Ordering CD's

When the Clerk's Office prepares a CD of a hearing, the default format is in FTR ("For the Record") format. The FTR player is required to listen to CDs prepared in this format, which will be provided to you on the CD along with instructions. FTR format is also known as "transcription" format. If you are submitting your CD to a transcriber, be sure to request this format. This is the recommended format.

For listening to a CD on a personal listening device, such as a CD player, we can prepare your recording in .WAV format. Be sure to clearly mark which format you are requesting on the CD Request Form (link).

You'll need to view the court minutes for required information related to the hearing you wish to have copied. They are usually available by checking the case file within two business days after the hearing.  Please refer to our Court Records website for instructions on how to view documents in a case file.

You may submit your request by mail or in person. If you submit by mail, please include a padded envelope for your CD and the following fees:

• $25.00 for each CD. Each CD holds approximately 73 minutes of audio time.
• $3.00 postage and handling (if requesting your CD by mail).
• $30.00 Research Fee (The research fee applies if you do not provide the required hearing information including the start and end times, courtroom number, date and judge information).

Be sure to complete the name and address information on the request form to contact you should we have questions regarding your request.

We accept payment by cash and check. Only checks drawn on a Washington State bank with the name and address of the payer imprinted on it will be accepted. If you do not have a Washington State bank account, you may send a Cashier's Check or Money order in U.S. Funds.

NOTE: Your order will be processed (on a first-come, first-served basis) as soon as possible, and you will be contacted when it is ready to be picked up. If you choose to wait for your CD to be recorded, please be prepared to wait for approximately one hour.

If you have further questions or if you are inquiring about a request already initiated, for Seattle requests please contact the Clerk by email at DJA.CopyCenter@kingcounty.gov for Kent requests at (206) 205-8412 and Juvenile requests at (206) 296-1140.