Detailed Answer

This answer explains, in plain language, how to find probate records for your father’s estate in Washington, how to spot missing or incorrect filings, and what steps you can take to ask the court to correct the record. This is educational information only and not legal advice.

1. Where probate records live and how to get them

• Probate matters in Washington are handled in the superior court for the county where the decedent lived. The superior court clerk keeps the official probate file (petitions, orders, inventories, accountings, notices, and other filings).
• Many counties provide online access to court dockets and documents. Washington’s public court case search is available at: https://dw.courts.wa.gov/. If you do not find documents online, contact the county superior court clerk’s office where probate was opened and ask for copies of the probate file.
• Court files are generally public records. See Washington’s public records laws at the Revised Code of Washington, Title 42: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/title42/.

2. What to look for when you review the file

When you review the probate docket and file, check for these key items:

• The probate petition or initial filing that opened the estate (often called petition for probate or administration).
• Letters testamentary or letters of administration showing who the court appointed as personal representative (executor/administrator).
• Notices to heirs and beneficiaries and the certificate of mailing or service that proves they were notified.
• An inventory and appraisal of estate property and any later accountings or final account filed by the personal representative.
• Orders, hearings minutes, and any amendments, corrections, or additional petitions.
• Claims filed by creditors and any rulings on those claims.

3. Common problems people find

• Required inventory or account not filed.
• Important documents not included in the court file (for example, a will that should be admitted but was never filed).
• Errors in dates, names, or asset amounts on filings.
• Failure to serve notices properly to heirs or creditors.

4. First practical step: try an informal resolution

Before filing anything with the court, contact the personal representative (or their attorney). Many issues—missing documents or clerical errors—are fixed quickly if the representative files the missing papers or files an amendment. Ask for copies and a short written confirmation of what they will file and when.

5. Court remedies if informal contact does not fix the problem

If the personal representative will not correct missing or incorrect filings, Washington law and court practice provide several remedies you can ask a court to grant. Typical court actions include:

• Request the court to compel the personal representative to file required documents (for example, an inventory or accounting). The court can enter an order requiring filing.
• File a motion or petition to correct the record or to admit a properly executed will that was not previously filed.
• File a petition asking the court to review the personal representative’s conduct. If the representative has breached duties, the court may order an accounting, surcharge the representative for losses, or remove the representative. Washington probate statutes and rules govern fiduciary duties and accounting requirements; general probate law is found in Washington’s probate statutes, Title 11 of the Revised Code of Washington: https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/title11/.
• Ask for temporary relief. If the matter involves dissipation of assets or an urgent problem, you can seek emergency or interim orders from the court.
• If a filing was incorrectly entered into the court record (clerical error), you can ask the court to amend or correct the record. Courts have inherent authority to correct clerical mistakes in judgments and orders.

6. How to start a court action

1. Identify the correct case number and county (get copies of the existing probate docket and filings).
2. Prepare a written pleading: typically a motion, petition, or notice of hearing that explains the problem and the relief you seek (for example, an order compelling an accounting, a petition to admit a will, a petition to remove the personal representative, or a motion to correct the record).
3. File the pleading with the superior court clerk and serve required parties (personal representative, attorney for the personal representative, all heirs and beneficiaries). Follow Washington court rules and local rules for service and notice requirements: https://www.courts.wa.gov/court_rules/.
4. Attend the hearing prepared to explain the facts and bring copies of supporting documents (proof of attempts to resolve the issue, copies of missing or corrected documents, correspondence, and any financial records you have).

7. Practical evidence and organization

Bring or submit documents that show the error or omission: copies of the original will (if one exists), proofs of service, account statements, lists of assets, and any correspondence showing attempts to resolve the issue. Clear organization makes a stronger case at the hearing.

8. Timing and deadlines

Probate matters may have procedural deadlines (for example, deadlines for creditor claims or for closing the estate). Act promptly when you discover missing or incorrect filings. If you miss a deadline, you may still have remedies, but they can be more limited or require additional legal steps—so don’t delay.

9. Consider getting legal help

Probate procedure can be technical. If the estate is large, there are disputes, or assets are being mishandled, consult a probate attorney. If cost is a concern, ask the court clerk about fee waivers or look for low-cost legal aid programs in Washington through the statewide court website: https://www.courts.wa.gov/.

Relevant Washington resources

• Washington probate law (RCW Title 11): https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/title11/.
• Washington Courts forms and probate forms: https://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/.
• Washington Courts case search (public dockets): https://dw.courts.wa.gov/.
• Washington court rules: https://www.courts.wa.gov/court_rules/.

Important: This information summarizes common steps and Washington resources. It does not replace professional legal advice. For help tailored to your situation, consult a licensed Washington attorney.

Helpful Hints

• Get full copies of the probate file before assuming a document is missing—sometimes filings are in a separate envelope or listed on the docket but not attached online.
• Keep a dated record of every contact with the personal representative and the court. Save emails, letters, and notes from phone calls.
• Start informally: a polite written request to the personal representative often brings quick fixes.
• If you plan to file with the court, follow local superior court rules for pleadings, service, and timelines—missteps can delay relief.
• If you suspect asset dissipation or fraud, ask the court for expedited relief and consider getting an attorney quickly.
• Use Washington Courts’ probate forms and instructions when available to reduce procedural errors: https://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/.
• If cost is an issue, search for free or low-cost legal assistance in Washington through the state courts site or local bar associations.

Disclaimer: This article is educational only and does not provide legal advice. For advice about your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney in Washington state.