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1. How do I obtain court records and copies of legal documents?

For court records of divorce, probate, criminal history, or civil lawsuits, contact The Franklin County Clerk's office at 509-545-3525. Records may be viewed at the Clerk's Office.

For certificates of marriage, contact the Franklin County Auditor's office at 509-545-3536. View the Franklin County Auditor page.

For birth or death certificates, contact the Benton /Franklin County Health Department at 509-547-9737 or 509-460-4200. Visit the Benton/Franklin Health District website.

2. When and where is my court appointment?

This information can be provided by your attorney. If you do not have an attorney, schedules for civil cases can be obtained from the Court Administration 509-736-3071. For criminal case schedules, contact the Prosecuting Attorney's Office at 509-545-3543.

3. Where do I file a civil case, such as divorce or small claims?

Divorce and civil lawsuits should be filed at the Franklin County Superior Court Clerk's Office. 509-545-3525.

Small claims matters are filed in District Court 509-545-3593.

4. I've been summoned for jury duty. What is my term of service? Where do I report? Can I be excused?

View the Juror Reporting page.

5. How do I get an attorney? Can I qualify for a public defender or other legal assistance?

Coordinated Legal Education, Advice and Referral System, "CLEAR" operates a lawyer referral service and provides information on community legal services. Services are provided for non-criminal, low-income/seniors, 60 and older, 888-201-1014, toll-free 888-201-9737, or TDD 888-387-7111.

6. How do I get married at the courthouse?

You must first obtain a marriage license from the Franklin County Auditor's office. View the Auditor page.

7. How do I restore Firearm Rights?

Petitioning the court for restoration of the right to possess a firearm is complicated. You should hire an attorney. An attorney can guide you through the process and help you do it correctly. If you choose to do this on your own, then you are responsible for knowing and following the law and complying with all the rules and procedures. Reinstatement of Firearms Rights is not possible in all cases. To see if you qualify, review the Revised Code of Washington (RCW 9.41.040 Unlawful possession of firearms Ownership, possession by certain persons, Restoration of right to possess, Penalties) or contact an attorney.

8. What is the phone number for Franklin County District Court?

The Franklin County District Court phone number is 509-545-3593. View the Franklin County District Court page.

9. What is the phone number for the Pasco Municipal Court?

The phone number for the Pasco Municipal Court is 509-545-3491. View the Pasco Municipal Court website.

10. How do I contact other Franklin County government agencies?

View the Franklin County Contact Directory.

11. What are the Myths and Misperceptions About the Washington Courts?

In this short video, Misperceptions about the Washington Courts, Washington State court officials address commonly misunderstood topics about the court system. The video was produced by the Board for Judicial Administration (BJA) Public Trust and Confidence Committee and TVW.