logo
PierceRecords.us
Search Public Records
Pierce Public Records /Pierce County Divorce Records

Pierce County Divorce Records

What Are Pierce County Divorce Records?

Pierce County divorce records are official legal documents maintained by the Pierce County Superior Court that document the dissolution of marriage within the county's jurisdiction. These records are created and maintained pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) § 26.09.030, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in Washington State. Divorce records constitute a comprehensive documentation of the legal process through which a marriage is terminated by court order.

Divorce records in Pierce County typically include:

  • Petition for dissolution of marriage
  • Summons
  • Response to petition
  • Parenting plans (if children are involved)
  • Child support worksheets and orders
  • Financial declarations
  • Property division agreements
  • Final divorce decree or judgment

These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and governmental entities. Members of the public may require divorce records for:

  • Legal proof of marital status change
  • Documentation for remarriage
  • Evidence for name change processes
  • Verification for Social Security benefits
  • Supporting documentation for loan applications
  • Evidence for immigration matters
  • Genealogical research

The Pierce County Superior Court maintains these records as part of its official court functions and responsibilities.

Are Pierce County Divorce Records Public?

Pierce County divorce records have a nuanced public access status governed by the Washington Public Records Act, RCW § 42.56 and family law statutes. The accessibility of divorce records follows a two-tier system:

Court divorce case files are generally considered public records and may be accessed by any member of the public, with certain important exceptions. The following components of divorce proceedings may be restricted from public view:

  • Records containing sensitive personal information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and dates of birth
  • Records sealed by court order due to privacy concerns or safety issues
  • Records involving minor children where disclosure would not serve the best interests of the child
  • Records containing allegations of domestic violence where disclosure could endanger a party

Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. Pursuant to RCW § 70.58A.530, these certificates are available only to:

  • The individuals named in the record
  • Immediate family members
  • Legal representatives of the parties
  • Individuals who can demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record

The Washington State Department of Health maintains certified divorce certificates, while the Pierce County Superior Court maintains the complete divorce case files.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Pierce County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Pierce County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific type of divorce record needed and the requester's relationship to the parties involved.

For divorce case files maintained by the Pierce County Superior Court:

  1. Visit the Pierce County Clerk's Office in person to request access to divorce records.

Pierce County Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Clerk

  1. Complete a records request form, providing the names of the parties and approximate date of divorce.
  2. Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $0.50 per page for copies).
  3. For records older than five years, requesters may need to contact the Washington State Archives, Puget Sound Regional Branch.

Washington State Archives - Puget Sound Regional Branch
3000 Landerholm Circle SE, MS-N100
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 564-3940
Washington State Archives

For certified divorce certificates:

  1. Submit a request to the Washington State Department of Health, Center for Health Statistics.
  2. Complete the official vital records request form.
  3. Provide proof of identity and establish eligibility to receive the record.
  4. Pay the required fee (currently $25 per certificate).

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 9709
Olympia, WA 98507
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Pierce County Online?

Pierce County provides digital access to certain divorce records through its online systems. The availability of records online streamlines the research process for eligible individuals seeking divorce documentation.

To search for divorce records online:

  1. Access the Pierce County Superior Court LINX (Legal Information Network Exchange) system, which serves as the county's primary online court records database.
  2. Create a user account if you do not already have one.
  3. Select "Case Records" from the search options.
  4. Choose "Domestic" or "Family Law" as the case type.
  5. Enter search criteria such as party names, case number, or date range.
  6. Review the search results, which will display basic case information including:
    • Case number
    • Filing date
    • Party names
    • Case type
    • Current status
    • Scheduled hearings

For certified divorce certificates, online requests may be submitted through the Washington State Department of Health's vital records portal. Users must:

  1. Create an account on the secure portal.
  2. Complete the online application form.
  3. Provide required identification documentation.
  4. Pay the certificate fee electronically.
  5. Choose delivery method (mail or expedited shipping).

It is important to note that while basic case information is available online, complete divorce files with all associated documents typically require in-person inspection or specific document requests.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Pierce County?

Pierce County residents and other interested parties may access certain divorce record information without payment, though comprehensive access typically involves nominal fees. The following methods provide free or low-cost access to divorce record information:

  1. Use public access terminals at the Pierce County Superior Court Clerk's Office. These terminals allow free searching of the court's database for basic case information.

Pierce County Superior Court Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Superior Court

  1. Visit the Pierce County Law Library, which provides public access to legal research tools and assistance with locating court records.

Pierce County Law Library
County-City Building
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 100
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-3250
Pierce County Law Library

  1. Access the Washington Courts Search Case Records portal, which provides free basic case information for courts throughout Washington State, including Pierce County.

  2. Review the Washington Digital Archives, which contains some historical divorce records that have been digitized and are available for free public access.

While searching for basic case information is generally free, obtaining copies of actual documents typically involves fees:

  • In-person viewing of non-confidential records is free
  • Printed copies cost $0.50 per page
  • Certified copies of specific documents cost $5.00 per document
  • Research assistance by clerk staff may involve hourly fees for extensive searches

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Pierce County

Divorce records in Pierce County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the entire legal process of marriage dissolution. Pursuant to RCW § 26.09.020, these records must contain specific elements to be considered complete and valid.

A complete divorce file typically contains:

  1. Initial Filings:

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Confidential Information Form
    • Vital Statistics Form

  2. Service Documentation:

    • Proof of Service
    • Acceptance of Service (if applicable)
    • Publication notices (if service by publication was required)

  3. Response Documents:

    • Response to Petition
    • Counter-Petitions (if filed)

  4. Financial Disclosures:

    • Financial Declaration Forms
    • Asset and Liability Schedules
    • Income Verification (pay stubs, tax returns)
    • Property Valuations

  5. Child-Related Documents (if applicable):

    • Parenting Plan
    • Child Support Worksheets
    • Child Support Orders
    • Residential Schedules

  6. Temporary Orders:

    • Temporary Support Orders
    • Temporary Custody Arrangements
    • Restraining Orders (if applicable)

  7. Settlement Documents:

    • Property Settlement Agreements
    • Separation Contracts
    • Mediation Agreements

  8. Final Documents:

    • Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law
    • Final Divorce Decree/Judgment
    • Name Change Orders (if applicable)

  9. Post-Judgment Filings:

    • Modifications to the original decree
    • Enforcement actions
    • Appeals documentation

The certified divorce certificate issued by the Washington State Department of Health contains more limited information, typically including:

  • Names of both parties
  • Date of marriage
  • Date of divorce
  • County where divorce was granted
  • Case number

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Pierce County?

Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Pierce County have several options for obtaining this documentation, depending on the level of detail and certification needed.

For a certified copy of the divorce decree (the most comprehensive proof):

  1. Visit the Pierce County Clerk's Office in person.

Pierce County Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Clerk

  1. Complete a request form specifying the case number (if known) or provide the names of both parties and approximate date of divorce.
  2. Present valid government-issued photo identification.
  3. Pay the certification fee (currently $5.00 per document plus $0.50 per page copying fee).
  4. Certified copies can be obtained in person or by mail by sending a written request with the required information and payment.

For a certified divorce certificate (abbreviated proof of divorce):

  1. Submit a request to the Washington State Department of Health, Center for Health Statistics.
  2. Complete the vital records request form.
  3. Provide proof of identity and eligibility to receive the record.
  4. Pay the required fee (currently $25 per certificate).

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 9709
Olympia, WA 98507
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

For divorces finalized more than 30 years ago:

  1. Contact the Washington State Archives, Puget Sound Regional Branch.

Washington State Archives - Puget Sound Regional Branch
3000 Landerholm Circle SE, MS-N100
Bellevue, WA 98007
(425) 564-3940
Washington State Archives

  1. Provide as much information as possible about the divorce case.
  2. Pay applicable research and copy fees.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Pierce County?

While divorce proceedings in Pierce County are generally matters of public record, certain mechanisms exist under Washington law to protect sensitive information and, in limited circumstances, to seal portions of divorce records from public view.

Under RCW § 26.12.080 and related court rules, the following aspects of divorce cases may be confidential:

  1. Automatic Confidentiality Protections:

    • Personal identifying information such as Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and driver's license numbers
    • Names and identifying information of minor children
    • Medical and health records
    • Income tax returns
    • Financial declarations and supporting documentation

  2. Sealing by Court Order:

    • Parties may petition the court to seal specific documents or entire case files
    • The court applies a balancing test weighing privacy interests against the public's right to access
    • Compelling privacy or safety concerns must be demonstrated
    • Sealing orders must be narrowly tailored to protect only necessary information

  3. Grounds for Sealing Divorce Records:

    • Domestic violence or abuse allegations
    • Child abuse or neglect concerns
    • Sensitive medical or mental health information
    • Substantial risk of harm from disclosure
    • Trade secrets or proprietary business information

  4. Confidential Alternative Dispute Resolution:

    • Mediation communications are confidential by statute
    • Collaborative divorce processes offer greater privacy
    • Settlement negotiations may remain private, though final agreements typically become public record

It is important to note that even when records are sealed, they remain accessible to:

  • The parties to the case
  • Attorneys of record
  • Court personnel
  • Law enforcement officials with proper authorization
  • Other individuals specifically authorized by court order

Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with legal counsel early in the divorce process to implement appropriate protective measures.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Pierce County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Pierce County varies significantly based on multiple factors, including case complexity, level of agreement between parties, court caseload, and statutory waiting periods mandated by Washington law.

Under RCW § 26.09.030, Washington State imposes a mandatory 90-day waiting period from the date of filing and service before a divorce can be finalized. This cooling-off period applies to all dissolution cases, regardless of complexity or agreement status.

Beyond this minimum timeframe, divorce proceedings typically follow these approximate timelines:

  1. Uncontested Divorces (parties agree on all issues):

    • Minimum: 90 days from filing and service
    • Typical range: 3-5 months
    • Factors affecting timeline: document preparation, court scheduling, processing times

  2. Contested Divorces with Eventual Settlement:

    • Typical range: 6-12 months
    • Key phases: discovery, negotiation, mediation, settlement agreement drafting, court approval
    • Factors affecting timeline: complexity of assets, parenting issues, attorney availability, court calendar

  3. Fully Contested Divorces Requiring Trial:

    • Typical range: 12-24 months
    • Key phases: discovery, temporary orders, pretrial motions, trial preparation, trial, post-trial motions
    • Factors affecting timeline: court congestion, case complexity, expert witness involvement

According to the Pierce County Superior Court Family Court Services, additional factors that may extend the divorce timeline include:

  • Need for business or property valuations
  • Complex child custody evaluations
  • Guardian ad litem investigations
  • Relocation issues
  • International or interstate jurisdictional questions
  • Appeals of temporary orders
  • Bankruptcy filings by either party

The court's current caseload and staffing levels also impact scheduling and processing times. Parties seeking expedited processing should consult with legal counsel about available options within the constraints of statutory requirements.

How Long Does Pierce County Keep Divorce Records?

Pierce County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established under the Washington State Archives' Local Government Records Retention Schedule and the General Records Retention Schedule for the Judiciary.

The retention periods for divorce records in Pierce County are as follows:

  1. Court Case Files:

    • Active divorce case files are maintained by the Pierce County Clerk's Office indefinitely while the case remains open
    • Closed case files are retained by the Clerk's Office for a minimum of 6 years after case closure
    • After the initial retention period, records are transferred to the Washington State Archives, Puget Sound Regional Branch for permanent preservation

  2. Divorce Decrees and Judgments:

    • Final divorce decrees and judgments are maintained permanently
    • These documents are never destroyed due to their ongoing legal significance
    • After the initial retention period with the Clerk's Office, they are transferred to the State Archives

  3. Indexes and Registers:

    • Case indexes, registers of actions, and docket books are retained permanently
    • These finding aids remain accessible even after the transfer of physical case files

  4. Supporting Documentation:

    • Exhibits, depositions, and other supporting materials may have varying retention periods
    • Generally retained for 6 years after case closure
    • May be returned to submitting parties after case conclusion

  5. Electronic Records:

    • Digital court records follow the same retention schedules as paper records
    • The LINX system maintains searchable case information according to established retention policies

For certified divorce certificates, the Washington State Department of Health maintains these vital records permanently in accordance with RCW § 70.58A.530.

Individuals seeking historical divorce records should note that older records may be:

  • Stored in microfilm format
  • Housed at the Washington State Archives rather than the courthouse
  • Subject to different access procedures than current records

How To Get a Divorce In Pierce County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Pierce County must follow specific procedures established under Washington State law. The dissolution process involves several distinct steps that must be completed in sequence.

To initiate a divorce in Pierce County:

  1. Establish Eligibility:

    • Either spouse must be a resident of Washington State
    • No minimum residency period is required
    • The marriage must be legally recognized

  2. Prepare Initial Documents:

    • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
    • Summons
    • Confidential Information Form
    • Vital Statistics Form
    • Financial Declaration (if property, debts, or support issues exist)
    • Proposed Parenting Plan (if children are involved)

  3. File Documents with the Court:

Pierce County Superior Court Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Superior Court

  • Pay the filing fee (currently $314)
  • Fee waivers available for qualifying low-income individuals

  1. Serve the Other Party:

    • Arrange for legal service of the petition and summons
    • Service must be performed by someone over 18 who is not a party to the case
    • File proof of service with the court

  2. Wait for Response:

    • Respondent has 20 days to file a response if served in Washington
    • 60 days if served outside Washington
    • 90 days if served by publication

  3. Complete Required Waiting Period:

    • Washington law mandates a 90-day waiting period from filing and service
    • No divorce can be finalized before this period expires

  4. Resolve Issues Through:

    • Direct negotiation between parties
    • Mediation services
    • Collaborative divorce process
    • Court hearings and trial (if necessary)

  5. Finalize the Divorce:

    • Submit final orders for court approval
    • Attend final hearing (if required)
    • Receive signed Decree of Dissolution

For assistance with the divorce process, parties may contact:

Pierce County Family Court Services
County-City Building
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 104
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-3654
Family Court Services

How To Get Divorce Papers In Pierce County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Pierce County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documentation. The appropriate method depends on the complexity of the case and whether professional legal assistance is desired.

To obtain divorce papers in Pierce County:

  1. Access Forms Online:

    • Visit the Washington Courts website to download standardized family law forms
    • Forms are available in fillable PDF format
    • Basic divorce packets include petitions, summons, financial declarations, and parenting plans

  2. Visit the Pierce County Law Library:

Pierce County Law Library
County-City Building
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 100
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-3250
Pierce County Law Library

  • Access printed form packets
  • Utilize legal research materials
  • Receive assistance locating appropriate forms
  • Use public computers for form completion
  1. Obtain Forms from the Courthouse:

Pierce County Superior Court Clerk's Office
930 Tacoma Avenue S, Room 110
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-7455
Pierce County Clerk

  • Purchase form packets for various divorce scenarios
  • Receive basic filing instructions
  • Note that clerk staff cannot provide legal advice
  1. Seek Assistance from Legal Aid Organizations:

Tacomaprobono
621 Tacoma Avenue South, Suite 303
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 572-5134
Tacomaprobono

  • Free or low-cost legal assistance for qualifying individuals
  • Form completion assistance
  • Legal clinics and workshops

  1. Consult with an Attorney:

    • Private attorneys can prepare customized divorce documents
    • Limited scope representation may be available for document preparation only
    • The Tacoma-Pierce County Bar Association offers lawyer referral services

  2. Use the Family Court Resource Center:

Family Court Resource Center
County-City Building
930 Tacoma Avenue S, First Floor
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 798-3627
Family Court Resource Center

  • Self-help resources
  • Information about court procedures
  • Assistance understanding form requirements

Lookup Divorce Records in Pierce County

LINX Search

Vital Records | Washington State Department of Health

Other Categories in Washington
Criminal Records Court Records Inmate Records Arrest records Warrant Search Property Records Divorce Records