KC Script Portal: The KC Script Portal is the primary system for accessing King County Superior Court records. Users can:
- Create a free account or log in as a guest
- Search by case number, party name, or attorney
- View docket information at no charge
- Purchase and download documents for a fee
- Request audio recordings of court proceedings
District Court Records: The King County District Court provides access to:
- Case information through the statewide JIS-Link system
- Traffic infractions and citations
- Small claims cases
- Criminal misdemeanors
Washington Courts Portal: The Washington State Courts Odyssey Portal provides:
- Access to case information across multiple courts
- Calendar information
- Party and attorney information
- Limited document access
King County Recorder's Office: The King County Records Search provides:
- Access to recorded documents including property records
- Marriage licenses
- UCC filings
- Documents recorded since August 1, 1991
When searching online, users should have specific information ready, such as:
- Case number (preferred search method)
- Full legal names of parties involved
- Approximate date range of the case
- Case type (civil, criminal, family, etc.)
Some documents may not be available online due to confidentiality restrictions or because they predate electronic filing systems. In such instances, requestors may need to contact the appropriate clerk's office directly.
How To Search King County Court Records for Free?
King County provides several options for searching court records at no cost, in accordance with Washington's commitment to public access to government records. The following free search options are available:
Public Access Terminals: Each King County courthouse maintains public access terminals that provide free on-site access to court records:
King County Superior Court Clerk's Office
516 Third Avenue, Room E-609
Seattle, WA 98104
206-477-3000
King County Superior Court
King County District Court
Multiple locations throughout the county
206-205-9200
King County District Court
Free Online Search Options:
- The KC Script Portal allows free searching and viewing of case dockets and register of actions (document viewing requires payment)
- The Washington Courts Name and Case Search provides free access to basic case information
- The Find My Court Date tool allows free searching of scheduled court appearances
- The King County Records Search provides free searching of recorded documents
While searching is free, fees may apply for:
- Printed copies of documents (typically $0.25-$0.50 per page)
- Certified copies (additional certification fee)
- Electronic document downloads from certain systems
- Audio recordings of court proceedings
Pursuant to § GR 31(e) of the Washington Court Rules, courts must provide reasonable access to court records at no cost for viewing. However, courts may charge actual costs of reproduction for copies of records.
What's Included in a King County Court Record?
Court records in King County contain various documents and information depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. A comprehensive court record typically includes:
Case Initiation Documents:
- Complaints or petitions in civil cases
- Information or indictments in criminal cases
- Summonses and service of process documentation
- Initial appearances and arraignment records
Procedural Documents:
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Responses and replies to motions
- Court orders and rulings
- Scheduling notices and continuances
- Discovery-related documents (when filed with the court)
Evidentiary Materials:
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Witness lists and testimony
- Expert reports filed with the court
- Deposition transcripts (when filed)
- Affidavits and declarations
Disposition Documents:
- Judgments and decrees
- Verdicts (jury or bench)
- Sentencing orders in criminal cases
- Settlement agreements (when filed)
- Dismissal orders
Post-Judgment Documents:
- Appeals and notices of appeal
- Satisfaction of judgment notices
- Post-conviction motions
- Probation/parole documents
- Collection and enforcement documents
Administrative Records:
- Case docket/register of actions
- Court reporter transcripts
- Audio recordings of proceedings
- Clerk's minutes
- Jury selection records (with personal information redacted)
Certain sensitive information is typically redacted from public court records pursuant to Washington Courts General Rule 31, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Names of minor children in certain cases
- Personal health information
How Long Does King County Keep Court Records?
King County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Washington State Archives and the Administrative Office of the Courts. Retention periods vary based on case type, disposition, and historical significance. The following retention periods are currently in effect:
Superior Court Records:
- Felony cases: 50 years after case closure for Class A felonies; 10-20 years for other felonies
- Civil cases: 6-10 years after case closure, depending on case type
- Domestic relations cases: 25 years after case closure
- Probate cases: 10 years after case closure
- Juvenile offender cases: Until subject's 23rd birthday or last date of jurisdiction
- Adoption records: Permanently maintained
District Court Records:
- Criminal misdemeanors: 10 years after case closure
- Traffic infractions: 3 years after case closure
- Small claims: 6 years after case closure
- Civil cases: 6 years after case closure
Records of Historical Significance: Certain records deemed to have historical significance are preserved permanently, including:
- Cases establishing significant precedent
- Cases involving prominent individuals or events
- Cases with substantial public interest
- Records from before 1940
These retention periods are established pursuant to RCW 40.14, which governs the preservation and destruction of public records in Washington State. After the retention period expires, records may be transferred to the Washington State Archives, microfilmed, or destroyed according to approved procedures.
It is important to note that while the physical records may be destroyed after the retention period, electronic indices and basic case information may be maintained for longer periods or permanently in electronic systems.
Types of Courts In King County
King County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority levels:
King County Superior Court
516 Third Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
206-477-1400
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
King County Superior Court
Maleng Regional Justice Center (Superior Court)
401 4th Avenue North
Kent, WA 98032
206-477-2600
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
King County Superior Court
King County District Court - Seattle Division
516 Third Avenue, Room W-230
Seattle, WA 98104
206-205-9200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
King County District Court
King County District Court - Burien Division
601 SW 149th Street
Burien, WA 98166
206-205-9200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
King County District Court
King County District Court - Redmond Division
8601 160th Avenue NE
Redmond, WA 98052
206-205-9200
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
King County District Court
Seattle Municipal Court
600 Fifth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
206-684-5600
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Seattle Municipal Court
Washington Court of Appeals, Division I
600 University Street
Seattle, WA 98101
206-464-7750
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Washington Court of Appeals
Washington Supreme Court
Temple of Justice
415 12th Avenue SW
Olympia, WA 98504
360-357-2077
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Washington Supreme Court
The court hierarchy in Washington State follows this progression: Municipal/District Courts → Superior Courts → Court of Appeals → Supreme Court. Each level has specific jurisdiction and authority as defined by state law.
What Types of Cases Do King County Courts Hear?
King County's various courts have distinct jurisdictional authority to hear specific types of cases:
King County Superior Court:
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil matters involving claims exceeding $100,000
- Real property disputes
- Domestic relations (divorce, custody, child support)
- Probate and estate matters
- Mental illness commitments
- Juvenile offenses and dependencies
- Appeals from lower courts
- Tax disputes
King County District Court:
- Criminal misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors
- Civil cases with claims up to $100,000
- Small claims (up to $10,000)
- Traffic infractions
- Domestic violence protection orders
- Anti-harassment orders
- Name changes
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
Municipal Courts (Seattle, Bellevue, etc.):
- City ordinance violations
- Traffic infractions within city limits
- Criminal misdemeanors committed within city limits
- Parking violations
- Certain civil infractions
Washington Court of Appeals, Division I:
- Appeals from Superior Court decisions
- Administrative agency appeals
- Original actions for writs of mandamus, prohibition, or review
Washington Supreme Court:
- Appeals from Court of Appeals decisions
- Direct review of certain Superior Court cases
- Original actions involving state officers
- Disciplinary proceedings for attorneys and judges
- Constitutional questions
Case assignment is determined by several factors including the nature of the case, amount in controversy, geographic location of the incident, and whether the matter involves state or local law. The jurisdiction of these courts is established by the Washington State Constitution, Article IV and implemented through various statutes in the Revised Code of Washington.
How To Find a Court Docket In King County
Court dockets in King County, which provide chronological listings of all filings and proceedings in a case, can be accessed through several methods:
Online Docket Access:
- For Superior Court cases, visit the KC Script Portal and search by case number or party name
- For District Court cases, use the District Court Case Access Resources
- For statewide court information, use the Washington Courts Name and Case Search
In-Person Docket Access:
- Visit the clerk's office of the appropriate court
- Request docket information at the public service counter
- Provide case number or party names to the clerk
- Review docket information on public access terminals
Docket Information by Phone: Some limited docket information may be available by calling the appropriate clerk's office:
- Superior Court Clerk: 206-477-3000
- District Court Clerk: 206-205-9200
When searching for docket information, it is helpful to have:
- Complete case number (preferred)
- Full legal names of all parties
- Approximate date the case was filed
- Case type (civil, criminal, family, etc.)
Court dockets typically include:
- Case number and filing date
- Party names and attorney information
- Chronological listing of all documents filed
- Court appearances and hearing dates
- Judicial rulings and orders
- Case status and disposition
Pursuant to Washington Courts General Rule 31, docket information is generally public, though certain sensitive cases may have restricted access. Docket searches are typically available at no cost, though fees may apply for printed copies or certified docket sheets.
Which Courts in King County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Washington State, courts are designated as either "courts of record" or "courts not of record" pursuant to RCW 3.30.015. This distinction affects how proceedings are documented and the appeal process. In King County, the following are courts not of record:
Municipal Courts:
- Seattle Municipal Court
- Bellevue Municipal Court
- Kent Municipal Court
- Renton Municipal Court
- Federal Way Municipal Court
- Auburn Municipal Court
- Issaquah Municipal Court
- Kirkland Municipal Court
- Shoreline Municipal Court
- Tukwila Municipal Court
A "court not of record" has the following characteristics:
- Proceedings are not recorded verbatim by a court reporter
- Appeals from these courts are heard de novo (new trial) in Superior Court
- The court may maintain audio recordings, but these are not official transcripts
- Judges may or may not be required to be attorneys
In contrast, courts of record in King County include:
- King County Superior Court
- Washington Court of Appeals, Division I
- Washington Supreme Court
King County District Court occupies a unique position. While historically classified as courts not of record, District Courts now maintain electronic recordings of proceedings and employ court reporters for certain matters. However, appeals from District Court are still generally heard de novo in Superior Court, consistent with the treatment of courts not of record.
The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is important for litigants to understand, as it affects both how proceedings are documented and the nature of any subsequent appeals.
Lookup Court Records in King County
Accessing Superior Court Records
Washington State Courts Name and Case Search
Washington State Courts Odyssey Portal