OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS

Because You Need to Know
Washington Public Records

Use this page to find court records, arrest records, and other public records in Washington. Each section links to the official agency or online tool that holds the records.

⚡ At a Glance

  • State courts: 39 counties across 30+ superior court districts
  • Federal courts: 2 U.S. District Courts (Eastern, Western)
  • Background checks: Washington State Patrol — Criminal History Records
  • Records law: Washington Public Records Act
How to use this page: Pick the type of record you need below. Court records and arrest records each have their own section with links to the agencies that hold them. Official links go to government websites — not third-party services.

Start here: Choose the type of record you need below, then follow the link to the official source.

What You Can Find Here

⚖️ State and federal court case records
🔍 Arrest records and jail bookings by county
📋 Criminal background checks through WSP
🏛️ Property, vital, and other public records
What you will need:
  • Full name of the person or business
  • Case number, if you have one
  • Approximate date or location of the record

Court Records

Washington has 39 counties. You can search court cases using Washington Courts case search (JIS Link) for statewide access to case information.

County-level court records include superior courts, district courts, and municipal courts. JIS Link provides broad online access.

Federal Courts

Federal cases in Washington are handled by two U.S. District Courts:

  • Eastern District — Spokane, Yakima, Richland
  • Western District — Seattle, Tacoma

Federal court records are available through the PACER system. Some records can be viewed at no cost at federal courthouse public terminals.

⚖️ Washington Courts — JIS Link Case Search 🏛️ Washington Courts Website

Use the official link above to access records or contact the office directly.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Washington are created and held by the arresting agency. Contact the agency directly for copies.

For statewide criminal history, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) maintains the Criminal History Records section.

🔍 WSP — Criminal History Records 📋 Washington State Patrol Website

Use the official link above to access records or contact the office directly.

Other Public Records

Washington operates under the Washington Public Records Act (RCW 42.56). Any person can request government records. Agencies must respond within 5 business days.

How to file a request: Write to the government body that holds the records. Include your name, contact information, and a clear description of what records you want. Requests can be sent by mail, email, fax, or hand-delivered. No special form is required.

How Records Work in Washington

Court records are maintained by the Washington Courts across 39 counties. Criminal history is centralized through the WSP. Arrest records stay with the arresting agency unless submitted to the state system.

Many records are available online for free. Certified copies, background checks, and some older records may require a fee or in-person visit.

Counties in Washington

Washington has 39 counties. Select one below to find local court, arrest, and public records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Based on publicly available information from Washington state agencies and federal courts.

How do I search court records in Washington for free?
Use JIS Link, the official Washington Courts case search system.
Are arrest records public in Washington?
Yes. Arrest records are public under the Washington Public Records Act. Contact the arresting agency directly — city police, county sheriff, or state agency — to request a copy.
How do I run a background check in Washington?
The WSP provides criminal history records. Visit wsp.wa.gov for details.
What is the Washington Public Records Act?
It is the state law that gives the public the right to access government records. Agencies must respond within 5 business days.
How many court systems does Washington have?
Washington has a multi-level court system: municipal courts, district courts, superior courts, the Court of Appeals (3 divisions), and the Washington Supreme Court.
What this page does not show: Not all records are available online. Some require a written request, an in-person visit, or a fee. Court records and arrest data may be incomplete, delayed, or not yet entered into online systems.

This page is a guide to help you find official records — it is not the official database. All information comes from government sources. Verify details directly with the agency that holds the records.

Last updated: April 15, 2026