Dependency Court offered by King County Superior Court at Family Court Services in Seattle
Generally, the government does not interfere in family law matters. However, the law (RCW Chapter 13.34) allows the state to step in and protect a minor from harm in a procedure known as a dependency action. The court determines the safety issues of the case and where the minor should reside, with the parents, family members, foster home, etc.
Physical Address
516 3rd Avenue, King County Courthouse, #W-280, Seattle, WA 98104
Hours
Office: M-F, 8:30am-noon, 1-4:30pm.
Voice
Application process
Begins when a petition (a written request) is filed in Superior or Juvenile Court. Call for more information.
Fee
None for minor. Parents may screen with Department of Public Defense to see if they qualify for an attorney.
Eligibility
The petition must allege that the minor, a youth under age 18, is “dependent” based on one of the following: Abandoned by minor’s parent, guardian or other custodian; Abused or neglected by a person legally responsible for minor’s care; No parent, guardian or custodian capable of providing adequate care; Minor was trafficked and parent was involved in or should have known about the trafficking
Languages
Interpreter services
Service area
King, WA
Agency info
King County Superior Court's Family Court Services
Provides mediation, domestic violence assessment and evaluation services to divorcing or separating families for the purpose of developing plans to serve the children's best interest. Also facilitates independent adoptions. Provides case management for complex and high risk cases through Unified Family Court.