FAQs • Cowlitz County, WA • CivicEngage

What should I wear and how should I act in court?: Suitable attire is required. Shoes and shirts are necessary. Halter tops, tank tops, and shorts are not permitted. Hats are to be removed upon entering the Courtroom. No smoking, food or drink will be allowed. Cell phones and pagers should be turned off or on silent. Children may be present in the Courtroom, but if they disturb the proceedings you may be requested to remove them. The Court does not provide childcare. Upon your arrival, please check the monitors in front of the Clerk’s office to find which Courtroom you are scheduled in. Once you are in the Courtroom, when your name is called come forward and stand behind one of the counsel tables. Be polite, courteous and remain standing until the Judge instructs you otherwise.

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District Court

1. What are District Court's hours?: The District Court's hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except for legal holidays.

2. Where is the District Court located?: The District Court is located at:

312 SW 1st Ave.

Room 207

Kelso, WA 98626

4. How do I make an online payment for a citation or other court fines?: Please visit the link provided for online payment information. Click here to view online payment instructions

5. When is my court date?: Your arraignment date will be at the bottom of your original citation. If you have already been arraigned you will receive your next hearing date while you are in the court room, or it will be mailed to you. You can check for an upcoming date by going to the following link. Washington State Courts

6. Can I get a court-appointed attorney?: If you would like an attorney and are not able to afford one, you may file an Application For Court Appointed Attorney. The judge will review your application and if you qualify you will be appointed an attorney.

7. If I am assessed a fine can I make payments?: All fines are due in full within 60 days or you can contact CPMS regarding other payment options.

8. What should I wear and how should I act in court?: Suitable attire is required. Shoes and shirts are necessary. Halter tops, tank tops, and shorts are not permitted. Hats are to be removed upon entering the Courtroom. No smoking, food or drink will be allowed. Cell phones and pagers should be turned off or on silent. Children may be present in the Courtroom, but if they disturb the proceedings you may be requested to remove them. The Court does not provide childcare. Upon your arrival, please check the monitors in front of the Clerk’s office to find which Courtroom you are scheduled in. Once you are in the Courtroom, when your name is called come forward and stand behind one of the counsel tables. Be polite, courteous and remain standing until the Judge instructs you otherwise.

9. When will my bail or bond be returned?: Cash bail or a bail bond will be exonerated once there is a final disposition of the case, either a finding of guilt or innocence. If you posted a bail bond you need to contact the bonding agency when the case is complete. If you posted cash it will be refunded to the person who posted it.