Yes, warrants are public records in King County, Washington. Under the Washington State Public Records Act (RCW 42.56), these records are accessible to the public to ensure transparency and accountability within the judicial system. This act mandates that governmental agencies provide access to public records, including warrants, unless a specific exemption applies under RCW 42.56.230-42.56.480.
The availability of warrant records allows citizens to remain informed about legal actions and proceedings within their community. By providing access to such records, King County upholds the principles of openness and public oversight, which are foundational to the democratic process. Pursuant to Washington State law, members of the public may request access to warrant information through designated channels established by King County authorities.
Certain warrant information may be exempt from disclosure if it falls under specific statutory exemptions, such as those related to ongoing investigations (RCW 42.56.240) or where disclosure would endanger an individual's safety. The King County Sheriff's Office and court system maintain these records in accordance with state retention schedules.
Warrant records in King County typically include the following information:
These records are maintained by the King County Sheriff's Office Criminal Warrants Unit and the King County Court system in accordance with Washington State record retention requirements.
Free search options for warrant records in King County are available through several official channels. Individuals can utilize the following methods:
Pursuant to RCW 42.56.070, these public records must be made available for inspection and copying during normal business hours. Requestors may be required to provide identification when accessing certain warrant information in person.
Sheriff Warrants in King County are legal documents issued by a court that authorize law enforcement to perform specific actions, such as making an arrest. The King County Sheriff's Office Criminal Warrants Unit, located at 516 3rd Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, is responsible for enforcing court orders issued by the Superior Court.
These warrants contain critical information, including:
The Criminal Warrants Unit handles service of felony and civil arrest warrants, extradition of wanted persons, and coordination with other law enforcement agencies. As specified in RCW 10.31.030, warrants must be executed by peace officers who possess the warrant or have knowledge of its existence.
Members of the public seeking information about Sheriff's warrants may contact the King County Sheriff's Office Warrants Unit at 206-263-2130 during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM).
To determine if you have a warrant in King County in 2025, several official resources are available. Individuals can explore the following options to search for warrant records:
Pursuant to Washington Court Rule GR 31, court records are presumptively open to public access unless restricted by court rule, statute, or court order. Individuals with active warrants are encouraged to consult with legal counsel regarding appropriate steps to resolve the matter.
A search for Outstanding Warrants in King County is available through multiple official channels. Individuals can use the following methods to conduct their search:
Under RCW 10.31.100, law enforcement officers may arrest a person without a warrant in certain circumstances, including when the officer has probable cause to believe the person has committed a felony. However, most arrests require a valid warrant issued by a court of competent jurisdiction.
King County Sheriff's Office
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
206-296-4155
Official Website
King County District Court
516 3rd Avenue
Seattle, WA 98104
206-205-9200
Official Website