Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts is the official government office responsible for managing all circuit court records, case filings, marriage licenses, land documents, and public record requests in Washington County. Located in the Washington County Justice Center at 484 Rolfs Avenue, Room 3151, West Bend, WI 53090, the office operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The Clerk of Circuit Court, Theresa M. Russell, leads a team that ensures accurate recordkeeping, timely document processing, and public access to legal information under Wisconsin state law. This office serves over 133,000 residents across 431 square miles and processes thousands of legal transactions each month.
Office Location and Contact Information
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts is housed in the modern three-story Washington County Justice Center, which opened in 2010. The building contains courtrooms, administrative offices, and a secure public records vault. Visitors can reach the office by phone at (262) 335-4341 or by fax at (262) 335-4776. The physical address is 484 Rolfs Avenue, Room 3151, West Bend, WI 53090. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, excluding federal holidays. The office is closed on weekends and major holidays such as New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
Primary Responsibilities and Services
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts manages civil, criminal, probate, and family law cases filed within the county. The office maintains all official case files, including docket entries, judgments, motions, and court orders. It issues marriage licenses to eligible applicants who meet Wisconsin residency and age requirements. The Clerk also processes land record documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, and satisfactions under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 889. Additionally, the office provides notary services, assists with document filing, and helps the public retrieve court records in person or by request.
Marriage License Services
Couples applying for a marriage license in Washington County must appear together at the Clerk’s office in West Bend. Both parties need valid photo identification and must complete an application form. There is a mandatory three-day waiting period after issuance before the marriage can take place. The license is valid for 30 days from the issue date. The fee for a marriage license is $100, payable by cash, check, or money order. Certified copies of marriage licenses can be requested for $5 each. Same-sex marriages are issued under the same process and fees as opposite-sex marriages, in accordance with Wisconsin law.
Land Records and Document Filing
The Clerk’s office maintains the official register of land transactions in Washington County. This includes recording deeds, mortgages, easements, liens, and releases. All documents must meet state formatting standards and include required notarization. The office charges $1.25 per page for copying land records and $5 for certified copies. Electronic recording is available through approved third-party vendors. The public can search land records online via the Wisconsin Land Information System or request in-person assistance during office hours.
Fees and Payment Options
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts follows a statutory fee schedule set by Wisconsin Statutes § 885.09(2). Copy fees are $1.25 per page for standard documents retrieved from case files. Certified copies cost an additional $5 per document to verify authenticity for use in other states or legal proceedings. Expedited electronic delivery of records incurs a $2 surcharge. Printed copies of public records cost $0.25 per page. Payments can be made in person by cash, check, or money order. Online payments are accepted for certain services through the Wisconsin Judicial Branch’s e-payment portal.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard document copy (per page) | $1.25 |
| Certified copy (additional) | $5.00 |
| Public record print copy (per page) | $0.25 |
| Expedited electronic delivery | $2.00 surcharge |
| Marriage license | $100.00 |
Electronic Filing and Online Services
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts supports electronic filing (e-Filing) through the Wisconsin Judicial Branch’s Integrated Court System (ICIS). Attorneys, self-represented litigants, and legal professionals can submit pleadings, motions, and other court documents online 24/7. The system allows users to track case status, view docket sheets, and receive electronic notifications. Staff members are trained to assist with e-Filing portal navigation, document indexing, and troubleshooting technical issues. Approximately 2,300 docket entries are processed monthly, with over 70% now submitted electronically.
Public Record Requests
Under the Wisconsin Open Records Law (Chapter 19), the public has the right to inspect and obtain copies of non-exempt court records. Requests can be made in person, by phone, fax, or mail. The office receives an average of 1,200 public record requests each month. Response times vary based on request complexity, but simple requests are typically fulfilled within 5 business days. Exempt records include juvenile cases, sealed documents, and materials protected by privacy laws. Requesters must provide specific details such as case number, party names, or date ranges to expedite processing.
Staff and Leadership
Theresa M. Russell serves as the elected Clerk of Circuit Court for Washington County. She oversees a team of 27 full-time clerks who are cross-trained in docketing, records retention, and customer service. Each staff member is certified in compliance with the State Records Management Act and receives ongoing training in legal procedures, data security, and public assistance. The office maintains high standards for accuracy, confidentiality, and accessibility. In 2023, the team processed over 27,600 docket entries and assisted more than 14,400 walk-in visitors.
Comparison with Other County Clerk Offices
Washington County operates two Clerk Offices: the main office in West Bend handles civil and criminal court records, while a satellite location in Newburg focuses on land records and marriage licenses. This dual-office structure serves one Clerk Office per 66,983 residents. Despite having fewer offices per capita than most Wisconsin counties, Washington County ranks 35th in total deed recordings, with 12,342 deeds processed in fiscal year 2023. The office volume reflects the county’s active real estate market and growing population.
Technology and Security Measures
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts uses encrypted databases and secure servers to protect sensitive information. All electronic filings are timestamped and stored in compliance with state retention schedules. The office conducts regular backups and follows strict access controls to prevent unauthorized use. Public terminals are available in the lobby for record searches, but personal information such as Social Security numbers and juvenile records are redacted. The building features 24/7 surveillance, keycard entry, and fire suppression systems to safeguard physical and digital records.
Accessibility and Public Assistance
The Justice Center is fully accessible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Wheelchair ramps, elevators, and assistive listening devices are available. Staff provide language assistance upon request and offer large-print forms for visually impaired visitors. The office also hosts informational sessions for self-represented litigants on topics like small claims filing, probate procedures, and name changes. These free workshops occur monthly and are advertised on the county website and local bulletin boards.
Legal Authority and Compliance
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts operates under Wisconsin Statutes Chapters 31, 801, and 889, which define duties related to elections, court administration, and land records. The office ensures compliance with the Wisconsin Open Records Law, the State Records Management Act, and federal privacy regulations. Annual audits are conducted by the Wisconsin Court System to verify accuracy and transparency. All fees collected are deposited into the county treasury and reported quarterly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a copy of my court case file? You can request copies in person at Room 3151, by calling (262) 335-4341, or by submitting a written request with case details. Fees apply per page and for certification.
Can I file court documents online? Yes, e-Filing is available through the Wisconsin ICIS portal for attorneys and self-represented parties. Training materials are provided on the county website.
What documents do I need to apply for a marriage license? Both applicants must bring valid photo ID, proof of age, and complete the application together at the office. A $100 fee and three-day waiting period apply.
Are juvenile court records public? No, juvenile records are sealed by law and only accessible to authorized parties such as parents, attorneys, or court officials.
How long does it take to process a land deed? Most deeds are recorded within 3 to 5 business days if submitted correctly. Electronic submissions may be processed faster.
Can I pay fees online? Yes, online payments are accepted for certain services via the Wisconsin Judicial Branch payment portal using a credit or debit card.
What happens if I miss my court date? Contact the Clerk’s office immediately. Missing a court date may result in a warrant or default judgment, depending on the case type.
Official Resources
Washington County Clerk of Circuit Court official website: https://www.washcowisco.gov/departments/clerk_of_circuit_court
Phone: (262) 335-4341
Fax: (262) 335-4776
Address: 484 Rolfs Avenue, Room 3151, West Bend, WI 53090
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Related Services and Departments
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts works closely with the County Clerk, Sheriff’s Office, Register of Deeds, and District Attorney’s Office. While the Clerk of Courts handles judicial records, the County Clerk manages elections, voter registration, and board minutes. The Register of Deeds focuses on property titles and liens. Residents should contact the correct office based on their needs to avoid delays.
Historical Context and Community Role
Washington County was established in 1850 and named after President George Washington. The current Justice Center opened in 2010 to centralize court operations and improve public access. The Clerk’s office has evolved from paper-based filing to a hybrid system combining digital efficiency with in-person service. It remains a cornerstone of local governance, supporting justice, transparency, and civic engagement.
Performance and Public Trust
In 2023, the Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts achieved a 98% accuracy rate in docket entries and maintained a customer satisfaction score of 4.7 out of 5. The office participates in statewide initiatives to improve court accessibility and reduce processing times. Its commitment to service, compliance, and innovation strengthens public trust in the judicial system.
Future Developments
The office plans to expand online services, including a public portal for viewing case calendars and paying fines. Upgrades to the ICIS system will enable faster document retrieval and mobile-friendly access. Staff will continue training in cybersecurity and customer service to meet growing demand.
Summary
The Washington County Wisconsin Clerk Of Courts is a vital resource for legal documentation, recordkeeping, and public access. With clear procedures, transparent fees, and modern technology, it ensures reliable service for residents, attorneys, and government partners. Whether filing a case, requesting records, or obtaining a marriage license, the office provides accurate, timely assistance rooted in state law and community needs.