Are Divorce Records Public in Washington State? What You Can &#038; Can’t Access in 2024

Whether you’re researching family history, verifying legal status, or protecting your own privacy, knowing if divorce records are public in Washington State is important. Here’s what you need to know about access, privacy restrictions, and how to request divorce records in Washington.

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1. Are Divorce Records Public in Washington State?

Yes—divorce records are generally public in Washington State.

Washington follows open public records laws, which means most court documents, including divorce filings, decrees, and settlement agreements, are available for public view unless sealed by court order.

This means anyone can request to view or copy a divorce record, even if they were not involved in the case.

2. What Information Is Included in Public Divorce Records?

Public divorce records in Washington may include:

Full names of both spouses
Date of marriage and divorce
Case number and filing county
Child custody and support details
Property and asset division
Spousal support (alimony) agreements

🔒 Note: Sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and minor children’s names are typically redacted or kept confidential.

3. When Are Divorce Records Sealed or Restricted?

In certain situations, a court may seal part or all of a divorce record to protect sensitive information. Reasons include:

Domestic violence or abuse
Child custody concerns
High-profile or celebrity cases
Confidential health records and confidential reports?
Confidential financial agreements

To seal a record, a party must file a motion with the court and demonstrate good cause under Washington law (RCW 26.26A.255).

4. How to Access Divorce Records in Washington State

You can access divorce records in several ways:

✅ 1. Online via Washington Courts:

Visit Washington Courts Case Search to look up case information.

✅ 2. In-Person at the County Clerk’s Office:

Go to the courthouse where the divorce was filed. Bring the case number or full names of the parties.

✅ 3. Request Official Copies:

Certified copies of divorce decrees can be ordered through the county’s Superior Court Clerk.

Example: In King County, you can order a certified copy online through their clerk’s records portal.

5. Can You Keep Your Divorce Private in Washington State?

While the record is generally public, you can request to seal portions of the divorce file. Common steps include:

Filing a motion to seal specific documents
Keeping financial or child-related details out of the court file (handled through private agreement)
Using only initials or partial names when privacy is a concern

However, sealing is not guaranteed and requires judicial approval.

Conclusion

Yes, divorce records are public in Washington State, but not every detail is accessible. While basic case info is open, certain sensitive information can be sealed for privacy. Whether you’re requesting records or looking to protect your own, knowing your legal rights helps you navigate Washington’s public records system effectively.

If you’re facing a divorce in Washington State, don’t go through it alone. By staying informed and working with professionals who understand the nuances of international divorces, you can navigate this difficult time with greater confidence and clarity. Soriano Law LLC provides competent legal representation and advice about this and all things family law, please don’t hesitate to send us an email at ron@sorianolawllc.com. We can also provide FREE consultation. You may also call us at (360) 249-6174.