Kennewick Dissolution Of Marriage Records
Kennewick dissolution of marriage cases are filed and maintained through the Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Court, which serves Benton County residents including those in Kennewick. Whether you are searching for an existing case, requesting a copy of a dissolution decree, or filing a new petition, the Superior Court clerk's office is your starting point. Kennewick is the county seat of Benton County and the courthouse is located within the city, making it convenient to visit in person for records requests and filings.
Kennewick Overview
Where to File for Dissolution in Kennewick
Kennewick residents file for dissolution of marriage at the Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Court. This court serves both Benton and Franklin Counties as a shared superior court. It hears all civil cases, felony prosecutions, and family law matters including dissolution, custody, and child support. The courthouse is located in Kennewick, which makes it easy to file in person or drop off documents.
The Benton County Superior Court handles family law cases under Washington State law. This includes divorce, parenting plans, property division, and spousal support. District Court and municipal courts in Kennewick handle traffic violations, misdemeanors, and other limited-jurisdiction matters. They do not have authority to grant a dissolution of marriage. You must file at Superior Court.
| Office | Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 7122 W. Okanogan Place, Suite A130 Kennewick, WA 99336 |
| Phone | (509) 736-3071 |
| Website | bentonwa.org/Court_Records |
The courthouse is in west Kennewick. Parking is available on site. Bring a valid photo ID when you visit. The clerk's office can help you file documents, look up case information, and make copies of dissolution records.
How to Search Kennewick Dissolution Records
You can search for Kennewick dissolution of marriage records online using the statewide portal at odysseyportal.courts.wa.gov. This system covers Benton County and many other Washington counties. You can search by party name or case number and see docket entries and case status. It is the fastest way to find basic information about a dissolution case.
The City of Kennewick's public records page covers how to submit records requests for city-held information. For dissolution records, the Benton County Superior Court Clerk is the right office to contact.
For older records not available online, contact the Benton County Superior Court Clerk directly. Staff can look up cases by name or case number and make copies from the file. The Washington State Digital Archives at digitalarchives.wa.gov also holds historical court records from Benton County that predate the online systems.
Benton County's court records page provides information on how to access Superior Court case files, what records are available, and how to submit a request.
Filing Fees in Kennewick
Dissolution of marriage filing fees in Kennewick are set by Benton County under Washington State law. The current fee is approximately $320. This covers the initial petition filing and includes required statutory surcharges. Fees can change, so confirm the current amount with the clerk before you file.
Certified copies of dissolution decrees cost $5 for the first page and $1 for each additional page. You need a certified copy for legal purposes, such as changing your name, updating identification, or applying for remarriage. Non-certified copies are cheaper and work for personal use. Additional costs include service of process, which ranges from $40 to $100 depending on method.
If the filing fee is a financial burden, you can ask the court to waive it. Submit a motion and declaration describing your financial situation. People who receive public assistance or have income below 200% of the federal poverty level generally qualify. Fee waiver forms are at the courthouse and at courts.wa.gov/forms.
Benton County's court records page has information on copy fees, how to request documents, and what to expect when making a records request in person or by mail.
The Dissolution Process
Kennewick 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 show that either spouse did something wrong. Under RCW 26.09.030, either spouse must be a Washington resident or a military member stationed in the state at the time of filing.
The process starts when one spouse files a Petition for Dissolution and a Summons at Benton County Superior Court. The other spouse must be served with those documents. If both parties agree on all terms, they can file an agreed decree and the case typically moves faster. Contested cases may go through mediation or require hearings before a judge. Washington law requires a 90-day waiting period after the petition is filed and served before the court can finalize the dissolution.
Washington is a community property state. Assets and debts acquired during the marriage are generally divided equally unless the parties agree otherwise. Separate property, meaning assets owned before the marriage or received as gifts or inheritance, usually stays with the original owner. The court applies what is just and equitable in contested cases involving property.
If children are part of the case, a parenting plan is required. Benton County requires both parents to attend a parenting seminar before the court finalizes the dissolution. Child support is calculated using state guidelines under RCW 26.09.187.
Getting Copies of Records
Once a Kennewick dissolution case is final, the decree is a public record at the Benton County Superior Court Clerk's office. You can get copies by visiting the courthouse in Kennewick, sending a written mail request, or using the online case access system. Bring the case number if you have it to speed things up.
The Washington State Department of Health issues divorce certificates, which are summary documents showing that a dissolution happened. A certificate does not contain all the case details but works for basic proof of dissolution. Order one through the DOH vital records office at doh.wa.gov. For the full decree or a certified copy with all terms, go to the Superior Court Clerk.
Legal Help in Kennewick
Several resources exist for Kennewick residents who need help with a dissolution of marriage case. Legal aid organizations cover the Tri-Cities area. Attorney referral services can connect you with a qualified family law lawyer. Getting help early is worth it, especially in cases with children, significant property, or disagreements between spouses.
Northwest Justice Project serves eastern Washington including Benton County. Call (888) 201-1014 to ask about eligibility and services, or visit nwjustice.org. WashingtonLawHelp at washingtonlawhelp.org has step-by-step guides for people managing their own dissolution without an attorney.
The Washington State Bar Association provides a lawyer referral service at (206) 443-9722. Search for Kennewick-area attorneys at wsba.org. All dissolution-related court forms are free at courts.wa.gov/forms. You can also reach the Benton County Superior Court Clerk at (509) 736-3071 with questions about filing procedures.
Benton County Dissolution Records
Kennewick is in Benton County, and all dissolution of marriage filings go through the Benton and Franklin Counties Superior Court. The court handles cases for Kennewick and the rest of Benton County. For more information about the county court system and local resources, visit the Benton County dissolution records page.
Nearby Cities
These Tri-Cities communities are close to Kennewick and file dissolution cases through local county courts.