The clerk will assist you with forms and general information about the process. The clerk is not allowed to give legal advice. Service of the claim form can be accomplished by any of the following:
- The Sheriff's Office;
- A process server;
- Any person of legal age (18) who is not connected with the case either as a witness or as a party; or
- By mailing the copies to the defendant by registered or certified mail with a return receipt requested.
The
Notice of Small Claim must be served on the defendant not less than ten (10) days before the first hearing. A return of service, or mail return receipt bearing the defendant's signature, must be filed at or before the time of the first hearing. You cannot personally serve the claim. See RCW Chapters
4.28 and
12.40, and
CRLJ 5 for more detailed information.