Civil Process

The Civil Department is the civil and legal process service function of the Sheriff’s Department and covers a wide variety of court papers from subpoenas to small claims to orders executing the removal of renters for non-payment of rent. This Division also includes support staff that provides courthouse security.

For more information regarding the service of civil papers including fees, please call (360) 385-3831and ask for the Civil Division or directly at (360) 385-9390 . 

• Service of civil and criminal subpoenas and summons and complaints
• Service of other civil and criminal court documents
• Attaching, maintaining custody of and selling personal property
• Attaching and selling real property
• Executing court ordered evictions

Fees for Sheriff’s civil services are set by RCW and can be found under RCW 36.18.040.

How do I get the Sheriff’s Office to come and evict my tenant?

The Sheriff’s Office does not become involved in any evictions until you obtain the “Writ of Restitution”. There are several steps you must take prior to obtaining this document. They can be explained to you by your attorney. Another helpful resource is the pamphlet “Landlord/Tenant Laws” which is put out by the Office of the Attorney General and copies can be obtained through the Attorney General’s Office or the Sheriff’s Office.

Click here for a copy of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office pamphlet on the Landlord/Tenant Law.

How do I get a protection order?

If you are a victim of domestic violence, this information will help you decide if you need a court order for protection and explain how to get one. There are three types of court orders that can protect you depending on whether other legal proceedings have already been filed. You can get:

• An Order for Protection (whether or not a criminal charge or domestic relations case has been filed).
• A No Contact Order (if a criminal charge has been filed against the abuser).
• A Restraining Order (only if a domestic relations case, such as a divorce or child custody action has been filed).

Before you seek an order:

If you are attacked (physically assaulted), call 911 immediately.

The deputy must arrest the abuser if:

1. you are or were in a domestic relationship, and
2. the deputy must have reason to believe an assault occurred within the past four hours.

For further information contact Chief Civil Deputy at:

(360) 385-3831 extension 390 or directly at (360) 385-9390.