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Spokane County Divorce Records

What Are Spokane County Divorce Records?

Spokane County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the county court system that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are created and maintained pursuant to the Washington State Revised Code § 26.09.030, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in the state. Divorce records in Spokane County consist of all documents filed with the Superior Court during divorce proceedings, including petitions, responses, financial declarations, parenting plans, and final decrees.

The Spokane County Clerk's Office serves as the official custodian of these records. Divorce records serve multiple important functions:

  • Legal proof of marital status change
  • Documentation required for remarriage
  • Evidence for name change processes
  • Verification for Social Security benefits
  • Supporting documentation for loan applications
  • Required evidence for immigration matters
  • Historical and genealogical research

Under Washington State law, divorce is legally referred to as "dissolution of marriage." The complete case file contains all pleadings, orders, and judgments entered in the dissolution proceeding. These records document the legal termination of marital rights and responsibilities, including property division, child custody arrangements, and support obligations as determined by the court.

Are Spokane County Divorce Records Public?

Spokane County divorce records maintain a dual status regarding public accessibility. Pursuant to the Washington Public Records Act § 42.56, most court records, including divorce proceedings, are considered public records. However, access restrictions apply to certain components of these records.

Court divorce case files are generally available for public inspection with notable exceptions:

  • Financial declarations and sealed exhibits
  • Records containing Social Security numbers
  • Records with children's birthdates
  • Cases involving domestic violence where protective orders exist
  • Matters specifically sealed by court order

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce decree, have restricted access. According to Washington State Department of Health regulations, only the following individuals may obtain certified copies:

  • Parties to the divorce
  • Legal representatives with proper authorization
  • Individuals with court orders authorizing access
  • Government agencies conducting official business

Members of the public seeking divorce record information may access:

  • Basic case information through the Spokane County Superior Court's public index
  • Non-confidential court documents through the Clerk's Office
  • Historical divorce records through the Washington State Archives

The Washington State Court Rules on Public Access (GR 31) establish that while court records are presumptively open to public inspection, this access must be balanced against privacy concerns and safety considerations in sensitive cases.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Spokane County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Spokane County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary access points include:

  1. Visit the Spokane County Clerk's Office in person:

Spokane County Clerk's Office
1116 W. Broadway Avenue
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-2211
Spokane County Clerk

Public counter hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

  1. Submit a written records request:

    • Complete the Court Records Request Form
    • Include case number if known (if unknown, provide names of parties and approximate date of divorce)
    • Submit the form via email, mail, or in person
    • Pay applicable fees ($0.50 per page for copies, $5.00 for certification)

  2. Request certified divorce certificates from the Washington State Department of Health:

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

  1. For divorces finalized before 2000, contact:

Washington State Archives Eastern Regional Branch
960 Washington Street
Cheney, WA 99004
(509) 235-7508
Washington State Archives

When requesting records, individuals must provide sufficient identifying information, including names of both parties, case number (if known), and approximate date of divorce. Proper identification is required when requesting records in person, and notarized authorization may be necessary for third-party requests.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Spokane County Online?

Spokane County provides several digital resources for accessing divorce records online. The following electronic systems are currently available to the public:

  1. Spokane County Superior Court Records Portal:

    • Visit the Spokane County Court Records Search
    • Select "Superior Court Records Search"
    • Search by party name, case number, or attorney
    • Access case summaries, docket information, and hearing schedules
    • Note: Full document images are not available through this system

  2. Washington Courts JIS-Link (for legal professionals):

    • Subscription-based service for attorneys and authorized users
    • Provides comprehensive case information across Washington courts
    • Requires registration and approval
    • Visit Washington Courts for registration information

  3. Washington State Digital Archives:

    • Access to historical divorce records (generally pre-2000)
    • Visit Washington State Digital Archives
    • Search by name, county, and date range
    • Some records include digitized images of original documents

  4. Odyssey Portal (for newer cases):

    • Access to case information filed after system implementation
    • Register for an account at Washington Courts Odyssey Portal
    • Search by case number or party name
    • View case status, scheduled hearings, and parties involved

When using online systems, users should note that:

  • Complete divorce file contents are not available online
  • Confidential information is redacted from viewable records
  • Certified copies cannot be obtained through online systems
  • Fees may apply for certain searches or document access
  • Technical assistance is available by contacting the Clerk's Office

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Spokane County?

Spokane County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information without payment through several no-cost options:

  1. Public Access Terminals at the Courthouse:

Spokane County Superior Court
1116 W. Broadway Avenue
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-2211
Spokane County Superior Court

  • Available during regular business hours
  • No fee for searching case information
  • Self-service terminals provide access to case summaries
  • Printing fees apply ($0.50 per page)

  1. Online Case Search System:

    • The Spokane County Court Records Search provides free access to basic case information
    • Search by party name or case number
    • View case type, filing date, and party information
    • Document images not available through free search

  2. Washington State Digital Archives:

  3. Public Libraries:

    • Many Spokane County libraries offer free internet access
    • Library staff may assist with navigating public records websites
    • Some libraries maintain microfilm archives of local newspapers with legal notices

While basic case information is available at no cost, fees apply for:

  • Copies of court documents ($0.50 per page)
  • Certified copies ($5.00 per document)
  • Research assistance from clerk staff ($30.00 per hour after first hour)
  • Expedited processing

Pursuant to Washington Court Rule GR 31.1, certain administrative records related to court operations may also be available without charge upon proper request.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Spokane County

Divorce records in Spokane County contain comprehensive documentation of the dissolution process. A complete divorce file typically includes the following components:

  1. Initial Pleadings:

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Confidential Information Form (not publicly accessible)
    • Vital Statistics Form

  2. Financial Documentation:

    • Financial Declarations (sealed from public view)
    • Property and Debt Listing
    • Income Verification (pay stubs, tax returns)
    • Pension and Retirement Account Information

  3. Child-Related Documents (if applicable):

    • Parenting Plan
    • Child Support Worksheets
    • Child Support Order
    • Residential Schedule

  4. Procedural Documents:

    • Proof of Service
    • Response to Petition
    • Notice of Hearing
    • Court Orders
    • Temporary Orders

  5. Final Documents:

    • Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law
    • Final Decree of Dissolution
    • Property Division Order
    • Name Change Order (if applicable)

  6. Additional Documents (case-specific):

    • Domestic Violence Protection Orders
    • Guardian ad Litem Reports
    • Mediation Agreements
    • Trial Exhibits
    • Transcripts of Proceedings

The Spokane County Clerk's Office maintains these records in accordance with Washington State retention schedules. Certain sensitive information is redacted or sealed from public view pursuant to court rules and state statutes, including Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and children's identifying information.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Spokane County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Spokane County have several options for obtaining certified documentation. The following methods are currently available:

  1. Certified Copy of Divorce Decree from Spokane County Clerk:

Spokane County Clerk's Office
1116 W. Broadway Avenue
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-2211
Spokane County Clerk

  • Submit a written request specifying the case number
  • If case number is unknown, provide names of both parties and approximate date
  • Present valid government-issued photo identification
  • Pay the certification fee ($5.00 per document plus $0.50 per page)
  • Allow 1-3 business days for processing
  1. Certificate of Divorce from Washington State Department of Health:

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

  • Complete the official certificate request form
  • Provide required identification documentation
  • Pay the current certificate fee ($25.00 per certificate)
  • Allow 2-3 weeks for processing by mail

  1. Exemplified Copies for International Use:

    • For use in foreign countries, request an exemplified copy
    • Requires additional authentication steps
    • Higher fees apply ($30.00 for exemplification)
    • Contact the Clerk's Office directly for specific requirements

  2. Third-Party Requests:

    • Attorneys may request with proper authorization
    • Other third parties must provide notarized authorization
    • Government agencies may request with official letterhead

Pursuant to Washington Administrative Code § 246-491-029, certified divorce certificates from the Department of Health are restricted to qualified applicants, while court documents may be available to the general public with proper identification.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Spokane County?

While divorce proceedings in Spokane County are generally matters of public record, Washington State law provides several mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality in certain circumstances. The following provisions may apply:

  1. Sealing Court Records:

    • Pursuant to Washington Court Rule GR 15, parties may petition the court to seal specific documents or entire case files
    • The court applies a compelling privacy or safety interest standard
    • Requires demonstration that privacy interests outweigh public interest in access
    • Judge must make specific findings to justify sealing

  2. Automatically Sealed Documents:

    • Financial declarations and attachments
    • Medical and mental health records
    • Confidential reports from guardians ad litem
    • Records containing children's birthdates and Social Security numbers
    • Sealed exhibits from trials or hearings

  3. Confidential Name Change:

    • Available in cases involving domestic violence
    • Requires court order under RCW 4.24.130
    • Protects new identity from public disclosure

  4. Domestic Violence Protection:

    • Address confidentiality program available through Secretary of State
    • Restricted access to residential information
    • Special handling of court documents to protect location

  5. Alternative Dispute Resolution:

    • Mediation proceedings are confidential
    • Settlement negotiations generally not admissible in court
    • Private arbitration offers more confidentiality than court proceedings

Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel regarding available options. The court balances privacy concerns against the presumption of openness in judicial proceedings. Complete confidentiality is rarely granted except in extraordinary circumstances involving safety risks or highly sensitive information.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Spokane County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Spokane County varies significantly based on several factors. The Washington State mandatory waiting period established by RCW 26.09.030 requires at least 90 days between the date of filing and the final decree, regardless of circumstances. Beyond this minimum timeframe, the following factors influence duration:

  1. Uncontested Divorces:

    • Minimum: 90 days from filing
    • Typical range: 3-5 months
    • Factors affecting timeline:
      • Court calendar congestion
      • Completeness of initial paperwork
      • Availability of both parties for signing
      • Judicial review timeframes

  2. Contested Divorces:

    • Minimum: 6 months
    • Typical range: 9-18 months
    • Complex cases: 18-24+ months
    • Factors affecting timeline:
      • Property valuation complexities
      • Child custody disputes
      • Business ownership interests
      • Pension and retirement division
      • Trial scheduling availability

  3. Alternative Resolution Methods:

    • Mediation: Can reduce timeline by 3-6 months
    • Collaborative divorce: Typically 4-8 months total
    • Settlement conferences: May resolve issues without trial

According to the Spokane County Superior Court, approximately 70% of divorce cases reach resolution without trial. The court encourages alternative dispute resolution to reduce both time and emotional costs associated with litigation.

Current processing statistics indicate:

  • Average time to finalize uncontested divorces: 4 months
  • Average time to trial for contested matters: 12 months
  • Temporary orders typically issued within 2-4 weeks of request
  • Default judgments processed within 2-3 weeks of eligibility

Court calendar congestion, attorney scheduling, and complexity of issues significantly impact these timeframes. Parties seeking expedited processing should consult with legal counsel regarding available options.

How Long Does Spokane County Keep Divorce Records?

Spokane County maintains divorce records according to Washington State's records retention schedule. The retention periods vary based on record type and historical significance:

  1. Superior Court Case Files:

    • Permanent retention for cases filed before 1940
    • Cases filed after 1940: retained for 15 years after case closure
    • After retention period, transferred to Washington State Archives
    • Historically significant cases may be permanently preserved

  2. Judgment and Decree Records:

    • Permanent retention
    • Maintained in bound volumes or electronic format
    • Available through Clerk's Office indefinitely
    • Microfilm/digital backup maintained for preservation

  3. Indexes to Divorce Proceedings:

    • Permanent retention
    • Searchable by party name and case number
    • Maintained for historical and reference purposes

  4. Financial Records and Exhibits:

    • Retained for 6 years after case closure
    • May be destroyed after retention period
    • Parties may request return of exhibits after case finalization

  5. Certificates of Divorce:

    • Maintained by Washington State Department of Health
    • Permanent retention
    • Available through vital records request process

The Washington State Archives Eastern Regional Branch maintains historical Spokane County divorce records that have exceeded local retention periods. These records remain accessible to the public through the archives' research facilities.

Pursuant to Washington Administrative Code § 434-663, electronic records must be maintained with the same retention requirements as paper records. The Spokane County Clerk's Office has implemented digital preservation strategies to ensure long-term access to court records regardless of format.

How To Get a Divorce In Spokane County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Spokane County must follow specific procedures established by Washington State law. The process includes:

  1. Establish Eligibility:

    • Either spouse must be a Washington State resident
    • No minimum residency period required
    • File in county where either spouse resides

  2. Initiate Proceedings:

    • Obtain necessary forms from the Spokane County Superior Court
    • Complete Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • File forms with Clerk's Office and pay filing fee ($314.00)
    • Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals

  3. Serve Documents:

    • Serve copies to spouse via:
      • Personal service by non-party adult
      • Acceptance of service (spouse signs acknowledgment)
      • Alternative service by court order if spouse cannot be located
    • File proof of service with court

  4. Resolution Pathways:

    • Uncontested: Spouse agrees to all terms
      • Submit agreed final documents after 90-day waiting period
      • Judge reviews and signs if appropriate
    • Contested: Disagreement on terms
      • Temporary orders hearing may be scheduled
      • Mandatory mediation for parenting issues
      • Settlement conference with judge
      • Trial if issues remain unresolved

  5. Finalization:

    • Submit final documents for judicial review
    • Judge signs Findings of Fact and Decree of Dissolution
    • Clerk processes and files signed orders
    • Certified copies available for $5.00 each

Resources available to assist with the process include:

Spokane County Superior Court Facilitator
1116 W. Broadway Avenue, 3rd Floor
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-5790
Family Law Facilitator

Northwest Justice Project
1702 W. Broadway Avenue
Spokane, WA 99201
(888) 201-1014
Northwest Justice Project

Self-represented litigants may utilize the Washington State Courts' Washington Law Help website for forms and guidance.

How To Get Divorce Papers In Spokane County

Individuals seeking divorce documentation in Spokane County have several options for obtaining the necessary forms and paperwork:

  1. Spokane County Superior Court Clerk's Office:

Spokane County Clerk's Office
1116 W. Broadway Avenue
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-2211
Spokane County Clerk

  • Visit during business hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-12:00 PM and 1:00 PM-4:00 PM
  • Purchase paper forms packets ($20-30 depending on complexity)
  • Staff cannot provide legal advice but can explain filing procedures
  1. Family Law Facilitator's Office:

Family Law Facilitator
1116 W. Broadway Avenue, 3rd Floor
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-5790
Family Law Facilitator

  • Appointment required (schedule online or by phone)
  • Provides form review and procedural guidance
  • Sliding scale fee ($20-30 per session)

  1. Online Resources:

  2. Law Library:

Spokane County Law Library
1116 W. Broadway Avenue, 5th Floor
Spokane, WA 99260
(509) 477-3909
Spokane County Law Library

  • Reference assistance available
  • Access to legal research materials
  • Self-help books and guides
  • Public computers for form completion
  1. Legal Aid Organizations:

CLEAR (Coordinated Legal Education, Advice and Referral)
Toll-free: (888) 201-1014
Northwest Justice Project

  • Free legal assistance for qualifying low-income individuals
  • Phone intake and referral system
  • Limited representation may be available

Required forms vary based on circumstances but typically include:

  • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
  • Summons
  • Confidential Information Form
  • Financial Declaration (if property/debts/children involved)
  • Parenting Plan (if children involved)
  • Child Support Worksheets (if children involved)

Lookup Divorce Records in Spokane County

Court Records | Spokane County, WA

Clerk's Records | Spokane County, WA

Dissolution of Marriage | Spokane County, WA

Ordering a Marriage or Divorce Record | Washington State Department of Health

Records Requests | Spokane County, WA

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