Chelan County Public Records /Chelan County Divorce Records

Chelan County Divorce Records

What Are Chelan County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Chelan County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) § 26.09.010, which governs dissolution of marriage proceedings in Washington State. Divorce records consist of various documents filed during divorce proceedings, including petitions, responses, financial declarations, parenting plans, and final decrees.

The Chelan County Superior Court maintains divorce records as part of its official court records. These documents serve multiple purposes:

Legal proof of marital status change
Documentation required for remarriage
Evidence for name change processes
Verification for Social Security benefits
Supporting documentation for loan applications
Required evidence for immigration matters
Historical and genealogical research

Divorce records in Chelan County are categorized into two main types:

Court case files - The complete set of documents filed during divorce proceedings
Divorce certificates - Official documents issued by the Washington State Department of Health certifying the dissolution of marriage

These records contain sensitive personal information and are subject to specific access regulations under Washington State law.

Are Chelan County Divorce Records Public?

Chelan County divorce records have a complex public access status that varies by document type. Pursuant to the Washington Public Records Act, RCW § 42.56, many government records are presumed public unless specifically exempted by law. However, divorce records fall under multiple regulations that affect their accessibility.

Court divorce case files in Chelan County are generally considered public records with important exceptions:

Financial declarations and sealed exhibits are not publicly accessible
Records containing information about minor children have restricted access
Documents sealed by court order remain confidential
Records containing Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal identifiers are redacted before public disclosure

Certified divorce certificates have more restricted access. Under Washington Administrative Code WAC 246-491-029, only the following individuals may obtain certified divorce certificates:

The parties named on the record
Legal representatives of the parties
Immediate family members
Government agencies for official purposes
Individuals with court orders authorizing access

Members of the public seeking divorce information must understand these distinctions when requesting records from Chelan County authorities.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Chelan County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Chelan County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The appropriate approach depends on the specific information needed and the requester's relationship to the parties involved.

For court case files, individuals may contact:

Chelan County Clerk's Office
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Chelan County Clerk

The process for obtaining court divorce records involves:

Completing a records request form specifying the case number or parties' names
Submitting the request in person, by mail, or through the court's online portal
Paying applicable search and copy fees ($0.50 per page for copies)
Presenting identification if requesting records in person
Allowing 5-10 business days for processing

For certified divorce certificates, requests must be directed to:

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

The certificate request process requires:

Completing the Certificate Order Form
Providing proof of identity and establishing eligibility to receive the record
Submitting the required fee ($25 per certificate)
Allowing 2-3 weeks for processing

Requesters should note that divorce records from 1968 to the present are maintained by the state, while earlier records may only be available through the county clerk.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Chelan County Online?

Chelan County provides digital access options for divorce records research, though complete records may require in-person follow-up. Online research methods vary based on the type of information sought and the time period of the divorce.

The primary online resources for Chelan County divorce records include:

Washington Courts Case Search Portal
This system allows users to search for divorce cases filed in Chelan County Superior Court.
- Visit the Washington Courts Search
- Select "Superior Court" and "Chelan County"
- Enter party names in the search fields
- Case types "Dissolution with Children" or "Dissolution without Children" indicate divorce cases
- Results provide case numbers, filing dates, and party names
- Full documents are not available online but can be requested using the case information
Washington State Digital Archives
For historical divorce records:
- Access the Washington State Digital Archives
- Select "Marriage Records" from the collections menu
- Choose "County Divorces" from the record series
- Enter search criteria including names and date ranges
- Results provide index information but not complete records
Washington State Department of Health Online Ordering
For certified divorce certificates:
- Visit the DOH Vital Records website
- Select "Order a Vital Record Online"
- Create an account and follow the prompts to order a divorce certificate
- Provide required identification and eligibility documentation
- Pay the $25 fee per certificate

Users should note that online systems primarily provide index information rather than complete records. Full document access typically requires submitting formal requests with appropriate fees.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Chelan County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Chelan County have limited but viable options. While obtaining certified copies or extensive documentation typically involves fees, basic information may be accessed without charge through several channels.

Free research methods include:

In-Person Inspection at the Courthouse
Public divorce case files may be viewed at no cost at:

Chelan County Superior Court
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6210
Chelan County Superior Court

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

Visitors must:
- Present photo identification
- Complete a records request form
- Wait for staff to retrieve files
- Note that while viewing is free, printing copies incurs fees ($0.50 per page)
Public Access Computers at County Law Library
The law library provides free access to court record databases:

Chelan County Law Library
350 Orondo Avenue, 2nd Floor
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)
Washington Courts Case Search
Basic case information is available without charge at Washington Courts Search, though document access is limited.
Public Library Resources
Local libraries may offer free access to genealogical databases containing divorce record indexes:

Wenatchee Public Library
310 Douglas Street
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 662-5021
North Central Regional Library

Researchers should be prepared to provide specific information about the divorce case, including approximate date and party names, to facilitate efficient searches.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Chelan County

Divorce records in Chelan County contain comprehensive documentation of marriage dissolution proceedings. The content varies based on the complexity of the case and whether children were involved. Pursuant to RCW § 26.09.020, divorce filings must include specific information and supporting documents.

A complete divorce case file typically contains:

Petition for Dissolution of Marriage - The initial filing that includes:
- Names and addresses of both parties
- Date and location of marriage
- Date of separation
- Grounds for divorce (Washington is a no-fault state)
- Information about minor children (if applicable)
- Property and debt division proposals
- Spousal maintenance requests (if any)
Response to Petition - The non-filing spouse's formal reply
Financial Declarations - Detailed statements of:
- Income from all sources
- Monthly expenses
- Assets and liabilities
- Tax returns (often attached as exhibits)
Parenting Plan (if children involved) - Outlining:
- Residential schedule
- Decision-making authority
- Transportation arrangements
- Dispute resolution methods
Child Support Worksheets - Calculations based on:
- Both parents' incomes
- Children's needs
- Healthcare and education expenses
Temporary Orders - Court directives during the pendency of the case
Final Divorce Decree - The court's final judgment containing:
- Marriage termination declaration
- Property and debt division
- Spousal maintenance terms (if awarded)
- Child custody and support provisions
- Name change authorization (if requested)
Certificate of Dissolution - The official vital record documenting the divorce

Certain sensitive information is protected from public disclosure, including Social Security numbers, financial account numbers, and children's identifying information, in accordance with GR 22 of the Washington Court Rules.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Chelan County?

Individuals requiring legal proof of divorce in Chelan County have multiple options for obtaining official documentation. The appropriate method depends on the intended use of the proof and the level of detail required.

For official proof of divorce, requesters may obtain:

Certified Copy of Divorce Decree
This document serves as comprehensive legal proof and contains all terms of the divorce.

Available from:

Chelan County Clerk's Office
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Chelan County Clerk

Process:
- Submit a written request including case number or names of parties
- Provide photo identification
- Pay the certification fee ($5 per document plus $0.50 per page)
- Allow 1-3 business days for processing
Certificate of Dissolution of Marriage
This concise document verifies the fact and date of divorce without detailed terms.

Available from:

Washington State Department of Health
Center for Health Statistics
P.O. Box 47814
Olympia, WA 98504-7814
(360) 236-4300
Washington State Department of Health

Process:
- Complete the Certificate Order Form
- Provide proof of identity and eligibility
- Submit $25 fee per certificate
- Allow 2-3 weeks for processing by mail (expedited options available)
Exemplified Copy of Divorce Decree
This specially authenticated version is required for use in other states or countries.

Available from the Chelan County Clerk's Office (address above)

Process:
- Request in writing specifying need for exemplification
- Pay additional exemplification fee ($6)
- Allow 3-5 business days for processing

Requesters should note that proof of identity is required for all methods, and access restrictions apply based on relationship to the parties named in the divorce.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Chelan County?

While divorce proceedings in Chelan County are generally matters of public record, Washington State law provides several mechanisms for maintaining confidentiality of sensitive information or, in limited circumstances, entire divorce cases. The level of confidentiality available depends on specific circumstances and judicial discretion.

Confidentiality options in Chelan County divorce cases include:

Sealing Specific Documents
Pursuant to GR 15 of the Washington Court Rules, parties may petition the court to seal particular documents containing:
- Financial account numbers
- Medical or mental health information
- Information about minor children
- Sensitive personal identifiers
The court applies a balancing test weighing privacy interests against the public's right to access.
Redaction of Sensitive Information
Even without sealing, certain information is automatically redacted from public versions of documents:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children (initials used instead)
Confidential Name Change
In cases involving domestic violence, stalking, or harassment, a party may request:
- Confidential name change under RCW § 4.24.130
- Sealing of documents revealing new identity
Complete Case Sealing
In extraordinary circumstances, the entire case may be sealed if:
- Compelling privacy interests exist
- No less restrictive alternative is available
- The sealing is as narrow as possible
This requires demonstrating that substantial harm would result from public access.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Parties may choose:
- Private mediation
- Collaborative divorce
- Arbitration
These processes keep negotiations confidential, though final decrees remain public records.

Parties seeking confidentiality must file appropriate motions with the Chelan County Superior Court. The court evaluates each request based on established legal standards, balancing privacy concerns against the presumption of public access to court records.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Chelan County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Chelan County varies significantly based on multiple factors. Washington State law establishes minimum timeframes, but the actual process length depends on case complexity and the level of agreement between parties.

Key factors affecting divorce timeline include:

Mandatory Waiting Period
Washington State imposes a 90-day waiting period from the date of filing and service before a divorce can be finalized, per RCW § 26.09.030. This represents the minimum possible timeframe.
Type of Divorce
Different approaches yield varying timelines:
- Uncontested divorces (full agreement): 3-4 months
- Contested divorces (partial disagreement): 6-12 months
- Highly contested divorces (significant conflict): 12-24+ months
Court Congestion
Chelan County Superior Court's current caseload affects scheduling:
- Motion hearings typically scheduled within 2-4 weeks
- Settlement conferences scheduled 4-6 months from request
- Trial dates set 8-12 months from case filing
Children and Property Considerations
Additional factors extending timelines:
- Cases involving minor children: Add 2-4 months for parenting plan development
- Complex property division: Add 3-6 months for appraisals and negotiations
- Business valuations: Add 4-8 months for expert analysis
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Mediation and collaboration can affect timing:
- Successful mediation may reduce timeline by 2-4 months
- Failed mediation may add 1-3 months to overall process

According to the Washington Courts Caseloads and Statistical Reports, the average time from filing to disposition for dissolution cases in Chelan County is approximately 8.7 months, though individual cases vary significantly.

Parties seeking expedited processing should consider:

Filing as an uncontested case with all agreements in place
Utilizing the county's early resolution program
Ensuring prompt response to all court deadlines and document requests

How Long Does Chelan County Keep Divorce Records?

Chelan County maintains divorce records according to Washington State's records retention schedules, which establish different preservation periods based on record type and historical significance. These retention periods ensure both legal access and historical preservation.

The retention schedule for divorce records includes:

Court Case Files
Chelan County Superior Court retains complete divorce case files according to the Judicial Records Retention Schedule:
- Cases filed after 1960: Permanent retention in county archives
- Cases with historical significance: Permanent retention with special designation
- After retention period at courthouse: Transfer to Washington State Archives, Eastern Regional Branch
Divorce Certificates
The Washington State Department of Health maintains:
- Certificates from 1968-present: Permanent retention
- Pre-1968 certificates: Maintained by county of filing
This retention is governed by WAC 246-490-070.
Divorce Indexes
Alphabetical or chronological listings:
- Court indexes: Permanent retention
- Department of Health indexes: Permanent retention
- Digital conversion for preservation and access
Microfilm/Digital Conversion
For preservation purposes:
- Many older records (pre-1990) converted to microfilm
- Recent conversion to digital formats
- Original paper records may be destroyed after quality-controlled conversion
Sealed Records
Records sealed by court order:
- Retained according to same schedule as unsealed records
- Maintained with restricted access protocols
- Subject to potential unsealing by future court order

Researchers seeking historical divorce records should note that while retention is permanent for most records, the physical location and format may change over time. The Washington State Archives, Eastern Regional Branch serves as the repository for older Chelan County court records that have been transferred from the courthouse.

How To Get a Divorce In Chelan County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Chelan County must follow Washington State's established legal process. Washington operates as a "no-fault" divorce state, meaning parties need not prove wrongdoing to obtain a dissolution of marriage.

The divorce process in Chelan County involves these steps:

Establish Eligibility
- Either spouse must be a Washington resident at time of filing
- No minimum residency period required
- File in Chelan County if either spouse resides there or both parties agree to venue
Prepare Initial Documents
- Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- Summons
- Confidential Information Form
- Vital Statistics Form
- Additional forms if children involved (parenting plan, child support worksheets)
Forms available from the Washington Courts Forms website
File Documents with Court

Chelan County Superior Court Clerk
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Chelan County Superior Court

Filing fees: $314 (fee waiver available for low-income individuals)
Serve Documents on Spouse
- Personal service by someone over 18 who is not a party to the case
- Alternative service methods available with court permission
- File proof of service with court
Wait for Response
- Spouse has 20-60 days to respond (depending on service location)
- If no response, request default judgment after waiting period
- If contested, proceed to temporary orders and discovery
Mandatory Waiting Period
- 90 days from filing and service before finalization
- Used for negotiation and settlement discussions
- Required even if both parties agree to all terms
Finalize Divorce
- Uncontested: Submit final orders for judge's signature
- Contested: Attend settlement conference and/or trial
- Judge signs Final Divorce Order and Decree of Dissolution
Post-Divorce Actions
- Implement property division
- Update estate planning documents
- Change name on identification and accounts if applicable

For assistance with the divorce process, Chelan County provides:

Chelan County Courthouse Facilitator
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Courthouse Facilitator Program

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Fee: $25 per 30-minute session

How To Get Divorce Papers In Chelan County

Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Chelan County have multiple options for obtaining the necessary legal forms. These documents must comply with Washington State requirements and local court rules.

The primary methods for obtaining divorce papers include:

Washington State Court Website
The official source for standardized state forms:
- Visit the Washington Courts Forms website
- Select "Dissolution (Divorce)" from the form categories
- Download forms in fillable PDF format
- Available forms include petitions, financial declarations, and parenting plans
- Instructions provided for each form
Chelan County Superior Court Clerk's Office
For in-person assistance:

Chelan County Clerk's Office
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Chelan County Clerk

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Basic form packets available for purchase ($5-20 depending on complexity)
- Staff cannot provide legal advice but can explain filing procedures
- Local forms specific to Chelan County available only at this location
Chelan County Law Library
For research and form access:

Chelan County Law Library
350 Orondo Avenue, 2nd Floor
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Reference materials explaining divorce procedures
- Computer access for downloading and printing forms
- Print fees apply ($0.15 per page)
Courthouse Facilitator Program
For assistance completing forms:

Chelan County Courthouse Facilitator
350 Orondo Avenue
Wenatchee, WA 98801
(509) 667-6380
Courthouse Facilitator Program

Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
- Appointment required ($25 per 30-minute session)
- Assistance with form selection and completion
- Review of documents before filing
- Available to both petitioners and respondents
Northwest Justice Project
For low-income individuals:
- Visit Washington Law Help
- Access free forms and instructional materials
- Available in multiple languages
- Includes video tutorials on form completion

Individuals should ensure they obtain the current version of all forms, as requirements change periodically. Most divorce filings require multiple documents, and the specific forms needed depend on the circumstances of the case, particularly whether minor children are involved.