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Courts, jails, and legal system

Popular pages

District Court

King County District Court's 25 elected judges hear a range of civil and criminal cases at 10 locations throughout the County.

Superior Court

King County Superior Court is a general jurisdiction trial court. That means we can hear any kind of civil or criminal case, including family law, and juvenile cases.

Superior Court Clerk/Department of Judicial Administration

The county clerk is an official who maintains the official records of superior court cases, oversees all record-keeping pertaining to those court cases, and administers justice system programs. In King County, the county clerk also has the title of Director of the Department of Judicial Administration, an executive branch department.

District Court eFiling/case access

Find case information for most KCDC cases, including case type, cause of action, parties, past and upcoming hearings, judgment information, conditions of sentence for criminal cases, warrant status, protection order status and index of documents filed.

Prosecuting Attorney

The Prosecuting Attorney's Office represents the state and county in both criminal and civil legal matters. We are responsible for prosecuting all felonies in King County and all misdemeanors in unincorporated areas of King County.

Protection orders from District Court

Learn more about the process for Protection Orders in King County District Court for 5 kinds of protection order: Antiharassment Protection Order, Stalking Protection Order, Domestic Violence Protection Order, Sexual Assault Protection Order, Extreme Risk Protection Order (temporary).

Protection orders from Superior Court Clerk

Civil protection orders are available from the Superior Court Clerk for situations involving domestic or family violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, extreme risk, or vulnerable adult situations.

Protection Order Advocacy Program - Prosecuting Attorney's Office

Learn more about protection orders through the Protection Order Advocacy Program (POAP) of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office. Start your protection order using the King County Protection Order Portal (POP).

Public Defense

The Department of Public Defense provides legal representation to adults and youth who have been charged with a crime and cannot afford an attorney.

Sheriff's office

King County Sheriff's Office serves the needs of people in unincorporated areas and 12 contract cities. We also provide police departments for the Muckleshoot Tribe, Metro and Sound Transit and the King County International Airport.

Superior Court E-Filing

Information and how to E-file with the Superior Court Clerk

Locate a person in jail

Learn how to find out if an adult is in custody at a King County jail.

Additional links

9-1-1 Communications Careers

As a 9-1-1 Communications Specialist, you will serve as the primary link between people in need of emergency assistance and the individuals who can provide it.   Every day is different; you never know what kind of call you may receive next. You might handle a car accident, provide support to a victim of domestic violence, initiate a search and rescue mission, or serve as a lifeline to a deputy in need of aid on the street.   If you're interested in making a difference in the lives of others and want to join our team, then take the first step today!

About Juvenile Court

Juvenile Court hears your case  If you are younger than 18 years old and accused of an breaking a law. Learn about our approach and the court process.

About the 9-1-1 Communications Center

The King County Sheriff's Office Communications Center is one of 11 Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in the county, handling unincorporated King County, twelve contract partners, the Muckleshoot Reservation, King County International Airport, as well as Metro / Sound Transit Police.

About the Family Treatment Court Program

Learn more about the history and purpose of the program that is an alternative to regular Dependency Court for parents who want to support their family.

About truancy

Learn more about the history and laws behind truancy rules and laws.

About working with the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) offers rewarding careers with competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

Accident reports

If you are involved an accident, call 9-1-1 for a police response. If the police complete a written report, you do not need to complete an accident report, you just need to contact your insurance company.

Adoption

Adoption is a unique process for every case. We provide general forms and can help guide you through the court processes.

Adoption packets

Our Adoption Services assists in limited types of adoptions. We also do reviews of adoption termination, finalization, and review hearings. Adoption packets can be purchased in-person (by appointment) or by written request.

Adoption records

Learn how to request your adoption records from Washington state and how they are used in Family Law court motions.

Adoptions process

How we help with the process and resources for learning more about adoption.

Adult guardianship

How to start or close a legal guardianship case for a person over the age of 18. Includes instructions for what to do after you have been appointed and how to complete periodic (annual/bi-annual, or tri-annual) guardianship reports. n field]

Adult Jails - Seattle and Kent

King County’s two adult detention facilities are the King County Correctional Facility (KCCF) in Seattle and the Maleng Regional Justice Center (MRJC) in Kent.

Air Support Unit

King County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit provides 24/7 support for all of King County and surrounding agencies/regional partners.  This unit provides a strategic combination of Helicopters and various sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and UAVs (unmanned Aerial Vehicles) for many types of incidents.  Learn more!

Alien Firearm License (AFL)

Learn more about applying for or replacing an AFL. 

Apply – Family Treatment Court

Learn if you are eligible to apply for the Family Treatment Court (FTC) Program, how to apply, the rules of the program, and what you need to graduate from it.

At-Risk Youth Program

The purpose of the At-Risk Youth Program is to provide support for families, with or without Judicial oversight.  Supportive options include the At-Risk Youth legal petition, family mediation and/or case management services to refer families for:   Behavioral health interventions Education reengagement Community supports  

Become a corrections officer in King County

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) contributes to the public safety of the people of King County and Washington state by operating safe, secure, and humane detention facilities and community corrections programs.

Blake requests for drug convictions

Learn how the Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO) is working on prior drug convictions after the State v Blake decision.

Canadian Protection Order Forms

Chapter 26.55 RCW A person can file an existing Canadian domestic violence protection order in Washington. They can ask for an order to recognize or deny recognition and enforcement. Washington courts must follow the Canadian order's terms. Changes cannot be added unless the court refuses to enforce the Canadian order. 

Chief civil calendar - Superior Court

Learn more about how to find and join your hearings on the chief civil calendar.

Child in Need of Services program

Guidance on obtaining a court order for temporary placement of a child in a residence other than the home of their parent when other meditation services cannot help.

Civil bench warrants

Learn more about the Civil bench warrant process. 

Civil Protection Orders

Chapter 7.105 RCW Petitions for civil protection orders can be filed for: domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, and for vulnerable adults. A petition to surrender weapons can be filed with any civil protection order petition.  A civil protection order is used to address safety and can order someone not to injure, threaten, or harass you, your family, or others. An order to surrender weapons is used to stop a restricted person from possessing weapons.     Not sure which protection order is right for you? This resource from the Protection Order Advocacy Program of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office may help. 

Clearance letters

As of February 1, 2018, the King County Sheriff’s Office, as well any of our contract cities, no longer processes requests for Clearance Letters.

Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) program

Learn about our survivor-centered program addressing commercial sexual exploitation of children.

Commonly used Juvenile Court forms

We have put all the documents you may need before, during and after the process in one place.

Community Attendance Support Team

The King County Community Attendance Support Team (CAST) is a county-level Community Engagement Board, facilitated by the King County Superior Court Becca Program.

Community corrections - alternatives to detention

Learn more about alternatives to jail in King County.

Community Courts

Learn what community court is and the benefits it provides to participants and the community.

Community Police Academy

King County - Sammamish - Woodinville Community Police Academy is accepting applications for 2025! 

Community Resource Centers - District Court

The resource center at each King County District Court community court includes on-site community partners that provide a wide array of services. By coming together in one place, many different community service agencies are better able to collaborate. We also offer a virtual resource center via videoconference and telephone.

Community Supervision (Probation) - Juvenile Court Services

How we help youth with court-ordered obligations.

Concealed Pistol License (CPL)

Learn how to obtain or renew a Concealed Pistol License through the King County Sheriff's office.

Contact an adult in jail

If you are a friend or family member of a person in custody at the Seattle or Kent jails, there are a few ways to contact them. There are specific guidelines you will need to follow for each contact method.

Contact or visit a youth in detention

How to contact or visit youth in detention at the Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center. 

Court hearings for people in jail/detention

How to find out more about court cases and hearings for adults in jail and youth in detention.

Crime prevention and safety

There are many resources on the web that can help you protect yourself, your loved ones, and your possessions. Here, we offer a few tips and encourage you to visit other sites as well.

Criminal calendars - Superior Court

Chief Criminal Calendars are updated for both Seattle and Kent by 3 pm each day for the following court day.

Criminal cases

Learn how to tell if a ticket is for a criminal charge or a traffic infraction, and how you must respond.

Criminal warrants

King County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Warrants Unit enforces court orders issued by the Superior Court, including: Service of felony and civil arrest warrants  Attending felony arraignment courts  Transportation of prisoners to and from King County facilities  Operating the state cooperative prisoner shuttle system  Extradition of fugitives from inside and outside Washington State

Custodial interference / parental kidnapping (writs of habeas corpus)

For information on matters such as custodial interference or parental kidnapping, please contact our Child Find Unit at 206-263-2117.

Data and reports - Adult and Juvenile Detention

Explore open datasets and reports from King County's Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention.

Dependency Court

Dependency is part of Juvenile Court and focuses on ensuring the safety and well-being of children.

Deputy Sheriff Careers

Interested in a career as a deputy sheriff in King County? Find out more about entry-level and lateral positions.

Derelict vessels

Derelict and abandoned vessels are a widespread problem in Washington State and King County.

Disability Accommodations

If you have a disability and you believe you may need an accommodation to fully and equally participate in a particular King County District Court proceeding or activity, you may request a reasonable accommodation.

Disability accommodations - Superior Court

Learn how to request an accommodation if you have a disability and believe you may need an accommodation to fully and equally participate in a court proceeding or activity.

Disposal of unwanted firearms or ammo

Did you know King County Sheriff’s Office can assist you in disposing of any unwanted firearms or ammunition if you are a resident of unincorporated King County or reside in one of our contract cities? The department offers scheduled appointments to turn in any unwanted guns or ammunitions to any unincorporated KCSO precinct and contract city listed below.

Disqualifiers

The King County Sheriff's Office may disqualify any candidate whose background includes the following. If you fall under one of these categories or believe you could, you can call us at 206-263-6896 before submitting your application.

Disqualifiers

The King County Sheriff's Office may disqualify any candidate whose background includes the following. If you fall under one of these categories or believe you could, you can call us at 206-263-6896 before submitting your application.

Diversion and Partnership for Youth Justice  

Diversion keeps youth out of the formal court process so they can get services in their community and avoid a criminal record. The Prosecuting Attorney's Office refer youth for diversion. The case returns to the prosecutor if a youth does not complete or create a Diversion Agreement. The prosecutor might decide to file criminal charges.

Divorce, custody, and adoption

Get guidance on Family Law hearings involving children and families including divorce, adoptions, and parenting plans. Learn more about the services we provide to help you through the process.

Domestic Violence Unit - Early Plea Negotiators

Find out more about the early plea processes and contacts in Seattle for the Domestic Violence Unit of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO).

East King County Youth Traffic Court

East King County Youth Traffic Court ("Youth Traffic Court") is a student-led organization that works with King County District Court to help resolve real cases of traffic citations issued to 16- and 17-year-old drivers, offering them an alternative to the traditional justice system. The cases are handled by a “restorative justice circle,” in which all of the Youth Traffic Court team members and all of the teens who received tickets participate.

Education Employment Training (EET) - Juvenile Court Services

Our program for court-involved, youth to achieve educational and employment success. Volunteer to help these youth explore career options.

e-Filing and Case Access Portal Help

You can use the King County District Court (KCDC) e-Filing and Case Access portal to: Search for and view case information for cases filed in KCDC Respond online to citations/tickets Electronically file documents for KCDC cases You must register for a user account. If you are a party to a case, you also will need a "token" to access your case details.

Electronic Exhibits

Case Center is a web-based program that allows exhibits to be electronically transferred and viewed via a cloud. The Case Center exhibit system is currently open to hearings set for trial, where there is an Order of Pre-Trial Conference entered by a judicial official that requires Case Center, or where a communication from the judge or bailiff indicates that Case Center exhibits are required in the case.

Emergency Motions - Ex Parte and Probate

How to apply for and schedule cases needing fast response including restraining orders or when there is an immediate risk for harm.

Ending marriage - Family Law

Ask for a divorce, legal separation, or for an annulment.

Evictions (writs of restitution)

An eviction (Writ of Restitution) involves a tenant being ordered by the court to leave a residence. The court follows the tenant-landlord act of the State of Washington.  More information about these laws can be found at the Revised Code of Washington RCW 59.12, RCW 59.18, and RCW 59.20.

Ex Parte and Probate

Ex Parte and Probate is a special department of Superior Court. We are responsible (by Local Court Rules) for certain short and emergency matters. Learn more about what we do and how we may be able to help you.

Extreme Risk Protection Order

Chapter 7.105 RCW Petitions for Extreme Risk Protection Orders can be filed to stop someone from having firearms. This may be applicable if they are at extreme risk of harming themselves or others. These orders can be requested by an intimate partner, family member, household member or a law enforcement agency.   Extreme Risk Protection Orders do not include restraints to stay away from certain people or places, or to avoid contact.   If you need information for a protection order involving domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, harassment, or to protect a vulnerable adult, visit the Civil Protection Order website.  An order to surrender weapons can be requested with any of these civil protection order types.   Not sure which protection order is right for you? This resource from the Protection Order Advocacy Program of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office may help.  

Family Intervention and Restorative Services (FIRS)

Learn more about Family Intervention and Restorative Services (FIRS) and the FIRS Center.

Family Law Facilitators

If you do not have an attorney, Family Law Facilitators can provide instruction packets to help explain family law process and procedures and guide you through filling out required court forms. Family Law Facilitators can review your completed forms but cannot fill them out for you.

Family Law hearings, settlements, and trials

Depending on the nature of your Family Law case, you may need a hearing, trial, or settlement.

Family Law Orientation

Learn how to sign up for the Family Law Oriention (FLO) online.

Family Treatment Court

Family Treatment Court (FTC) is an alternative to regular Dependency Court for parents who need access to drug and alcohol treatment, judicial monitoring of their sobriety, and individualized services to support the family. It is a "drug court" for families involved in the child welfare system.

Family Treatment Court team resources

Find the calendar, information, training, and documents needed for the Family Treatment Court (FTC) team.

Fees

King County District Court accepts cash, check, money order, or certified check for the payment of most fines, fees and forfeitures. All filing fees are set by Washington state law.

Filing criminal charges

How to file criminal charges before the Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO) can work on your case. Once filed, you cannot drop these charges.

Fire investigation unit

The Fire/Arson Investigation Unit conducts comprehensive fire investigations to determine the origin and cause of fires and performs criminal investigation of those fires determined to be arson. Criminal investigation includes all that is necessary for the identification, apprehension and prosecution of those responsible for committing the crime of arson.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have further questions not addressed here, you're welcome to contact Recruiting via email, phone or text.

Frequently asked questions for online police reporting

Some common questions that people have about online reporting.

Getting your teen help

Learn more about getting help for your family. 

Green River homicides investigation

Help us identify the remaining Green River victims. 

Guardian ad litem registries

A guardian ad litem (GAL) is an adult appointed by the court to represent the best interests of an individual during legal proceedings, including children.

Guardianship

Guardians help those who cannot be legally responsible for themselves.

Hearings - Ex Parte and Probate

Learn more about scheduling and preparing for your hearings in Superior Court.

Hearings - Family Law

You have the option of attending your hearing in person or via Zoom. Follow our directions to schedule your motion and join your virtual hearing.

Hiring process

Our Civil Service hiring process for Communications Specialist and Dispatcher positions involves several steps. Applicants will receive email notifications regarding their status throughout. This process takes approximately 4-6 months to complete.

How to find an attorney

Learn how to get an attorney for your case.

How to find information about a case

Learn how to get information about a criminal case, including the next court date.

How to locate a person in jail

Learn how to find out if an adult is in custody at a King County jail. 

How to modify a No Contact Order

How to drop or change a No Contact Order

How to restore firearm rights

Learn how to see if you are eligible to restore your rights to a firearm after a criminal conviction.

How to schedule a Family Law motion

Learn how to choose a date, get ready for, and what to do before your family law motion hearing. Many of them are currently being held virtually.

How to vacate a criminal conviction

Learn how to check if your criminal conviction can be removed from your record and how to send in a request.

How-to resources for Family Law

Find guidance on processes involving children and families in Family Court including divorce, parenting plans, child support, guardianship, and orders.

Identity theft reporting

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) defines Identity Theft as someone appropriating your personal information to commit fraud or theft. Often, an identity thief steals your Social Security number or other personal identification and uses it to get a credit card or other financial account in your name or to commit another crime.

Investigations

KCSO has experienced and highly trained detectives who can investigate any crime that takes place in our communities.

Involuntary Treatment Act Court - Superior Court

Learn more about Superior Court's civil court for Involuntary Treatment Act cases.

Join your virtual Superior Court Family Law hearing

Domestic Violence Protection Orders and all Family Law motion hearings are now held on Zoom, a free video conferencing tool.

Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center

The Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center (CCFJC) houses Juvenile Court, Juvenile Detention, and a variety of related programs.

Judges - District Court

Learn which Judges are assigned to our various courthouses, and read their biographies.

Judges who perform weddings - District Court

Learn how to schedule a wedding ceremony with a District Court judge.

Juror safety during COVID-19 - Superior Court

How we are taking steps to keep you safe to join a jury during COVID-19.

Jury Duty Exemptions - Superior Court

You must be able to prove that serving on a jury would cause you undue hardship to be exempted or dismissed from service.

Jury duty notices

How to know if your jury summons is from District or Superior Court.

Jury selection - Superior Court

Learn more on the juror selection process and how to do so remotely.

Juvenile Court internships

Apply to be part of the next generation of court leaders and youth workers.

Juvenile Court Services

Youth are different than adults, which is why there is a separate court for them. Judges balance community safety with the needs of youth and their families. We want to help youth build skills and have the support so they don't return to the legal system.

Juvenile Detention Intake Criteria

Learn more about the reasons youth can be held in Juvenile Detention.

Juvenile Justice Assessment Team (JJAT)

A team devoted to working with youth in the court system to assess how we can best help with their mental health or substance abuse needs.

K-9 units

The K-9 Units are an integral part of police response. The Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit includes 8 handler and K-9 teams.  There are no cross trained teams.  In addition to performing drug searches, they also can provide backup to deputies, locate suspects and victims, and find evidence at or near crime scenes.

KCSO North Precinct 2 - Sammamish

Precinct 2 covers a geographical area of approximately 747 square miles. The Precinct is responsible for law enforcement in all unincorporated areas and four contract cities north of Interstate 90 to Snohomish County, and the east to Snoqualmie Pass. 

KCSO Southwest Precinct 4 - Burien and SeaTac 

Precinct 4 is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of: West Hill (Skyway), North Highline (White Center & Boulevard Park) and Vashon Island. Precinct 4 also includes the contract cities of Burien and SeaTac. The northern boundary is the City of Seattle, while Normandy Park, Des Moines and Federal Way form the southwestern boundary. Renton, Tukwila, Kent and Auburn make up the southeastern boundary. The southern boundary extends to the Pierce County line.

King County Courthouse

Learn more about the the King County Courthouse , a full-service court facility serving north and east King County.

King County District Court

King County District Court's 25 elected judges hear a range of civil and criminal cases at 10 locations throughout the County.

King County District Court locations

Find the contact and address for our District Court courthouse locations throughout King County.

Legal Financial Obligations

Paying Court Costs, Fees, Fines and Restitution

Major Accident Response and Reconstruction (MARR)

The King County Sheriff’s Office Major Accident Response and Reconstruction (MARR) Unit is responsible for responding to all fatal and critical injury collisions in our jurisdiction. The unit also investigates felony hit and run collisions and assists the Major Crimes Unit in diagramming crime scenes. Upon request the unit is available to assist other agencies with these specialized skills.

Major Crimes Unit

The King County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit is responsible for investigating crimes such as homicide, robbery, and felony assault. They also are responsible for investigating tips regarding “cold” homicide and missing persons cases.

Maleng Regional Justice Center

Learn about the Maleng Regional Justice Center (MRJC), a full-service court facility serving south King County.

Marine Rescue Dive Unit

The King County Sheriff’s Office Marine Rescue Dive Unit (MRDU) deploys specially trained and equipped Deputies that are responsible for water-related law enforcement, investigations, rescue and recovery work.

Media contacts and resources – Adult and Juvenile Detention

Learn where to send media inquiries for the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) and other frequently requested information.

Mentoring

Mentors are people who want to make a positive difference in a young person's life. Volunteer to help youth.

Minor Guardianship

How to apply to become the guardian of a minor temporarily or until they become adults.

Minor guardianship - Family Law

How to create, contest, or respond to minor guardianships for those under 18-years-old.

Minor settlement forms

Forms from the Ex Parte Department for settlement cases involving those under 18 years old.

Missing persons and runaways

The Major Crimes Unit analyzes all missing persons and runaway reports. If the Office reviewer suspects any foul play, the case is immediately assigned to a Major Crimes detective. The missing person's unit can be reached at 206-263-2080.

Motions and orders - Family Law

Filing a general Family Law Motion, a motion in front of a judge, default, and dismissing a case. 

Motions and orders - Family Law

How to ask for a temporary order or restraining order and steps to challenge or enforce an order.

Narcotics activity reporting

Information to assist you with online reporting of illegal drug activity.

News and media resources

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) strives for transparency and aims to respond to all media inquiries in a timely manner. 

Non-emergency numbers for other King County Police agencies

The following are non-emergency phone numbers for Police Agencies around King County and a list of cities or organizations they serve.

Non-uniformed personnel jobs - Adult and Juvenile Detention

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) contributes to the public safety of the people of King County and Washington state by operating safe, secure, and humane detention facilities and community corrections programs.

Nuisance phone call reporting

Welcome to the King County Sheriff's Office Online Reporting System. You will be able to print your after it is approved and you receive a copy by email.

Online reporting

Welcome to the King County Sheriff's Office Online Reporting System. You will be able to report your incident without waiting and be able to print a copy after the report is approved.

Original CPL

Only apply for an original CPL if you have never had one OR your previous CPL has been expired more than 90 days.

Parenting plans and child support - Family Law

How to create and respond to parenting plan and child support requests.

Parents Supporting Parents program

Learn more about the Superior Court Dependency Court program devoted to connecting parents who have navigated the system before with those who are new to the system.

Participant rules and expectations – Family Treatment Court

Learn more about being a participant in the Family Treatment Court (FTC) Program, including graduation requirements.

Police partnerships

Sharing resources, expertise and cost, for smart use of taxpayer dollars.

Police services in your community

Learn more about which precinct covers your geographic area. 

Population information - Adult and Juvenile Detention

Find reports and data about who is in custody in King County jails, detention centers, and alternative programs.

Post-conviction assistance

Learn how Washington State law gives people with criminal convictions ways to start over and clean up their record.

Probation services

Learn what probation is and how it works.

Procedures - Ex Parte and Probate

All current ways to finalize Family Law matters, adoptions, guardianships, trusts, and probates through Ex Parte.

Programs & services - Juvenile Court

Resources that help youth and families reach their goals in partnership with our community.

Programs and services for adults in jail

King County offers and supports programs and services for adults while they are in jail. Support is also available after release from detention.

Programs and services for youth in detention

Learn about the programs and services that are offered to youth who are in detention.

Programs and services in jail and juvenile detention

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) aims to help youth and adults in the criminal justice system become healthy, productive members of the community. We provide a variety of programs and services for those in detention and after release.

Qualifications

Traits we look for in our candidates.

Records requests

Learn how you can request these types of District Court records:

Records requests

The King County Sheriff's Office is committed to providing you records in a timely manner.   KCSO Legal Unit responds to Subpoena Duces Tecum Requests, Discovery Requests, King County Risk Management Claims, Office of the Ombuds Requests, and Inquest Program Requests. KCSO Public Disclosure Unit responds to records requests under RCW 42.56, The Public Records Act.  KCSO Records Unit responds to LEA, Insurance and Government Agencies.

Regional Mental Health Court (RMHC)

Learn what makes King County Regional Mental Health Court (RMHC) unique and how the program works.

Regional Veterans Court (RVC)

Learn what makes King County Regional Veterans Court (RVC) unique and how the program works.

Register for the parent seminar

The What about the Children seminar shares how parental conflict affects children. Parents with children are required to attend this seminar for many court processes.

Relocate with children - Family Law

Steps for an Invent to Move with the Children, or object to a move, under the Relocation statute.

Renew/Replace CPL

Learn more about applying to renew or replace a valid a Concealed Pistol License (CPL)

Report examples

The following are examples of when you should call the Sheriff’s Office to file your report and when you may file your report online.

Report sexual abuse, assault, or harassment

How to report incidents of sexual assault or harassment in King County jails and detention centers.

Reports and audits - Adult and Juvenile Detention 

Find annual DAJD reports required under the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and Unexpected Fatality Reports on in-custody deaths at King County jails. 

Request records - Adult and Juvenile Detention

How to request public records from King County's Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention.

Request to be notified before release of firearms to a family member

The King County Sheriff’s Office may obtain guns from people for several reasons, such as when a court orders the person to surrender them, or the person is suicidal, or at the scene of a domestic violence incident. The Sheriff’s Office may eventually have to return the gun to the person.  In 2015, the state legislature passed a law that allows “Family or household members” to ask the Sheriff’s Office to notify them before the Sheriff’s Office returns a firearm.

Resources

KCSO cannot provide legal advice. This page is for informational purposes only and highlights local, state, and national immigration resources centered on serving immigrants, refugees, and victims of crime. The information below includes but is not limited to legal and social service providers, government and community programs, Know Your Rights information, as well as training and technical assistance support.

Respond to citation/ticket

Learn more about your options for paying, setting up a payment plan, mitigating, or contesting your traffic infraction, also called a citation or ticket.

Respond to your jury summons - Superior Court

What to do after receiving a King County Superior Court jury summons.

River hazards

River users should be aware that King County rivers contain both natural and installed large wood. River hazards, such as new channels or newly fallen trees spanning the river’s main channel can happen at any time. Users on a river must always be on high alert and ready react to river hazards.

Sales of real and personal property

The King County Sheriff's Office is transitioning to online auctions for real property sales. Please visit the new website to register with an account and get familiar with the process.

Search and rescue

The King County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for search and rescue activities in King County under the mandates of RCW 38.52.

Send money to an adult in jail

How to send money to an adult in a King County detention facility.

Senior management team - Adult and Juvenile Detention

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) provides essential public safety services for King County and the state of Washington. The department operates adult jails in Seattle and Kent, as well as a secure youth detention facility in Seattle. DAJD also oversees community-based programs that offer alternatives to secure detention.

Sentence Review process

Learn more about who is eligible to apply for sentence review or early release and how to apply.

Serve documents - Family Law

Properly serve, or give, the other party documents for your court case by delivery, mail, or publication.

Serving documents

The Civil Process Unit accepts legal documents for service; however, it must prioritize the resources of its Civil Unit to facilitate service of orders and petitions that require the assistance of commissioned law enforcement personnel. Other court documents not requiring the assistance of commissioned personnel for the Sheriff’s Office such as Small Claims, Notices, Summons, Civil Complaints, Petitions, Declarations, Civil Subpoenas, Orders to Show Cause, Writs of Garnishment etc., will not be accepted for service at this time except under the following circumstances: Service on a person currently booked into a correctional facility within King County Articulated Hazard or safety concerns supported by evidence or court ruling, provided with documents presented for service. Documents issued in another state and the documents reflect that the issuing court requires service by law enforcement. All authority requiring law enforcement personnel to serve, should be clearly identified on the information on the cover sheet. If you need assistance to serve documents that we cannot accept, please seek service through a private process server or anyone over the age of 18 not a party to the action. For a list of process servers in your area you may visit National Association of Professional Process Servers | NAPPS. The number of attempts made is determined by how much time we have to serve and our ability to locate the person(s) you wish to have served. Our office typically does not serve in the evenings or on weekends and we require payment of our fees in advance.   

Settlement conferences

If your case requires mediation, a settlement conference, or an outside mediation/dispute resolution option can fulfill this requirement. Our Settlement Conference Program helps low-income families resolve cases without a trial. 

Sex offender registration

This page contains information regarding the sex offender registration process. Registration takes approximately 30 minutes. At this time, you will be fingerprinted and photographed. Please note, wait times may vary depending on the volume of requests for Records Unit Services.

Sexual Assault Unit / Special Assault Unit

The King County Sheriff’s Office Special Assault Unit is responsible for investigating sexual assaults involving children and adults, child abuse, vulnerable adult abuse, and internet crimes against children (ICAC).  The mission statement of SAU is “Justice for victims through compassionate, professional investigations."

Sheriff services

King County Sheriff’s Office Police Precincts and Contract City Partnership services offered.

Small claims - District Court

Learn more about filing for small claims in District Court.

Special operations

Deputies and detectives often need the support of specialized units to ensure their safety and the safety of the residents they serve.  Specialized units include TAC30 (formerly known as SWAT), hostage negotiation, bomb disposal, and more.  The need for these services has increased in the past few years due to threats of terrorism.

State v. Blake

The Department of Judicial Administration, also known as the Superior Court Clerk’s Office, is processing orders to vacate drug possession convictions.

Step-Up Program

Learn more about how Step-Up addresses youth violence toward family members by building respectful relationships.

Step-Up Program curriculum

Learn more about the Step-Up Program coursework and download manuals or workbooks for your organization. 

Superior Court calendars and schedules

Family Law motions, ex parte and probate, criminal, and civil calendars for King County Superior Court.

Superior Court Clerk's Office

Department of Judicial Administration The county clerk is an official who maintains the official records of superior court cases, oversees all record-keeping pertaining to those court cases, and administers justice system programs. In King County, the county clerk also has the title of Director of the Department of Judicial Administration, an executive branch department.

Superior Court Daily Calendar

The current morning or afternoon schedule for King County Superior Court judges. Current commissioners and pro tempore staff also listed.

Superior Court Interpreter Services

From Afghani to Zulu, Superior Court's Office of Interpreter Services has interpreters for more than 160 different languages to assist non-English speakers with court matters. Interpretation services are provided at no cost for all court events.

Superior Court Jury Duty

You may be asked to serve on a jury for a criminal or civil case in King County Superior Court. Learn more about the process and what to expect during your time serving as a juror.

Superior Court locations

Find services and offices for King County Superior Court at these locations. 

Superior Court schedules by location

Calendars for the Clark Children and Family Justice Center and King County Courthouse in Seattle, and Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent.

Support for families experiencing violence

Learn more about the Step-Up Program, Family Intervention and Restorative Services (FIRS), and At-Risk Youth services.

Suspicious activity reporting

Preventing terrorism and crime in general is a community effort.  The Sheriff's Office cannot do this alone and needs everyone's help.  By learning what to look for, you can make a positive contribution towards making our community a safer place to live.  The partnership between the community and the Sheriff's Office is essential to the success of these efforts.

TAC30

The TAC30 Unit (SWAT) is a team that is trained in the use of special weapons, equipment and tactics necessary to contain, control and arrest suspects or individuals under circumstances that standard patrol deputies are ill-equipped to resolve without extreme personal hazards. 

Team KCSO 9-1-1

Meet some of our amazing team members!

The Justice Bobbe J. Bridge Resource Center

The Bobbe J. Bridge Resource Center helps ensure youth and families have access to information, programs, and opportunities that support their needs and goals.

Therapeutic Courts and Collaborative Programs

King County has programs and courts that focus on helping those with specific needs. The Prosecuting Attorney's Office (PAO) focuses on send eligible cases to these programs rather than through the traditional court system.

Therapeutic Response Unit

TRU mental health professionals are partnered with KCSO deputies to co-respond to calls for service to provide de-escalation, crisis intervention and social service referrals. 

Towed/impounded vehicles

Learn how to request a court hearing to contest a vehicle tow or impound.

Traffic complaint reporting

Welcome to the King County Sheriff's Office Online Reporting System. You will be able to report your incident without waiting and be able to print a copy of the approved report.

Trespass letters

If you need to write a Trespass Letter, we have provided a template for you to use. 

Trials - Family Law

A Family Law trial is about divorce, legal separation, parenting plans, relocation, or child support. The two types of trials are called an Informal Family Law Trial (IFLT) and a Traditional Trial.

Truancy

Learn more about the truancy process when children between the ages of 8 and 18 are too often absent from school.

Truancy and at-risk youth programs

Learn more about the processes and services available to children and their families for needed services and support.   In 1993, a 13-year-old runaway named Rebecca Hedman ("Becca") was murdered in Spokane, Washington, far from her home in Tacoma. A group of parents and legislators came together and successfully pushed for legislation (passed in 1995) that was designed to prevent situations like Becca's from happening again. The Becca Bill addresses several areas of public policy, including those affecting truant, at-risk, and runaway youth. King County Superior Court operates and manages three programs -- At-Risk Youth, Child in Need of Services, and Truancy -- as part of its obligation to provide court services under the Becca Bill. These programs are designed to support families and school districts and to help them meet their statutory and court-ordered obligations when filing Becca petitions.     Please visit the following program webpages for more information:    

Truancy cases

How truancy petitions are filed, how to follow the case, and get needed forms.

U Visa / T Visa intake forms

Fill out the intake form or call or email the U Visa / T Visa Program to request assistance with submitting you or your client's certification request.

U Visa and T Visa informational brochure

Information brochure is available in multiple languages.

Unified Payment Program - King County District Court and participating municipal courts

Is your driver’s license suspended due to multiple traffic tickets? If you have received tickets in any of the courts listed on this page, they allow you to participate in a consolidated payment plan called the "Unified Payment Program."

Victim notification

Learn how to access and use notifications from Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE) and Electronic Home Monitoring victim notification alerts.

What is the Dependency Court process?

Learn more about the processes of Dependency Court, your rights and your responsibilities.

Why you were chosen for jury duty

Learn more about the process and outcomes of receiving a jury duty summons.

Working with the Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) offers rewarding careers with competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for advancement.

Youth detention

Learn about the Judge Patricia H. Clark Children and Family Justice Center. This is where we house youth who are in detention.

Youth skills training and family interventions

Evidence-based programs that help court-involved youth and families build skills, work through challenges, and get therapeutic support. A Juvenile Probation Counselor (JPC) decides if these programs are a good fit.

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