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In most civil cases, the accusing party (the plaintiff) wants money
damages (judgment or award) from the other party (the defendant). Cases
may be decided by a judge, a jury or by a non-judicial officer,
depending on the nature of the claim and the preference of the
parties. Landlord-tenant cases and small claims cases are usually heard
in geographical area courts. Administrative appeals and civil jury and
non-jury cases are usually heard in judicial district courthouses. Tax
cases are heard in a special tax session. Information
on Special Sessions.
The Civil Division is divided
into five parts or types:
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Administrative Appeals;
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Civil
Jury;
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Civil Non-Jury;
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Landlord-Tenant, including evictions (called
summary process);
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Small
Claims
Criminal Division
hears cases where the state is prosecuting a person (the defendant) who
is accused of breaking the law. The state is represented by a state's
attorney. There are three kinds of criminal cases, depending on the
severity of the offense: crimes which include felonies -
punishable by prison sentences more than one year - and misdemeanors -
punishable by prison sentences of one year or less; violations
which include motor vehicle cases punishable by a fine only; and,
infractions where a fine may be paid by mail without requiring a
court appearance (for example, traffic tickets). All criminal cases but
the most serious ones are heard in geographical area courts around the
state.
Family Division hears cases involving juveniles and family relationships. Typical cases
include divorce, child custody, child support, relief from abuse
(temporary restraining orders), juvenile delinquency, child abuse and
neglect, and termination of parental rights. Most family cases are
heard in judicial district courthouses. Cases involving juveniles are
heard in juvenile court facilities described below.
Juvenile Matters
is a special subdivision of Superior Court designed to protect the
rights of children, family relationships and confidentiality. There are thirteen Juvenile Courts state-wide. All court documents are
confidential and court hearings are closed to the public. All juvenile
court cases either involve care of the minor child or the child's
behavior. Children are those under 16 years old. Youth are age 16 up to
age 18. Cases in juvenile court include: termination of parental rights;
emancipation of a minor; delinquency (crimes committed by children under
age 16); neglected or uncared for children and youth; families with
service needs (FWSN) (a family with a child under age 16 who has bad
behavior).
Juvenile Matters Standing
Orders |
