Find Dissolution Of Marriage Records in Frederickson
Frederickson dissolution of marriage cases are handled through the Pierce County Superior Court, which serves all of Pierce County. If you need to look up a divorce case, get a copy of a dissolution decree, or understand how to file, the Pierce County Clerk's office in Tacoma manages all of those records. You can search cases online through the LINX system for cases filed since 1991, or request records in person or by mail from the courthouse.
Frederickson Overview
Where to File for Dissolution in Frederickson
Frederickson is an unincorporated community in Pierce County. Dissolution of marriage cases for Frederickson residents go to the Pierce County Superior Court in Tacoma. The Superior Court is a general jurisdiction court that handles all family law matters, including divorce, custody, child support, and domestic relations. The Civil and Domestic Trials division manages complex civil disputes and dissolution cases.
Pierce County Superior Court has 22 judges and 9 commissioners. The County Clerk's office handles case files and records requests. If you need to file a new dissolution case or get records from an old one, the clerk's office at the Pierce County Courthouse is where you start. Frederickson does not have its own courthouse. All filings go through Tacoma.
| Office | Pierce County Superior Court Clerk |
|---|---|
| Address | 930 Tacoma Ave S, Room 110 Tacoma, WA 98402 |
| Phone | (253) 798-7440 |
| Website | piercecountywa.gov/Court-Records |
The courthouse is in Tacoma, about 20 to 25 minutes from most parts of Frederickson. Bring a photo ID when you visit. The clerk's office can help with filing, records requests, and answering basic procedural questions.
How to Search Frederickson Dissolution Records
Pierce County provides an online case search system called LINX. For dissolution of marriage cases filed since 1991, you can search by party name or case number at linxonline.co.pierce.wa.us. The system shows party names, case status, and docket information. For cases before 1991, you need to contact the Superior Court Clerk directly.
Pierce County's court records page provides access to case information, filing guides, and instructions for requesting copies of dissolution documents.
You can also use the statewide search tool at odysseyportal.courts.wa.gov to look across multiple Washington counties. For older historical records, the Washington State Digital Archives at digitalarchives.wa.gov may have what you need. To search, have at least one spouse's full name and an approximate filing year ready.
Filing Fees in Frederickson
Dissolution of marriage filing fees in Frederickson are set by Pierce County under Washington State law. The current fee is approximately $320. This amount includes various surcharges for court operations and facilities. Always check with the clerk's office before filing, as fees can be updated.
Copies from the Pierce County Clerk have their own fees. Certified copies cost $5 for the first page and $1 for each additional page. Non-certified copies cost roughly $0.25 to $0.50 per page depending on whether you order online or in person. Mail requests typically take about seven working days to process.
The Pierce County Clerk's page covers fees, filing procedures, and how to request certified copies of dissolution decrees and other court records.
If you cannot afford the filing fee, ask the court about a fee waiver. You will need to show proof of income or public assistance. Forms for a fee waiver are available at the courthouse and through the Washington Courts website.
The Dissolution Process
Frederickson residents file for dissolution under RCW Chapter 26.09. Washington is a no-fault state. The only ground for dissolution is that the marriage is "irretrievably broken." You do not need to prove fault or blame. Either spouse can make that statement, and the court will proceed.
One spouse files a Petition for Dissolution and a Summons at the Pierce County Superior Court. The other spouse must be served with those documents. Under RCW 26.09.030, at least one spouse must be a Washington resident or military member stationed in the state at the time of filing. Washington does not require a waiting period before filing, but the court cannot finalize the dissolution until 90 days after the petition is filed and served.
If both spouses agree on all terms, they can file an agreed decree together, which usually makes the process faster and less expensive. If there are disagreements about property, children, or support, the case may need mediation or a court hearing. The judge or commissioner then enters the final Decree of Dissolution once all issues are resolved.
Cases with children require a parenting plan. Both parents must also attend a parenting seminar approved by Pierce County before the case can be finalized. Child support follows state guidelines under RCW 26.09.187.
Getting Copies of Records
After a Frederickson dissolution of marriage case is finalized, the decree is a public record at the Pierce County Superior Court Clerk's office. You can get copies in person in Tacoma, by mail, or through the LINX online system for cases after 1991. Before 1991, you must request copies directly from the clerk.
The Pierce County Clerk's office handles records for all Superior Court cases, including dissolution decrees, property settlement agreements, and parenting plans. Certified copies are the ones courts and agencies accept for legal purposes. Non-certified copies work for personal reference. Mail requests take about seven working days.
Pierce County's marriage and divorce records page explains how to find dissolution cases, request copies, and understand what documents the clerk's office holds.
Legal Help in Frederickson
Frederickson residents have access to several legal aid resources for dissolution of marriage cases. Some organizations serve low-income residents for free. Others offer consultations at reduced rates. Getting help with your paperwork can prevent costly mistakes later.
Northwest Justice Project covers Pierce County and handles family law matters for qualifying residents. Call (888) 201-1014 or check nwjustice.org for eligibility and services. WashingtonLawHelp at washingtonlawhelp.org offers self-help guides and explanations of the dissolution process in plain language.
For attorney referrals, contact the Washington State Bar Association at (206) 443-9722 or search online at wsba.org. All official court forms, including the petition, summons, and parenting plan, are free at courts.wa.gov/forms.
Pierce County Dissolution Records
Frederickson is in Pierce County, and all dissolution of marriage filings go through the Pierce County Superior Court in Tacoma. The county court manages cases for Frederickson and many other communities throughout Pierce County. For more on the county court and filing procedures, visit the Pierce County dissolution records page.
Nearby Cities
These nearby cities also file dissolution cases through Pierce County Superior Court.