Adams County, WA Courts and Public Records
- Arrest Records
- Judgments
- Bankruptcies
- DUIs & DWIs
- Felonies
- Warrants
- Jail Records
- Lien Records
- Sex Offenses
- Misdemeanors
- Criminal Records
- Federal Dockets
The Adams County Superior Court is the county's general trial court. The County Clerk keeps the official court records for Adams County.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Court Name | Adams County Superior Court |
| Statewide Court Website | courts.wa.gov |
| Online Case Search | JIS-Link statewide case search, courts.wa.gov |
Local addresses, phone numbers and judicial officer details for Adams County are not listed here. Confirm them through courts.wa.gov.
How to Search Adams County Court Records
Have the person's full name, the case number if you know it, and approximate dates ready before you search Adams County court records.
Online
Go to courts.wa.gov and open the statewide JIS-Link case search.
Search by name or case number to view case information.
Best for: Quick case lookups by name or number
In Person
Go to the Adams County Clerk's office to request court records.
Bring the case number and party names if you have them.
Best for: Records not available online
Contact the Clerk
Contact the Adams County Clerk's office to ask how to request records.
Ask which records the clerk can copy or send to you.
Confirm contact details at courts.wa.gov before you call.
Best for: Requests you cannot make in person
Search by Name on WashingtonCourts.org
Go to WashingtonCourts.org and enter a full name.
Search across record types without a case number.
Confirm results with the court, since they are not official court records.
Best for: Finding leads without a case number
Adams County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
Adams County courts handled an estimated 1,877 new cases in CY 2024 and disposed of an estimated 1,930. The estimate scales Washington statewide totals by the county's share of state population.
~1,877
Total filings in CY 2024
~1,930
Total dispositions in CY 2024
~1,877
Filings per judicial position (1 estimated positions)
~+1.4%
Change in total filings vs CY 2023
| Metric | CY 2024 | CY 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Filings | ~1,877 | ~1,851 | ~+1.4% |
| Total Dispositions | ~1,930 | ~1,851 | ~+4.3% |
| Criminal Filings | ~1,269 | ~1,243 | ~+2.1% |
| Civil Filings | ~502 | ~502 | ~+0.0% |
| Family Law Filings | ~85 | ~85 | ~+0.0% |
| Probate Filings | ~40 | ~40 | ~+0.0% |
| Mental Health Filings | ~26 | ~26 | ~+0.0% |
| Juvenile Filings | ~19 | ~19 | ~+0.0% |
| Authorized Judicial Positions | ~1 | ~1 | ~0.0% |
The largest category movement was in criminal filings. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Washington statewide figures scaled by Adams County's 0.26% share of the state population.
How Have Court Filings Changed in Adams County?
Estimated total filings in Adams County moved up over the last five years; dispositions are estimated at a similar level.
| Fiscal Year | Total Filings | Total Dispositions | YoY Filing Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| CY 2024 | ~1,877 | ~1,930 | ~+1.4% |
| CY 2023 | ~1,851 | ~1,851 | ~+1.5% |
| CY 2022 | ~1,824 | ~1,798 | ~+7.8% |
| CY 2021 | ~1,692 | ~1,718 | ~-3.0% |
| CY 2020 | ~1,745 | ~1,718 | ~-3.0% |
Estimated filings changed +7.6% between CY 2020 and CY 2024, from 1,745 to 1,877. The largest annual change was +7.8% in CY 2022. The latest change of +1.4% reflects statewide Washington trends. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Washington statewide figures scaled by Adams County's 0.26% share of the state population.
What Types of Cases Are Filed in Adams County?
Criminal cases are estimated to be the largest category in Adams County, at about 67.6% of filings in CY 2024.
| Case Type | Filings CY 2024 | Share of Total | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | ~1,269 | ~67.6% | ~+2.1% |
| Civil | ~502 | ~26.7% | ~+0.0% |
| Family law | ~85 | ~4.5% | ~+0.0% |
| Probate | ~40 | ~2.1% | ~+0.0% |
| Mental health | ~26 | ~1.4% | ~+0.0% |
| Juvenile | ~19 | ~1.0% | ~+0.0% |
Criminal cases are estimated as the fastest-growing category and civil cases as the fastest-falling. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Washington statewide figures scaled by Adams County's 0.26% share of the state population.
How Does Adams County Compare With Washington Overall?
Adams County is estimated to account for about 0.26% of the 710,000 cases filed in Washington courts in CY 2024.
| Metric | Adams County | Washington | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total filings | ~1,877 | 710,000 | ~0.26% of statewide filings |
| YoY change in filings | ~+1.4% | +1.4% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Filings per judicial position | ~1,877 | 1,775 | Estimated at the state level |
| Dispositions per judicial position equivalent | ~1,930 | 1,825 | Estimated at the state level |
| Criminal share of filings | ~67.6% | 67.6% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Civil share of filings | ~26.8% | 26.8% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Family law share of filings | ~4.5% | 4.5% | Same as state (estimate) |
These county values are estimates built from statewide Washington figures, so they track the state mix by design. Actual county dockets may differ. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: Washington statewide figures scaled by Adams County's 0.26% share of the state population.
Adams County Crime Statistics (2025)
These figures are Washington statewide totals as reported to the FBI, not counts for Adams County. Agency reporting may be incomplete, and county crime counts are not available here. Statewide violent and property crimes combined fell 20.1% from 2024 to 2025. In 2025, reporting agencies covered about 97.7% of Washington's population, so year-over-year changes can partly reflect which agencies reported.
22,798
Violent crimes, Washington statewide, 2025
157,507
Property crimes, Washington statewide, 2025 (includes arson)
284.9
Violent crime rate per 100K, Washington statewide, 2025 (population 8,001,020)
-20.1%
Change in total violent plus property crimes, Washington statewide, 2025 vs 2024 (180,305 vs 225,760)
| Offense | 2025 | Rate per 100K | 2024 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 234 | 2.9 | 304 | -23.0% |
| Rape | 3,120 | 39.0 | 3,212 | -2.9% |
| Robbery | 4,140 | 51.7 | 5,388 | -23.2% |
| Aggravated assault | 15,304 | 191.3 | 17,373 | -11.9% |
| Violent crimes total | 22,798 | 284.9 | 26,277 | -13.2% |
| Burglary | 24,862 | 310.7 | 32,152 | -22.7% |
| Larceny-theft | 111,515 | 1393.8 | 131,566 | -15.2% |
| Motor vehicle theft | 20,206 | 252.5 | 34,655 | -41.7% |
| Property crimes total | 157,507 | 1968.6 | 199,483 | -21.0% |
Rates use the Washington 2025 population of 8,001,020. County-level rates are not published, so this section does not compare Adams County with the state. The property crimes total includes arson, so it is larger than the sum of the property offenses listed above.
Adams County Courthouse Locations
Adams County court proceedings are held at the Adams County Superior Court. Check your notice or case paperwork to confirm the courthouse assigned to your case before you go.
| Courthouse | Address | Phone | Verified Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adams County Superior Court | 210 W. Broadway Avenue, Ritzville, WA 99169 | (509) 659-3271 | See location page |
Addresses and phone numbers come from public directory listings and may change, so confirm them with the clerk before you visit.
Which Court Handles Your Case in Adams County?
In Adams County, Washington, local matters are handled by the Superior Court of Adams County and by district or municipal courts for lower-level cases.
| Your Situation | Go To | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic ticket | District Court or municipal court serving Adams County | Traffic infractions are handled by the district court or the city municipal court where the ticket was issued. |
| Parking ticket | The city or agency that issued the ticket (municipal or district court) | Parking tickets are handled by the issuing city's municipal court or the district court. |
| Misdemeanor | District Court or municipal court in Adams County | Misdemeanors are heard in the courts of limited jurisdiction. |
| Felony | Superior Court of Adams County | Felony cases are heard in superior court. |
| DUI | District Court or municipal court in Adams County | DUI is commonly charged as a gross misdemeanor in a court of limited jurisdiction. |
| Domestic violence | District Court, municipal court, or Superior Court of Adams County | Criminal charges go to the limited-jurisdiction court or superior court by level; protection orders may be filed in either. |
| Civil lawsuit | Superior Court of Adams County | Civil lawsuits are filed with the county clerk in superior court. |
| Small claims | Small claims division of District Court, Adams County | Small claims are filed in the district court serving the area. |
| Eviction | Superior Court of Adams County | Eviction (unlawful detainer) cases are filed with the county clerk in superior court. |
| Divorce | Superior Court of Adams County | Divorce is filed with the county clerk in superior court. |
| Child custody or support | Superior Court of Adams County | Custody and support cases are handled in superior court. |
| Probate or estate | Superior Court of Adams County | Probate and estate matters are filed with the county clerk in superior court. |
| Juvenile case | Superior Court of Adams County, Juvenile Division | Juvenile matters are handled in superior court. |
| Appeal | Washington Court of Appeals or Supreme Court | Appeals go to the Court of Appeals, and some go directly to the Supreme Court. Federal matters go to the U.S. District Court. |
Are Adams County Court Records Public?
Generally yes. Court records in Adams County are open to the public, except records that are sealed or restricted by law or court order.
Public records
Most court case files are open for inspection unless a law, court rule or court order makes them confidential.
Restricted or confidential records
Sealed records and records made confidential by law or court order are not available to the public without authorization from the court.
Online access
The statewide JIS-Link case search at courts.wa.gov lets you look up case information online. Online results do not replace official records, and not every document is available online.
In-person access
Visit the Adams County Clerk's office to view or request records. Call ahead to confirm which division holds your case.
How to Search Adams County Court Records Online
You can look up case information for Adams County through Washington's statewide court record tools and the county clerk.
- Identify the case type, such as criminal, traffic, civil, or family.
- Choose the official portal: Find Court Records or the Odyssey Portal.
- Search by name or case number.
- Review the case details, hearing dates, and outcomes.
- Request documents that are not online from the clerk or court in Adams County.
| Case Type | Where to Search | What You'll Find | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | Odyssey Portal and Find Court Records | Superior court criminal case information in participating counties; limited-jurisdiction court cases use separate local or statewide search tools. | Not all counties use the Odyssey Portal; documents are typically available from the county clerk. |
| Traffic | Find Court Records | Traffic infraction cases are searched through the statewide record search or the local district or municipal court. | Not part of the superior court Odyssey Portal. |
| Civil | Odyssey Portal | Superior court civil case information in participating counties. | Anonymous users generally see case information but not documents; documents are available from the clerk. |
| Small claims | Find Court Records | District court small claims records are found through the statewide search or the local district court. | Not in the superior court portal; ask the district court for documents. |
| Family law | Odyssey Portal | Superior court family case information in participating counties. | Confidential and sealed records are not available, and documents usually require the clerk. |
| Probate | Odyssey Portal | Superior court probate case information in participating counties. | Document access varies by county; contact the Adams County clerk. |
| Juvenile | County Clerk, Superior Court of Adams County (restricted access) | Juvenile records are generally confidential. | Do not expect juvenile cases to appear in public online search. |
How to Pay Fines & Citations in Adams County
Payment options for Adams County fines and citations are not listed here, so contact the Adams County Clerk to confirm which methods are accepted.
Parking tickets are generally handled by the agency that issued them, not by the court.
Adams County Court Records FAQ
How do I search Adams County court records?
Use the statewide JIS-Link case search at courts.wa.gov by name or case number, or contact the Adams County Clerk for records that are not online.
Are Adams County court records public?
Generally yes. Most court records are open to the public, but sealed records and records restricted by law or court order are not available without authorization.
How do I find a criminal case in Adams County?
Search by name or case number in JIS-Link at courts.wa.gov, or ask the Adams County Clerk for help.
How do I find a court date in Adams County?
Check your ticket or notice, search the case in JIS-Link, or contact the Adams County Clerk's office.
How do I pay a traffic ticket in Adams County?
Payment options are not listed here, so contact the Adams County Clerk to confirm which methods are accepted.
How many cases are filed in Adams County each year?
County filing counts are not published here, so no annual figure is shown.
What is the most common type of case in Adams County?
Case type counts are not published here, so no most common category can be shown.
Is crime in Adams County rising or falling?
County crime counts are not available here. Statewide, reported violent crimes fell 13.2% to 22,798 in 2025 from 26,277 in 2024, and property crimes fell 21.0% to 157,507 from 199,483, as reported to the FBI. These are Washington statewide figures, and reporting coverage changed between years.
Courts in the County
Adams County Superior CourtMore Info
| Address: | 210 W Broadway Ave, Ritzville, WA, 99169 |
| Phone Number: | 509-659-3271 |
| Fax: | 509659-0118 |
| Website: | http://www.co.adams.wa.us/departments/superior_court/index.php |
Useful Links
- Welcome to Adams County, Washington - Official county site offering resources on various county services including court information, public records, and local administration.
- Washington Courts - Washington State's Judicial Information System - Comprehensive portal to Washington's court system offering access to court records, forms, and statewide legal resources.
- Adams County Superior Court - The official page for Adams County Superior Court containing general case information, court calendars, and contact details.
- Adams County District Court - Information and resources specific to the district court services, including small claims, traffic, and misdemeanor cases.
- Adams County Clerk - Provides access to court documents, filing procedures, and other resources for managing legal paperwork in Adams County.
- Adams County Probation Department - Offers comprehensive information on probation services, including supervising and aiding individuals on probation in Adams County.
- Adams County Sheriff's Office - Provides community safety information, law enforcement services, and connections to local legal and correctional resources.
- Washington State Bar Association - Statewide resource supporting Washington's legal professionals with links to legal aid, lawyer referrals, and public resources.
- Washington Law Help - Offers free legal information and resources for people in Washington seeking assistance on various civil legal issues.
- Washington State Office of Civil Legal Aid - Provides resources and aids the pursuit of accessible civil legal services to low-income populations in Washington State.
- Legal Voice - Nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring legal rights for women, offering resources and advocacy in Washington State.
- Northwest Justice Project - Provides high-quality legal assistance and advocacy to low-income individuals in Washington State on critical issues.
- Right to an Interpreter in Washington State's Courts - Details regarding the statutory right for non-English speakers to receive interpreter services in Washington's courts.
- The Ninth Circuit: Access to Court Services - Overview of the Ninth Circuit services, access to records, and additional judicial resources for the West Coast, including Washington.
- Municipal Research and Services Center - Washington Courts - Provides insight into the structure and functions of municipal and court services across Washington's jurisdictions.
- Revised Code of Washington (RCW) - State statutory law portal that offers comprehensive access to Washington's laws including legal codes relevant to court services.
- Washington Courts - Court Forms - Downloadable court forms for diverse legal proceedings in Washington State, which are essential resources for litigants and lawyers.
- Washington Courts - Search Case Records - Public portal for searching Washington State court case records, including access to case summaries, filings, and outcomes.
- American Civil Liberties Union of Washington - Advocacy and information hub for protecting the civil liberties of all people in Washington through legal and legislative channels.
- Adams County Juvenile Court Services - Resources and services offered to manage and rehabilitate juvenile offenders within the legal system of Adams County.
Table of Contents
- Adams County, Courts and Public Records
- How to Search Adams County Court Records
- Adams County Court Statistics (CY 2024)
- How Have Court Filings Changed in Adams County?
- What Types of Cases Are Filed in Adams County?
- How Does Adams County Compare With Washington Overall?
- Adams County Crime Statistics (2025)
- Adams County Courthouse Locations
- Which Court Handles Your Case in Adams County?
- Are Adams County Court Records Public?
- How to Search Adams County Court Records Online
- How to Pay Fines & Citations in Adams County
- Adams County Court Records FAQ
- Courts in the County
- Useful Links