Seattle Small Claims Court: Where and How to File

Which court

Small claims go through King County District Court, and you can hand in a claim at any of its locations. Its location list puts Seattle at the downtown courthouse but North Seattle in the Shoreline area, so check before you go. Not every claim belongs in King County; venue usually follows where the defendant lives or can be served (RCW 3.66.040).

Where and how to file

Limit	$10,000
Court	King County District Court, West Division (Seattle)
Address	King County Courthouse, 516 Third Ave., Room E-327, Seattle, WA 98104
Phone	206-205-9200
File online	King County District Court e-Filing portal, https://kcdc-efiling.kingcounty.gov/ecourt/
Fees	$50 to file. You can ask for a waiver by filing a Motion and Declaration for Waiver of Civil Fees and Surcharges with your claim, in person or by mail.
Serving papers	Someone 18 or older who is not you, a party or a witness must serve the papers: law enforcement, a process server or another adult. Certified or registered mail with a signed return receipt also works. Finish at least 10 business days before the first hearing and file proof before the pretrial hearing.

King County District Court, West Division (Seattle) small claims page

Good to know here

The limit is $10,000 for individuals but $5,000 for businesses.
Mediation is required before trial. It is free and runs online or by phone through the Dispute Resolution Center of King County.
Appearing in person at the pretrial hearing is mandatory.
Exchange evidence with the other party 14 days ahead, but do not file it with the court. Bring it to trial.
Appeal rights are narrow: you have 30 days, and the appeal requires a bond of twice the judgment, which the court cannot waive.

Hours, fees and locations change. Call the court or check its site before you go.

Seattle Small Claims Court

Where and how to file

Good to know here

Sources

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