Finding King County Washington public records is fast and mostly free when you use the official Superior Court, County Clerk / Recorder, and county portals. Court cases, criminal records, arrest records, property deeds, marriage records, death records, birth records, probate, tax records — everything you need is covered here with complete step-by-step instructions.
No paid third-party sites. Just official clickable links, detailed guides, maps, and practical tips that work perfectly on your phone or desktop.
Quick facts you need first
King County Washington Public Records at a Glance – 2026
King County provides online access to most public records through the Superior Court, Recorder’s Office, and Assessor. Here is every major type and the exact official link.
| Record Type | Best Official Portal | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Court & Criminal Records | kingcounty.gov/courts/superior-court | Free search |
| Arrest Records | Superior Court | Free |
| Property Records & Deeds | kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office | Free viewing |
| Property Appraiser Data | kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor | Free |
| Marriage Records | Recorder’s Office | $10+ |
| Death Records | Recorder’s Office / Washington State | $10–$15 |
| Birth Records | Recorder’s Office / Washington State | $10–$15 |
| Probate Records | Superior Court | Free |
| Tax Records & Liens | King County Assessor | Free |
What this guide helps you do
King County Clerk Office Location & Best Time to Visit
The main King County Recorder’s Office and Superior Court are located in downtown Seattle at the King County Courthouse, 516 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104. Many records are available online, but certified copies or older files may require an in-person visit.
How to Search King County Court Records Online
Go to https://www.kingcounty.gov/courts/superior-court.aspx.
Choose the free case search tools (eCourts or Odyssey).
Search by name, case number, or other criteria.
Use full legal name and correct spelling. Add date range if known.
Click any case to see full history and available documents.
Save all available documents immediately.
Use the online request system for stamped copies.
How to Search King County Criminal Records and Arrest Records
Navigate to criminal division or case search.
Enter full name or booking/case number.
Use date range to narrow results.
Click cases to see charges and disposition.
Save available charging documents and reports.
How to Search King County Property Records and Official Records
Visit kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office for real estate records.
Search by name (grantor/grantee) or document number.
Go to kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor for owner, valuation, and tax info.
Download available PDFs of deeds and liens.
Check latest recorded documents for current ownership.
How to Get King County Marriage Records
Certified copies are needed for legal use.
Visit kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office.
Provide both parties’ full names and marriage date.
$10–$30 depending on delivery.
Keep confirmation number.
How to Get King County Death Records
Go to kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office or Washington State Department of Health.
Use the secure portal or VitalChek for fastest service.
Full name, date of death, and your relationship.
$10–$15 per certified copy.
Save confirmation number.
How to Get King County Birth Records
Visit kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office or Washington State Department of Health.
Choose online or mail option.
Provide full names and date of birth.
$10–$15 per certified copy.
15 King County Public Records FAQs people actually search in 2026
1) How do I search King County court records for free?
Use the free case search tools at kingcounty.gov/courts/superior-court. No login is required for basic case information.
2) How do I find arrest records in King County?
Search criminal cases on the Superior Court public access portal using the person’s name or case number.
3) Where can I search official records and deeds?
Go to kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office for free viewing of deeds, mortgages, and liens.
4) How do I find who owns a property in King County?
Use the free search at kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor – enter the address or parcel number.
5) How do I order a marriage certificate?
Request it through the Recorder’s Office at kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office.
6) Where do I get a death certificate in King County?
Order through kingcounty.gov/depts/records-licensing/recorders-office or Washington State Department of Health.
7) How do I get a birth certificate?
Use the same Recorder’s Office or Washington State Department of Health system.
8) Are probate records public?
Yes. Probate cases can be searched on the Superior Court public access portal.
9) How do I check for tax liens or tax deeds?
Use the Assessor site and the Recorder’s Official Records search together.
10) Is there a fee for viewing records online?
Viewing most records is free. Only certified copies have a small fee.
11) How long does it take to get certified records?
Online viewing is instant. Certified copies are usually processed within days to weeks.
12) Can I search records from any year?
Most modern records are online. Older records may require an in-person visit or special request.
13) What if my search returns no results?
Try spelling variations, different date ranges, or contact the Clerk’s office.
14) How do I request other public records?
Use the official Public Records request process on kingcounty.gov or the specific department site.
15) Are criminal records sealed or expunged?
Some records can be sealed or expunged by court order and will not appear in public searches.
Official King County Public Records Links and Resources
Final practical takeaway
Always use the official links. Have exact names and dates ready. Save every result. These three habits save you time and money on every King County public records search.