Evictions (writs of restitution)
Due to unit staffing shortages coupled with the hazardous nature of the orders we're receiving, we need approximately 50 days to serve and enforce the writ. Extension language in the writ or an order allowing us additional time, will be necessary. Writs returnable to court within 10 or 20 days of issuance, will likely not be enforced.
An eviction (Writ of Restitution) involves a tenant being ordered by the court to leave a residence. The court follows the tenant-landlord act of the State of Washington. More information about these laws can be found at the Revised Code of Washington RCW 59.12, RCW 59.18, and RCW 59.20.
After obtaining a court order to evict a tenant, a landlord wishing to pursue an eviction should fill out the Eviction Data Form, Adobe required (alternate version) before contacting the Civil Unit for processing. Additionally, please provide our office with all items listed on the Writ of Restitution Intake Sheet. Detectives will serve the tenant or post a residence with a writ of restitution or court order. If the tenant has not moved by the date on the writ of restitution or court order, the detectives will assist the landlord in evicting the tenant. The detectives' assistance will include enforcing the court order and ensuring the peace. The advance fee for service of the writ includes one hour of the detective's time at the eviction. If you anticipate the eviction may require additional time, you must notify the assigned detective in advance and additional fees may apply. The landlord is responsible for providing the moving crew and all other needed items. Landlords are encouraged to contact the detective prior to the physical eviction. There are some exceptions which can be found under the RCW links above. Additional information can be found in the Procedures for Writs of Restitution.
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After obtaining a court order to evict a tenant, a landlord wishing to pursue an eviction should fill out |
Formulario de información de desahucio obligatorio del sheriff |
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Additionally, please provide our office with all items listed |
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Additional information |
Oficina del sheriff del condado de King |
Related Information
Washington Administrative Code
Revised Code ofWashington
King CountySuperior Court
Landlord/Tenant Act
Fees charged
ALERT: Mileage rate increase for 2023
Click on this link for fees effective February 1, 2023. Updated fees for restitutions in Seattle metro and elsewhere in King County found by clicking here.
Fees are payable in advance. Acceptable methods of payment are cash, check, or money order. Check or money order should be made payable to "King County Sheriff." At this time, we cannot accept credit, debit cards or 2nd party checks.
Contact or visit us at :
King County Courthouse
516 Third Avenue, Room W-150
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: (206) 263-2600
Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. In-person assistance available 10:00am to 2:00pm.