Washington County Court Records

Washington County court records are essential documents that provide a detailed account of the proceedings and decisions made within the local courts. It contains comprehensive details, including the names of the parties involved, a unique case number, and the nature of the case, whether it pertains to criminal matters, family disputes, or other legal issues. Also, these records document the events of court hearings, including key rulings and judgments issued by the presiding judge.

One of the most vital aspects of Wisconsin court records, including those from Washington County, is the final verdicts issued by the court, which capture the judge's rulings and any orders given during the case. These records also house essential documents filed by the parties involved, such as complaints or responses, and may sometimes include evidence presented during the trial, such as photographs or documents.

Are Court Records Public in Washington County?

Yes, the public can access most court records in Washington County. This is supported by Wisconsin Statute § 59.20(3), underscoring the general principle of public access to court records. Additionally, Washington County public records are accessible, subject to specific protections for sensitive information. Wisconsin Statutes §§ 801.19 to 801.21 detail these protections, covering aspects such as social security numbers, drivers license number, passport numbers, employers and tax ID numbers, and financial account details. Also, these statutes provide procedures for sealing records to protect such sensitive information.

Washington County Court Records Search

Individuals can search for court records in Washington County through various methods. The most convenient option is the online case search feature on the Wisconsin Court System website. This tool allows users to search for court records by name, case number, county name (Washington County), or other criteria.

Alternatively, individuals can visit the Clerk’s Office at the Washington County Courthouse to request records in person or send written requests to the courthouse clerks, including pertinent details such as case numbers or party names.

Washington County Court Records Search by Name

Anyone who wants to perform a name-based search for court records in Washington County must first identify the type of court involved. For Circuit Court records, which encompass civil, criminal, family, probate, and small claims cases, the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system is the primary resource where individuals can search by name, inputting the relevant details. This search is free, with options to refine the results by case type, county, and date range. If certified copies are needed, they can be obtained directly from the Circuit Court Clerk’s office for a fee.

For Municipal Court records, which address local ordinance violations and minor offenses, one must contact the specific Municipal Court directly, as these records are unavailable through the WCCA system.

Washington County Courts

Washington County has multiple courts within its jurisdiction. The addresses for these courts are listed below.

Washington County Circuit Court
Washington County Justice Center
484 Rolfs Avenue Room 3151
West Bend, WI 53090
Phone: (262) 335-4341

Municipal Courts
Mid-Moraine Municipal Court
962 West Paradise Drive
West Bend, WI 53095
Phone: (262) 334-5700

Washington County Superior Court Case Search

Washington County does not have a "Superior Court"; instead, the primary trial court is the Washington County Circuit Court. This court handles cases, including criminal cases (such as felonies and misdemeanors), civil disputes (like contract issues, property disputes, and personal injury claims), family law matters (including divorce, child custody, and support), probate cases (wills and estates), and juvenile matters.

Residents looking to search for case information can utilize the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) online database. This portal, part of the state's Consolidated Court Automation Programs (CCAP), provides public access to circuit court records across Wisconsin. On the website, users can search for case information using various criteria such as case number, party name, or business name. The search results will offer details like case status, court dates, and a summary of the proceedings. To refine the search, one can apply filters based on county, case type, or filing date, ensuring that the most relevant information is found.

On the other hand, individuals seeking court records should go to the Washington County Circuit Court Clerk’s office in person. Located within the Washington County Courthouse, the office staff can assist with requests and offer access to physical files.

Washington County District Court Records

Cases are managed by the Circuit Court, as there is no District Court or equivalent in Washington County. As mentioned above, the Circuit Court handles various cases, including criminal, civil, family law, probate, juvenile, and traffic matters. To access court records for the Washington County Circuit Court, individuals should use the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) online portal. This website allows users to search for case records by inputting information such as case number, party name, or attorney details. The system provides access to case statuses, court dates, and other pertinent information. Alternatively, individuals can visit the Washington County Circuit Court Clerk’s office directly to access physical case files.

Washington County Criminal Records

The Washington County Sheriff's Office primarily manages criminal records in Washington County. Individuals can visit the Sheriff's Office to make an open record request or by mailing the request to the address below.

Washington County Sheriff's Office
Attention: Records
P.O. Box 1986
West Bend, WI 53095

When requesting Washington County criminal records, it is important to provide specific details, such as the individual's name and date of birth, to help locate the records. Requesters may need to present valid identification or complete a release form, particularly if the records are for someone other than themselves. Also, fees may apply for obtaining records.

The types of records available from the Sheriff's Office include Washington County arrest records, which detail arrests and bookings, and incident reports, which document specific incidents and investigations.

Washington County Criminal Court Case Lookup

Requesters can access criminal court case information in Washington County through the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) online system, which provides public details for all circuit courts in the state, including Washington County or by visiting the courthouse in person for direct access to case files from the Clerk of Courts' office.

Get Washington County Civil Court Records

Civil court records in Washington County cover cases involving disputes between individuals, businesses, or organizations that do not include criminal charges. These records can include personal injury cases, contract disputes, family law matters such as divorce and custody, and property disputes. To view these records, individuals can use the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) online system, which offers public access to case details for circuit courts across the state, including Washington County.

Individuals seeking more detailed information can contact the Washington County Clerk of Courts either by phone or in person. The Clerk of Courts' office is responsible for maintaining and providing access to civil court records and can assist with locating and obtaining copies of these records.

Washington County Family Court Records

Family law cases are handled by the Circuit Court rather than a specialized family court in Washington County. This court deals with a range of family-related issues, including divorce, legal separation, child custody and support, paternity disputes, adoption, and domestic violence cases. These proceedings address important matters such as the division of marital assets, parental rights and responsibilities, and legal protections for individuals and children.

Family court records in Washington County can be obtained by reaching out to the Clerk of Circuit Court’s office, either in person or through the Wisconsin Court System’s website. For records that are not available online, a written request detailing the case information may be required.

Washington Dissolution of Marriage Records

Individuals can access dissolution of marriage records by visiting the Clerk of Court's office at the Washington County Courthouse in West Bend. Records can be requested in person by providing the names of the parties and the date of the dissolution, with applicable fees for copies. Online access is available through the Wisconsin Court System’s website, and requests can be made by mail by sending a written request and fee. Alternatively, third-party services may provide access to dissolution of marriage records.

Washington County Marriage and Divorce Records

Washington County marriage records and divorce records, which are categorized as Washington County vital records, are managed by two offices: the Register of Deeds - Vital Records and the Washington County Clerk of Circuit Court. These records contain crucial information, including the names of the individuals involved and the dates of the marriage or divorce.

Individuals can obtain Washington County marriage certificates through the methods explained below:

In-Person: They can visit the Washington County Register of Deeds office at

432 East Washington Street
Suite 3027, West Bend, WI 53095

By Mail: Requesters can submit a completed application form along with the required fee to the Register of Deeds office.

Online: They can also request records using the online service available on the website.

Individuals can access divorce records through the following methods:

In-Person: Visit the Clerk of Circuit Court office

By Mail: Send a written request along with the necessary fee to the Clerk of Circuit Court office.

Online: Use the Wisconsin Court System’s case search tool to locate the record.

Additionally, individuals can request divorce certificates from the Register of Deeds - Vital Records through in-person visits, mail, or online requests and by filling out the application form.

Washington Birth and Death Records

The Register of Deeds Office is responsible for maintaining and issuing Washington County birth and death certificates. To request records, individuals can visit the Register of Deeds Office in person at their office or by mail (Washington County birth certificate and death certificate forms are available on the Washington County website or can be obtained directly from the office). Then, individuals will send the completed forms, along with the required fees, to the Register of Deeds Office. Currently, online ordering for vital records is not directly available through Washington County, though third-party services offer online request options.

When requesting records, individuals must provide specific information, including the full name of the person on the record, the date and place of birth or death, their relationship to the individual, and a valid ID for identity verification. Fees for processing the request can be found on the Register of Deeds website.

Birth and death records are regulated to ensure privacy protection. Generally, Washington County birth records are restricted to the individual named, their immediate family members, or legal representatives, with those under 75 years old requiring proof of relationship. While death records are usually more accessible, very recent ones may have additional restrictions. Requesters are required to provide proof of identity when obtaining these records.

Birth and death certificates are crucial for verifying identity, managing estates, and obtaining legal documents.

Washington County Probate Court Records

The Washington County Probate Court, as part of the Clerk of Courts Office, handles various cases under the supervision of the Register in Probate, a role appointed by the county judges. This office manages cases such as Adult Adoption, Probate for estate administration, Guardianships for adults and minors' estates, Adult Civil Commitments, Juvenile Civil Commitments, and Wills. Additionally, the court oversees Group Probate, which involves multiple related probate matters.

Individuals seeking probate court records in Washington County can access certain records online through the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system by searching with case numbers or party names. For more specific requests or physical copies, they may visit the Register in Probate Office in person or submit a written request by mail to the Washington County Justice Center.

Washington County Property Records

Individuals can access property records both online and in person. The county offers an online Land Records Portal where users can search for property details by owner name, address, or parcel number. This portal provides access to information such as ownership history, assessment values, and property tax records. On the other hand, the Washington County Register of Deeds Office allows individuals to view and obtain copies of property deeds, mortgages, and plat maps in person at their office.

Individuals should know they can also submit mail requests if they cannot access records online or in person. While some records can be viewed for free, obtaining official copies or conducting detailed searches may require a fee. Third-party services also offer access to Washington County property records, though they may charge for convenience.

Washington County Court Records Online

Washington County provides access to court records through third-party online resources, allowing users to search for case details, schedules, and outcomes from any location with internet access. This convenience eliminates the need to visit the courthouse in person and saves time, particularly for those needing information outside regular business hours.

Despite these advantages, using third-party sites comes with limitations. The accuracy and completeness of the information may not always be assured, and some platforms might charge fees for accessing specific documents. Additionally, the security of personal data can vary, making it crucial to choose reputable and secure websites. Users can visit the Wisconsincourtrecords.us for official court records and further information.