Snohomish County Divorce Records
What Are Snohomish County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Snohomish County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained by the Snohomish County Clerk's Office and are governed by the Washington State Revised Code § 26.09, which establishes the legal framework for dissolution of marriage proceedings within the state. Divorce records consist of various court filings, orders, and certificates that collectively document the legal termination of a marriage.
Divorce records in Snohomish County typically include:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage
- Summons
- Response to petition
- Temporary orders
- Parenting plans (if children are involved)
- Child support worksheets and orders
- Property division agreements
- Final decree of dissolution
These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and society, including:
- Providing legal proof of marital status change
- Enabling individuals to legally remarry
- Supporting name change processes
- Documenting eligibility for Social Security benefits
- Verifying status for loan applications
- Establishing legal status for immigration matters
- Creating historical documentation for genealogical research
The maintenance and accessibility of divorce records are essential functions of the county government, as these documents have significant legal implications for the parties involved and may be required for various administrative and personal purposes throughout an individual's lifetime.
Are Snohomish County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Snohomish County have a complex public access status that varies depending on the specific type of record and the information contained therein. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records pursuant to the Washington Public Records Act, RCW 42.56, but with significant exceptions and limitations.
The public accessibility of divorce records is governed by several legal frameworks:
- Court files for divorce proceedings are generally available for public inspection at the Snohomish County Courthouse, with certain restrictions.
- Certified divorce certificates with restricted access are available only to the parties involved and other authorized persons through the Washington State Department of Health.
- Certain sensitive information within divorce records may be sealed or redacted pursuant to Washington Court General Rule 31.
Information that may be restricted from public access includes:
- Financial records and account numbers
- Social Security numbers
- Names of minor children
- Medical and health information
- Allegations of domestic violence or abuse
- Information sealed by court order for privacy or safety concerns
Members of the public seeking to access divorce records must follow established procedures through the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office, which maintains these records and enforces applicable privacy protections. The clerk's office balances the public's right to access government records with the privacy interests of individuals involved in divorce proceedings.
Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 605
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3466
Snohomish County Clerk
How To Find a Divorce Record In Snohomish County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Snohomish County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific information needed and the requester's relationship to the case.
For court case files related to divorce proceedings:
- Visit the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office in person during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
- Complete a Court Records Request Form specifying the case number, names of parties, and approximate date of filing.
- Present valid photo identification.
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $0.50 per page for copies).
- For certified copies, additional fees apply (currently $5.00 per document).
For certified divorce certificates:
- Contact the Washington State Department of Health Vital Records office.
- Complete the official divorce certificate request form.
- Provide proof of identity and establish legal right to access the record.
- Submit the required fee (currently $25.00 per certificate).
- Allow processing time (typically 2-3 weeks for mail requests).
For historical divorce records (over 50 years old):
- Access the Washington State Digital Archives online.
- Navigate to the marriage and divorce records collection.
- Enter search criteria including names and approximate dates.
- View and download available digital images of historical records.
Requesters should note that complete divorce case files are maintained by the county where the divorce was finalized, while the state maintains the official certificate of divorce. For divorces finalized in other counties, requesters should contact the appropriate county clerk's office.
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Snohomish County Online?
Snohomish County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce records online, though the availability of complete records varies based on the age of the case and confidentiality restrictions. The following online search methods are currently available:
-
Snohomish County Superior Court Case Information Portal
- Visit the Snohomish County Superior Court Records Search
- Select "Public Case Records Search"
- Enter search criteria (name, case number, or filing date range)
- Case types to select: "Dissolution with Children" or "Dissolution without Children"
- Review basic case information including filing date, parties, and case status
-
Washington Courts Name Search
- Access the Washington State Courts Name and Case Search
- Enter the name of either party to the divorce
- Select Snohomish County from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Review case listings, which include basic filing information and current status
-
Washington State Digital Archives
- Visit the Washington State Digital Archives
- Select "Marriage Records" collection
- Enter search parameters including names and date ranges
- Historical divorce records (generally older than 50 years) may be available as digital images
Important limitations of online searches include:
- Full case documents are generally not available for download online
- Only basic case information (parties, dates, case numbers) is typically displayed
- Sealed or confidential cases may not appear in search results
- Recent filings may experience processing delays before appearing online
For complete divorce case files, including all pleadings, orders, and exhibits, requesters must still submit formal requests through the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office either in person or by mail.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Snohomish County?
Snohomish County residents and other interested parties may access certain divorce record information without payment, though comprehensive access typically involves some fees. The following methods provide free or low-cost access to divorce record information:
-
In-Person Case Index Search
- Visit the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
- Request to view the public access terminals
- Search the case index by name or case number
- Basic case information can be viewed without charge
- Note: Viewing actual case documents requires payment of copy fees
-
Public Law Library Resources
- Visit the Snohomish County Law Library located at:
Snohomish County Law Library
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 502
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3337- Access public terminals for legal research
- Obtain assistance from law librarians for locating case information
- Review publicly available court dockets and indexes
-
Online Basic Case Information
- Use the Washington Courts Public Case Search
- Enter party names to locate case numbers and filing dates
- Basic case status information is available without charge
- Note: This provides only limited information, not actual documents
-
Historical Records Research
- Access the Washington State Digital Archives online
- Search historical divorce records (typically older than 50 years)
- View and download available digital images at no cost
While basic information may be accessed without payment, fees typically apply for:
- Copies of actual court documents ($0.50 per page)
- Certified copies of court documents ($5.00 per document)
- Certified divorce certificates from the Department of Health ($25.00)
- Research assistance requiring staff time (varies by request complexity)
Individuals with financial hardship may apply for a fee waiver through the court by filing a motion and declaration for waiver of civil fees and surcharges pursuant to General Rule 34 of the Washington Court Rules.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Snohomish County
Divorce records in Snohomish County comprise a comprehensive collection of legal documents that chronicle the entire dissolution process from initiation to final judgment. These records are maintained by the Snohomish County Clerk's Office as the official custodian of Superior Court records. A complete divorce file typically contains the following components:
Initial Filings:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The formal request to terminate the marriage
- Summons - Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
- Confidential Information Form - Contains sensitive personal information not available to the public
- Vital Statistics Form - Statistical information for state record-keeping
Procedural Documents:
- Proof of Service - Documentation showing the respondent received the divorce papers
- Response/Answer to Petition - The non-filing spouse's formal reply
- Notice of Appearance - Attorney representation documentation
- Case Schedule - Timeline for court proceedings and deadlines
Financial Disclosures:
- Financial Declaration - Sworn statement of assets, debts, income, and expenses
- Tax Returns and Pay Stubs - Documentation of financial status
- Property and Debt Lists - Inventories of marital and separate property
- Business Valuation Reports - For couples with business interests
Child-Related Documents (if applicable):
- Parenting Plan - Detailed custody and visitation arrangements
- Child Support Worksheets - Calculations for support obligations
- Residential Schedule - Specific timesharing arrangements
- Relocation Restrictions - Rules regarding moving with children
Temporary Orders:
- Temporary Restraining Orders - Emergency protections if needed
- Temporary Support Orders - Interim financial arrangements
- Temporary Custody Orders - Interim parenting arrangements
Final Documents:
- Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law - Court's factual determinations
- Final Decree of Dissolution - The official judgment ending the marriage
- Property Division Order - Final distribution of assets and debts
- Parenting Plan (Final) - Court-approved custody arrangement
- Child Support Order - Final support obligations
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - For division of retirement accounts
These documents collectively provide a comprehensive legal record of the dissolution process and the court's final determinations regarding all aspects of the marital dissolution, including property division, debt allocation, spousal maintenance, child custody, and support obligations.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Snohomish County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Snohomish County have several options for obtaining certified documentation. The appropriate method depends on the specific purpose for which proof is needed and the level of detail required.
For a certified copy of the Final Decree of Dissolution:
- Contact the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
- Provide the case number, names of parties, and approximate date of divorce
- Submit a written request using the Court Records Request Form
- Pay the certification fee (currently $5.00 per document plus $0.50 per page)
- Requests can be made in person, by mail, or through an authorized representative
Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 605
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3466
For an official Certificate of Divorce (state-issued document):
- Contact the Washington State Department of Health Vital Records
- Complete the official divorce certificate request form
- Provide identification proving eligibility to receive the record
- Submit the required fee (currently $25.00)
- Allow processing time (typically 2-3 weeks for mail requests)
Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
360-236-4300
For apostille certification (international use):
- First obtain a certified copy from the Snohomish County Clerk
- Submit the certified copy to the Washington Secretary of State for apostille
- Include required forms and fees for apostille processing
- Allow additional processing time for international certification
Acceptable forms of identification when requesting records in person include:
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID)
- Two pieces of alternative identification with name and signature
- Court order authorizing access to the record
Requesters should specify whether they need the complete divorce decree or only the certificate of divorce, as these documents serve different purposes and contain different levels of detail about the dissolution.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Snohomish County?
While divorce proceedings in Snohomish County are generally matters of public record, Washington state law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The confidentiality of divorce records is governed by Washington Court General Rule 31 and various provisions of the Revised Code of Washington.
Circumstances under which divorce records may be confidential include:
-
Sealing of Specific Documents
- Parties may petition the court to seal specific sensitive documents
- The court applies a balancing test weighing privacy interests against public access rights
- Financial records, medical information, and psychological evaluations are commonly sealed
- The court must make written findings that justify sealing under Seattle Times v. Ishikawa standards
-
Redaction of Sensitive Information
- Certain personal identifiers are automatically redacted from public view:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children
- Birth dates
- Driver's license numbers
- Certain personal identifiers are automatically redacted from public view:
-
Confidential Law Enforcement Information
- Information related to active investigations
- Victim or witness protection details
- Domestic violence safety planning information
-
Restricted Access to Family Court Services Records
- Guardian ad litem reports
- Custody evaluations
- Parenting evaluations
- These records are confidential per RCW 26.12.080
-
Complete Case Sealing
- In extraordinary circumstances, an entire case may be sealed
- Requires compelling privacy or safety concerns
- Must meet strict constitutional standards for limiting public access
- Rare and requires substantial justification
Parties seeking confidentiality must file a motion with the Snohomish County Superior Court demonstrating specific reasons why particular information should be protected from public disclosure. The court evaluates these requests on a case-by-case basis, applying the legal standards established by Washington case law and court rules.
It is important to note that even when records are sealed from general public access, they remain available to the parties, their attorneys, and authorized court personnel. Additionally, sealed records may be unsealed by subsequent court order if circumstances change or upon petition by interested parties.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Snohomish County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Snohomish County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity, cooperation between parties, and court scheduling. Under Washington state law, specifically RCW 26.09.030, a mandatory 90-day waiting period exists between the filing of a petition for dissolution and the finalization of the divorce, regardless of circumstances.
Beyond this minimum timeframe, several factors influence the total duration:
Uncontested Divorces:
- Typical timeframe: 3-5 months
- Requirements: Complete agreement on all issues
- Process: Parties file joint petition or respondent does not contest
- Finalization: After mandatory 90-day waiting period plus processing time
- Expediting factors: Pre-prepared settlement agreements, prompt document submission
Contested Divorces:
- Typical timeframe: 9-18 months
- Variables affecting duration:
- Property valuation complexities
- Business ownership interests
- Pension and retirement division
- Child custody disputes
- Spousal maintenance disagreements
- High-conflict communication patterns
Procedural Timelines:
- Initial filing to service: 1-30 days
- Response period: 20-60 days
- Temporary orders hearing: 2-6 weeks after filing
- Discovery phase: 3-6 months
- Settlement conferences: 6-9 months after filing
- Trial (if necessary): 12-18 months after filing
Court Congestion Factors:
- Current Snohomish County Superior Court caseload
- Judge availability for hearings and trials
- Seasonal variations in filing volumes
- Availability of court services (evaluators, guardians ad litem)
According to statistics from the Washington Courts Administrative Office, the median time from filing to disposition for dissolution cases in Snohomish County is approximately 10.2 months, though this varies by case type and complexity.
Parties seeking to minimize the duration of divorce proceedings are advised to:
- Prepare complete financial disclosures early
- Consider alternative dispute resolution (mediation, collaborative divorce)
- Promptly respond to discovery requests
- Focus on settlement of non-contested issues
- Utilize court-connected services for parenting plan development
The Snohomish County Superior Court Family Law Facilitator provides resources to help parties navigate the process efficiently.
How Long Does Snohomish County Keep Divorce Records?
Snohomish County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established under Washington state law and administrative regulations. The Washington State Archives provides oversight for records retention throughout the state, including court records in Snohomish County.
The retention periods for divorce records vary by document type and historical significance:
Court Case Files:
- Complete case files: Permanent retention for cases filed before 1940
- Case files after 1940: Minimum 60-year retention period
- Files with historical significance: Selected for permanent archival preservation
- Digital case management records: Permanent retention in electronic format
Indexes and Registers:
- Court docket books and indexes: Permanent retention
- Microfilmed indexes: Permanent retention
- Electronic case indexes: Permanent retention in digital archives
Administrative Records:
- Exhibits: Retained until case closure plus 60 days, or until all appeals exhausted
- Working files: Retained until case closure plus 6 years
- Financial records: Retained 6 years after fiscal year of transaction
This retention schedule is established pursuant to RCW 40.14, which governs the preservation and destruction of public records in Washington state.
After the initial retention period in the Snohomish County Clerk's Office, records may be:
- Transferred to the Washington State Archives Puget Sound Regional Branch
- Microfilmed or digitized for permanent preservation
- Made available through the Washington State Digital Archives
For historical divorce records (generally older than 60 years), researchers should contact:
Washington State Archives - Puget Sound Regional Branch
Pritchard-Fleming Building
3000 Landerholm Circle SE, MS-N100
Bellevue, WA 98007
425-564-3940
Individuals seeking divorce records should note that while the physical documents may be transferred to archival facilities after their active retention period, the legal record of the divorce is maintained permanently through indexes and digital systems, ensuring continued accessibility for authorized purposes.
How To Get a Divorce In Snohomish County
Obtaining a divorce in Snohomish County requires following specific legal procedures established under Washington state law. The process, formally known as "dissolution of marriage," is governed by RCW 26.09 and involves several distinct steps.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Either spouse must be a resident of Washington state
- No minimum residency period required
- Filing must occur in the county where either spouse resides
- Washington is a "no-fault" divorce state; only "irretrievable breakdown" needed
Step 1: Initial Filing
- Complete the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- File at the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
- Pay filing fee (currently $314; fee waivers available for low-income individuals)
- Obtain a case number and summons
Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 605
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3466
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Step 2: Service of Process
- Serve the non-filing spouse with copies of the petition and summons
- Service options include:
- Personal service by a professional process server
- Service by a non-party over 18 years of age
- Acceptance of service (voluntary)
- Alternative service by court order if necessary
- File proof of service with the court
Step 3: Response Period
- Respondent has 20 days to file a response if served in Washington
- 60 days if served outside Washington but within the United States
- 90 days if served outside the United States
- Response may agree or disagree with terms in the petition
Step 4: Temporary Orders (if needed)
- Request orders for temporary:
- Child custody and support
- Spousal maintenance
- Use of property and assets
- Restraining orders if necessary
- Attend temporary orders hearing
Step 5: Financial Disclosure and Discovery
- Complete financial declaration forms
- Exchange information about assets, debts, income
- Formal discovery may include interrogatories, depositions, and document requests
Step 6: Negotiation and Settlement
- Attempt to reach agreement on all issues
- Mediation is required in cases involving children
- Settlement conferences available through the court
Step 7: Trial (if necessary)
- Present evidence and testimony to the court
- Judge makes final decisions on contested issues
- Trial dates typically scheduled 9-12 months after filing
Step 8: Finalization
- Prepare final orders (Decree of Dissolution, Parenting Plan, Child Support Order)
- Submit for judge's signature
- Divorce becomes final when judge signs decree
- Minimum 90-day waiting period required from filing and service
For assistance with forms and procedures, the Snohomish County Law Library and Family Law Facilitator provide resources to self-represented litigants.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Snohomish County
Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Snohomish County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms, commonly referred to as "divorce papers." These documents constitute the foundation of the legal process and must be completed accurately to ensure proper filing.
Option 1: Washington Courts Website
- Visit the Washington Courts Divorce Forms webpage
- Download standardized state forms in fillable PDF format
- Forms are categorized by situation (with/without children, contested/uncontested)
- Basic forms include:
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Summons
- Confidential Information Form
- Financial Declaration
- Notice About Military Dependent
Option 2: Snohomish County Law Library
- Visit in person during regular business hours:
Snohomish County Law Library
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 502
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3337
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Access printed form packets with instructions
- Utilize reference materials for guidance
- Receive assistance locating appropriate forms
- Use public computers for form completion
Option 3: Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
- Visit the clerk's office at:
Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 605
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3466
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Request specific divorce forms
- Purchase form packets (nominal fee may apply)
- Obtain filing instructions and checklists
Option 4: Family Law Facilitator Program
- Schedule an appointment with the facilitator:
Snohomish County Family Law Facilitator
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, M/S 502
Everett, WA 98201
425-388-3795
- Receive guidance on form selection and completion
- Review completed forms for completeness (not legal advice)
- Learn about court procedures and requirements
- Service available for a modest fee (currently $25 per session)
Option 5: Legal Self-Help Centers
- Visit the Snohomish County Legal Services self-help center
- Attend walk-in clinics for form assistance
- Access volunteer attorney brief advice sessions
- Utilize self-help computers and resources
Important considerations when obtaining divorce papers:
- Forms must be the current versions approved by the Administrative Office of the Courts
- Different forms are required depending on specific circumstances (children, property, etc.)
- Some forms require notarization before filing
- Filing fees apply (currently $314) unless a fee waiver is granted
All forms must be completed accurately and filed with the Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk's Office to initiate the divorce process.
Lookup Divorce Records in Snohomish County
Public Records in Snohomish County
Access Court Records in Snohomish County
Snohomish County Clerk Services
Superior Court Clerk Information
Washington State Vital Records
Marriage and Divorce Records from Washington Department of Health
Washington State Digital Archives