So You Want to Dig Up Some Dirt? A Guide to Finding Divorce Records in Washington State
Let's face it, sometimes life takes a turn, and happily ever after gets a rewrite. Maybe you're an ancestry buff on a quest for your great-great-aunt Mildred's mysterious past, or a writer needing some juicy details for your historical romance novel (hey, those tears gotta come from somewhere!). Whatever your reason, you've found yourself on the path of unearthing divorce records in the wonderful state of Washington.
But wait! Before you grab your metaphorical shovel and head out, there are a few things to consider.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
The Great Divide of 1968: Buckle up, history buffs! This is where things get interesting. Divorce records in Washington are like a choose-your-own-adventure story, depending on when the curtain closed on the marriage. If the ink dried after 1968, you're in luck, friend! The Washington Department of Health (fancy, right?) has you covered.
Pre-1968? Time to dust off the microfilm: If your quest goes back further than 1968, things get a bit more old-school. You'll need to head to the Superior Court Clerk's office in the county where the divorce took place. Think microfilm machines and whispers of forgotten court cases.
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks (or should we say, wedding bands?):
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
Hunting for Records Post-1968: The Washington Department of Health is your one-stop shop! You can search and order records online, by mail, over the phone, or even in person (who knew the government could be so accommodating?). There is a backlog, though, so be prepared to wait 7-8 months for records from 2023 and onward. But hey, good things come to those who wait, right? Important note: You won't find the full decree here, just a certified copy of the divorce certificate.
Unearthing Pre-1968 Treasures: This is where things get adventurous! Ready your detective hat, because you might have to visit the Superior Court Clerk's office in the county where the divorce happened. Some counties even have their records digitized, making your search a breeze.
Pro Tip: If you're stuck and can't pinpoint the county, the Washington State Archives might have what you're looking for, especially for early divorce records.
Tip: Slow down at important lists or bullet points.
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
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| How To Find Divorce Records In Washington State |
So You've Found the Record, Now What?
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Well, that depends entirely on why you started digging in the first place. Maybe you're putting together a killer family tree, or maybe you just needed a little closure. Whatever your reason, hopefully, this guide helped you unearth the information you were looking for.
FAQs:
How to Find a Divorce Record Online in Washington State (After 1968): Head to the Washington Department of Health website https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates/vital-records/ordering-vital-record/marriage-or-divorce-record.
How to Find a Divorce Record in Person in Washington State: Visit the Superior Court Clerk's office in the county where the divorce was finalized.
How to Find a Divorce Record Before 1968 in Washington State: The Superior Court Clerk's office in the relevant county is your best bet. The Washington State Archives might also have some hidden gems.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a Copy of a Divorce Record in Washington State? Fees vary depending on the method you choose (online, mail, etc.) but typically range from $10 to $20.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Copy of a Divorce Record in Washington State? For records after 2023, expect a 7-8 month wait due to backlog. In-person requests and pre-1968 records will likely have a shorter turnaround time.
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