Deschutes County Circuit Court: What You Need to Know

If you live in Deschutes County, Oregon, you may need to visit the Deschutes County Circuit Court at some point. Whether you are dealing with a traffic violation, filing for divorce, or dealing with a criminal case, it is essential to understand how the court works and what to expect. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Deschutes County Circuit Court, including its history, services, and procedures.

History of the Deschutes County Circuit Court

The Deschutes County Circuit Court was established in 1914, following the creation of Deschutes County in 1916. The court was initially housed in a log cabin until a permanent courthouse was built in 1920. The current courthouse, located in Bend, was completed in 1978 and has undergone several renovations since then.

Services Provided by the Deschutes County Circuit Court

The Deschutes County Circuit Court provides a range of services to the community, including:

1. Criminal Proceedings

The court handles all criminal cases, from minor offenses to serious felonies. This includes arraignments, trials, and sentencing.

2. Civil Proceedings

The court handles all civil cases, including small claims, domestic relations, and probate matters.

3. Traffic Proceedings

The court handles all traffic-related cases, including violations, citations, and infractions.

4. Jury Duty

The court is responsible for summoning and selecting jurors for both civil and criminal cases.

5. Records

The court maintains all records for Deschutes County cases, including court dockets, judgments, and orders.

Procedures at the Deschutes County Circuit Court

If you need to visit the Deschutes County Circuit Court, it is essential to understand the procedures and requirements. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Filing Documents

To file documents, you must go to the courthouse during business hours and pay the appropriate fees. You will need to provide the case number, case type, and the name of the party or parties involved.

2. Courtroom Conduct

When you enter the courtroom, you should dress appropriately and behave respectfully. You should address the judge as “Your Honor” and wait to be called upon before speaking.

3. Jury Duty

If you are summoned for jury duty, you must report to the courthouse at the designated time. You will be asked questions by the judge and attorneys to determine if you are eligible to serve on the jury.

4. Courtroom Technology

The Deschutes County Circuit Court utilizes technology in the courtroom, including video conferencing and electronic document filing. You may be required to use these tools during your case.

5. Courtroom Security

The courthouse has strict security measures in place, including metal detectors and bag searches. You should not bring weapons, drugs, or other prohibited items into the courthouse.

Deschutes County Circuit Court Phone Number

If you need to contact the Deschutes County Circuit Court, you can do so by calling (541) 388-5300. The court is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Deschutes County Circuit Court Calendar

The Deschutes County Circuit Court calendar is available on their website. You can use the calendar to find out when your court date is, as well as view other upcoming court events. The calendar is updated regularly, so be sure to check back frequently for any changes.

Deschutes County Court Records Search

If you need to search for court records in Deschutes County, you can do so online through the Oregon Judicial Department’s website. The website allows you to search for court records by case number, party name, or attorney name. You can also visit the Deschutes County Circuit Court’s office in person to view court records.

Deschutes County Circuit Court Judges

The Deschutes County Circuit Court is presided over by four judges: Judge Michael C. Sullivan, Judge Wells Ashby, Judge Randy Miller, and Judge Alta Brady. The judges are responsible for hearing cases and making rulings based on the law and evidence presented in court.

Deschutes County Jail

The Deschutes County Jail is located in Bend, Oregon and is responsible for housing inmates who are awaiting trial or serving a sentence. The jail is operated by the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office and can be contacted at (541) 388-6661.

Deschutes County Public Records

If you need to access public records in Deschutes County, you can do so by visiting the county’s website. The website allows you to search for a variety of records, including property records, marriage records, and birth and death certificates.

Crook County Circuit Court

The Crook County Circuit Court is located in Prineville, Oregon and serves the people of Crook County. The court is responsible for handling all criminal, civil, and traffic-related cases, including small claims, domestic relations, and probate matters.

Deschutes County Jury Duty

If you are a resident of Deschutes County, you may be called for jury duty. If you receive a summons for jury duty, you will be required to report to the Deschutes County Circuit Court on the date and time specified on your summons.

Conclusion

The Deschutes County Circuit Court provides critical services to the community, from criminal proceedings to civil cases. If you need to visit the courthouse, it is essential to understand the procedures and requirements to ensure a smooth process. Remember to be respectful, dress appropriately, and follow all courtroom rules.

FAQs

1. How do I file a case with the Deschutes County Circuit Court? To file a case, you must go to the courthouse during business hours and pay the appropriate fees. You will need to provide the case number, case type, and the name of the party or parties involved.
2. What types of cases does the Deschutes County Circuit Court handle? The court handles all criminal, civil, and traffic-related cases, including small claims, domestic relations, and probate matters.
3. How do I find the court docket for my case? You can find the court docket for your case by visiting the Deschutes County Circuit Court’s website and searching for your case by name or case number.
4. Can I pay court fees online? Yes, the Deschutes County Circuit Court allows you to pay court fees online through their website.
5. How long does it take to receive a judgment in a civil case? The time it takes to receive a judgment in a civil case can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court’s schedule. It is best to consult with an attorney for more information on the specific timeline for your case.