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Kitsap County Court Records

What Is Kitsap County Court Records

Court records in Kitsap County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. Pursuant to Washington Court General Rule 31, court records include case files, dockets, indices, pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, verdicts, transcripts, exhibits, and sentencing information. These records are distinct from other public records such as property deeds, vital statistics, or tax assessments, which are maintained by different county departments.

The Kitsap County court system consists of several jurisdictions that maintain their own records:

  • Superior Court - handles felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $100,000, real property cases, domestic relations, probate, mental illness, juvenile matters, and appeals from lower courts
  • District Court - processes misdemeanors, traffic infractions, small claims (under $10,000), and civil cases under $100,000
  • Municipal Courts (Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo) - handle city ordinance violations, misdemeanors, and traffic infractions within city limits

Court records in Kitsap County document proceedings across civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, and traffic matters. The Kitsap County Superior Court serves as the court of general jurisdiction, while specialized divisions handle specific case types such as family law, juvenile matters, and probate proceedings.

Are Court Records Public In Kitsap County

Court records in Kitsap County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Washington's Public Records Act (RCW 42.56) and the state constitution's mandate for open courts. The Washington State Constitution, Article I, § 10 states: "Justice in all cases shall be administered openly, and without unnecessary delay," establishing the foundational principle of public access to court proceedings and records.

Most court records available to the public include:

  • Civil case files (with certain privacy exceptions)
  • Criminal case files (post-charging)
  • Judgments and orders
  • Docket sheets and indices
  • Hearing schedules and calendars
  • Court administrative records

However, certain records may be restricted or sealed by court order or statute. According to Washington Court General Rule 31(d), restricted records may include:

  • Adoption files
  • Mental health proceedings
  • Juvenile court records (with exceptions)
  • Sealed records pursuant to court order
  • Records containing personal identifiers such as Social Security numbers
  • Records protected by attorney-client privilege
  • Records subject to protective orders

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system rather than county resources.

How To Find Court Records in Kitsap County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Kitsap County may utilize several methods to locate and obtain these documents. The county provides multiple access points depending on the type of record sought and the court of jurisdiction.

For Superior Court records, individuals may:

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

    Kitsap County Clerk's Office
    614 Division Street, MS-34
    Port Orchard, WA 98366
    (360) 337-7164
    Kitsap County Clerk
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

  2. Submit a records request form to the Clerk's Office, which can be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically.

  3. Access historical court records through the Washington State Digital Archives, which maintains digitized Kitsap County court records dating back to territorial days.

For District Court records, requestors may:

  1. Visit the District Court Clerk's Office:

    Kitsap County District Court
    614 Division Street
    Port Orchard, WA 98366
    (360) 337-7109
    Kitsap County District Court
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

  2. Submit a written request specifying the case number, party names, and documents needed.

  3. Utilize the District Court ePortal for electronically filed documents in cases previously initiated.

For Municipal Court records, contact the specific city court directly:

When requesting records, individuals should provide as much identifying information as possible, including case numbers, party names, and date ranges to facilitate efficient retrieval.

How To Look Up Court Records in Kitsap County Online?

Kitsap County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records online, providing convenient alternatives to in-person requests. These electronic resources vary by court jurisdiction and record type.

The primary online resources include:

  1. Washington State Courts Name and Case Search - This statewide portal provides basic case information for Superior, District, and Municipal courts throughout Washington, including Kitsap County. Users can search by name or case number to find case types, filing dates, party information, and docket entries. The system is updated daily at 3:00 AM. Washington Courts Case Search

  2. Washington State Digital Archives - For historical court records, the Digital Archives maintains a searchable database of Kitsap County Superior Court records. To access these records:

    • Visit the Digital Archives website
    • Select "Superior Court Records" from the "Record Series" dropdown
    • Choose "Kitsap County" from the location options
    • Enter search criteria such as names, dates, or case types

  3. Kitsap County District Court ePortal - This platform allows attorneys and self-represented litigants to access electronically filed documents for previously initiated cases. Users must register for an account to utilize this service. District Court ePortal

  4. Odyssey Portal - For Superior Court cases, this system provides access to case information, register of actions, and some document images. Certain sensitive documents may be restricted. Odyssey Portal

  5. JIS-Link - This subscription-based service provides more comprehensive access to court records for legal professionals and approved agencies. Registration and fees apply.

When searching online, users should note that:

  • Full case files may not be available electronically
  • Some documents require in-person requests
  • Confidential or sealed records are not accessible online
  • Historical records may have limited online availability
  • Document images may require fees to view or download

For records not available through these online systems, requestors should contact the appropriate court clerk's office directly.

How To Search Kitsap County Court Records for Free?

Washington state law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge. Pursuant to RCW 42.56.120, agencies may not charge a fee for the inspection of public records, including court documents, though reasonable fees may apply for copies or specialized searches.

Kitsap County residents and other interested parties may access court records without cost through several methods:

  1. In-Person Inspection - Individuals may visit the appropriate court clerk's office during regular business hours to review non-confidential court records at no charge. The clerk will retrieve the requested files for on-site examination.

  2. Free Online Resources:

  3. Public Access Terminals - Computer terminals are available at the courthouse for public use to search court records. These terminals may provide access to additional information not available through external websites.

  4. Law Library Resources - The Kitsap County Law Library, located in the courthouse, provides public access to legal research tools that may assist in locating court records.

    Kitsap County Law Library
    614 Division Street, Room 110
    Port Orchard, WA 98366
    (360) 337-7174
    Kitsap County Law Library
    Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

While inspection is free, fees may apply for:

  • Printed or electronic copies of documents
  • Certification of records
  • Research services performed by court staff
  • Expedited processing
  • Shipping or mailing of records

Current fee schedules are available from each court clerk's office and are established in accordance with Washington Court Rule GR 31.1.

What's Included in a Kitsap County Court Record?

Kitsap County court records typically contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings from initiation through disposition. The specific contents vary by case type and court jurisdiction, but generally include the following components:

For Civil Cases:

  • Complaint or petition initiating the action
  • Summons and proof of service
  • Answers and counterclaims
  • Motions and supporting memoranda
  • Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
  • Affidavits and declarations
  • Court orders and rulings
  • Judgment documents
  • Notices of appeal
  • Transcripts (if prepared)
  • Exhibits admitted into evidence

For Criminal Cases:

  • Charging documents (information or indictment)
  • Probable cause statements
  • Bail and pretrial release documents
  • Plea agreements
  • Motions and responses
  • Court orders
  • Verdict forms
  • Sentencing documents
  • Judgment and sentence
  • Restitution orders
  • Probation/community supervision terms
  • Appeal notices

For Family Law Cases:

  • Petition for dissolution or legal separation
  • Parenting plans
  • Child support worksheets and orders
  • Financial declarations
  • Property division proposals
  • Temporary orders
  • Final divorce decree
  • Post-judgment modifications

For Probate Matters:

  • Will (if applicable)
  • Petition for probate
  • Letters testamentary or of administration
  • Inventory and appraisement
  • Creditor claims
  • Accounting reports
  • Distribution orders
  • Estate closing documents

Each court record also includes a register of actions (docket sheet) that chronologically lists all events and filings in the case, providing a procedural history of the matter. Case indices contain party names, case numbers, filing dates, and case types to facilitate record location.

Pursuant to Washington Court General Rule 31, certain sensitive information may be redacted from public court records, including Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and names of minor children in specific case types.

How Long Does Kitsap County Keep Court Records?

Kitsap County courts maintain records according to retention schedules established by the Washington State Archives under the authority of RCW 40.14, which governs the preservation and destruction of public records. These schedules vary by record type, case category, and historical significance.

Key retention periods include:

For Superior Court:

  • Felony case files: Permanent retention for Class A felonies; 10 years after case closure for other felonies
  • Civil case files: 6-10 years after case closure, depending on case type
  • Domestic relations cases: 25 years after case closure
  • Probate cases: 10 years after case closure
  • Adoption records: Permanent retention
  • Juvenile offender records: Until subject's 23rd birthday or last involvement with juvenile court, whichever is later
  • Guardianship cases: 10 years after termination of guardianship

For District Court:

  • Criminal misdemeanor cases: 10 years after case closure
  • Civil cases: 6 years after case closure
  • Small claims: 6 years after judgment
  • Traffic infractions: 3 years after case closure
  • Domestic violence protection orders: 90 years

For Municipal Courts:

  • Criminal cases: 3-10 years after case closure, depending on offense type
  • Traffic infractions: 3 years after resolution
  • Parking violations: 3 years after resolution

Court dockets, indices, and judgment records typically have longer retention periods than case files, with many maintained permanently due to their historical and legal significance. The Washington State Archives serves as the repository for court records that have permanent historical value after their active use period ends.

Digital preservation initiatives have expanded in recent years, with many older records being digitized and transferred to the Washington State Digital Archives for permanent preservation and improved public access. Records not selected for permanent retention are destroyed in accordance with approved disposition procedures that ensure confidentiality.

Types of Courts In Kitsap County

Kitsap County's judicial system consists of several court levels, each with distinct jurisdictions and authority. The county's courts operate within Washington's unified court system under the administrative authority of the state Supreme Court.

Kitsap County Superior Court
614 Division Street
Port Orchard, WA 98366
(360) 337-7140
Kitsap County Superior Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Superior Court serves as the court of general jurisdiction in Kitsap County, handling felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $100,000, real property disputes, domestic relations, probate, mental illness proceedings, and juvenile matters. The court also hears appeals from lower courts. Seven elected judges preside over Superior Court proceedings.

Kitsap County District Court
614 Division Street
Port Orchard, WA 98366
(360) 337-7109
Kitsap County District Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

District Court has limited jurisdiction, handling misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic infractions, small claims (up to $10,000), civil actions under $100,000, domestic violence protection orders, and preliminary hearings in felony cases. Three elected judges serve on the District Court bench.

Bainbridge Island Municipal Court
10255 NE Valley Road
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
(206) 842-5641
Bainbridge Island Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Bremerton Municipal Court
550 Park Avenue
Bremerton, WA 98337
(360) 473-5260
Bremerton Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Port Orchard Municipal Court
216 Prospect Street
Port Orchard, WA 98366
(360) 876-1701
Port Orchard Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Poulsbo Municipal Court
200 NE Moe Street
Poulsbo, WA 98370
(360) 779-9846
Poulsbo Municipal Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Municipal Courts have jurisdiction over violations of city ordinances, misdemeanors, and traffic infractions occurring within city limits. Each city maintains its own municipal court with appointed judges.

Appeals from Kitsap County courts follow this hierarchy:

  • Municipal Court decisions may be appealed to Superior Court
  • District Court decisions may be appealed to Superior Court
  • Superior Court decisions may be appealed to the Washington Court of Appeals, Division II
  • Court of Appeals decisions may be appealed to the Washington Supreme Court

The Washington Court of Appeals, Division II, which hears appeals from Kitsap County, is located in Tacoma:

Washington Court of Appeals, Division II
950 Broadway, Suite 300
Tacoma, WA 98402
(253) 593-2970
Washington Court of Appeals

What Types of Cases Do Kitsap County Courts Hear?

Kitsap County's court system adjudicates a diverse range of legal matters, with jurisdiction divided among the various courts based on case type, monetary value, and geographic boundaries.

Superior Court handles:

  • Felony criminal prosecutions (murder, assault, robbery, drug offenses)
  • Civil lawsuits exceeding $100,000
  • Real property disputes and quiet title actions
  • Domestic relations (divorce, child custody, support)
  • Probate and estate administration
  • Guardianships and conservatorships
  • Mental illness commitment proceedings
  • Juvenile offender cases
  • Juvenile dependencies
  • Appeals from lower courts
  • Administrative agency appeals
  • Tax appeals

District Court processes:

  • Misdemeanor criminal cases (DUI, assault, theft under $750)
  • Gross misdemeanors (maximum penalty of 364 days jail/up to $5,000 fine)
  • Civil actions up to $100,000
  • Small claims up to $10,000
  • Traffic infractions
  • Anti-harassment and domestic violence protection orders
  • Name changes
  • Preliminary hearings in felony cases
  • Vehicle impound hearings
  • Dog designation hearings

Municipal Courts adjudicate:

  • Violations of city ordinances
  • Misdemeanors occurring within city limits
  • Traffic infractions within city boundaries
  • Parking violations
  • City code enforcement matters
  • Animal control violations
  • Public nuisance cases

Specialized calendars and dockets exist within these courts to address specific case types:

  • Drug Court (Superior Court)
  • Mental Health Court (Superior Court)
  • Veterans Treatment Court (District Court)
  • Therapeutic courts for behavioral health issues
  • Juvenile Diversion programs
  • Family Treatment Court

The jurisdiction of these courts is established by the Washington State Constitution and codified in the Revised Code of Washington, primarily in RCW 2.08 (Superior Courts), RCW 3.66 (District Courts), and RCW 3.50 (Municipal Courts).

How To Find a Court Docket In Kitsap County

Court dockets in Kitsap County provide chronological listings of all proceedings and filings in a case, offering valuable information about case status, scheduled hearings, and court actions. Members of the public may access docket information through several methods.

For Superior Court dockets:

  1. Visit the Washington Courts Name and Case Search portal
  2. Enter the party name or case number
  3. Select Kitsap County from the jurisdiction options
  4. Review the register of actions, which serves as the official docket

Alternatively, individuals may:

  • Visit the Superior Court Clerk's Office in person to request docket printouts
  • Check the Superior Court Calendar for upcoming hearing schedules
  • Contact the Clerk's Office at (360) 337-7164 for docket information

For District Court dockets:

  1. Use the District Court Case Search function
  2. Enter the defendant's name or case number
  3. Select Kitsap County District Court from the jurisdiction options
  4. Review the case history and scheduled events

Additional District Court docket access options include:

  • In-person requests at the District Court Clerk's Office
  • Reviewing posted daily calendars at the courthouse
  • Accessing the District Court ePortal for registered users

For Municipal Court dockets, contact the specific city court directly or use the statewide court portal and select the appropriate municipal court jurisdiction.

Daily court calendars listing scheduled hearings are typically posted:

  • On bulletin boards near courtrooms
  • On the county court website
  • At the clerk's office public counter
  • Through the statewide JIS-Link subscription service for legal professionals

When searching for docket information, it is advisable to have the following information available:

  • Complete party names (first and last)
  • Case number (if known)
  • Approximate filing date
  • Case type

Docket information is updated daily, but there may be a 24-48 hour delay between court actions and their appearance in electronic systems.

Which Courts in Kitsap County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Washington State, courts are designated as either "courts of record" or "courts not of record" pursuant to RCW 3.30.015. This distinction determines whether proceedings are recorded verbatim and whether the court maintains comprehensive documentation of all matters heard.

In Kitsap County, the following are courts not of record:

  1. Small Claims Court - A division of District Court that handles civil claims up to $10,000. Proceedings are informal, not recorded verbatim, and typically do not involve attorneys. Appeals from Small Claims Court decisions are heard de novo (completely new trial) in Superior Court.

  2. Traffic Infractions Hearings - When conducted as administrative proceedings rather than formal contested hearings, these may not be recorded verbatim. However, if a contested hearing is requested, it becomes a proceeding of record.

  3. Certain Municipal Court Proceedings - While municipal courts generally function as courts of record for criminal matters, some administrative proceedings and first appearances may not be recorded verbatim.

Courts of record in Kitsap County include:

  • Kitsap County Superior Court
  • Kitsap County District Court (for criminal matters and formal civil proceedings)
  • Municipal Courts (for criminal matters)

The primary distinctions between courts of record and courts not of record include:

  • Courts of record maintain verbatim transcripts or recordings of proceedings
  • Appeals from courts of record are based on the record created in the lower court
  • Courts not of record do not maintain verbatim records
  • Appeals from courts not of record result in de novo trials in Superior Court

This distinction is significant for appellate purposes, as noted in RCW 3.02.020, which states: "All civil actions originally filed in district court shall be tried by the court without a jury, unless a jury is demanded... Appeals from judgments of district courts shall be taken to the superior court... according to the provisions of law relating to appeals to the superior court from district courts."

Lookup Court Records in Kitsap County

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Kitsap County Superior Court

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Washington State Digital Archives - Kitsap County Records

Washington State Courts Name and Case Search

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