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Dependency Court offered by King County Superior Court at Family Court Services in Seattle

516 3rd Avenue, King County Courthouse, #W-280, Seattle, WA 98104

Located downtown Seattle in Pioneer Square, between 3rd & 4th Ave and between Jefferson & James Streets. Call King County Metro at (206) 553-3000 or visit http://tripplanner.kingcounty.gov/ for public transit information.

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
Office: M-F, 8:30am-noon, 1-4:30pm.
https://kingcounty.gov/en/court/superior-court/courts-jails-legal-system/court-programs-children-families/dependency-courtdata=ZTkzLdwubL0yN7GFwEj%2F9QTLf77%2FB2yscjccOlCcabQ%3D&reserved=0
[email protected]

Interpreter services

Begins when a petition (a written request) is filed in Superior or Juvenile Court.  Call for more information.

None for minor.  Parents may screen with Department of Public Defense to see if they qualify for an attorney.

King, WA

Description

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.

Providing organization

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.