​Kitsap County District Court

The Kitsap County District Court is a court of limited jurisdiction.  We hear misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor crimes, Small Claims and limited civil actions. Crimes heard by the District Court carry a maximum penalty of 364 days in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.  The most common criminal charges include traffic charges such as Driving Under the Influence (DUI), and Driving with a Suspended License.  Other misdemeanor charges of Assault, Theft and misdemeanor domestic violence charges are filed in District Court.  Traffic offenses (infractions) such as speeding, vehicle registration (licensing) charges and equipment violations are also heard in District Court.

Small Claims in amounts not exceeding $5,000 and civil actions not exceeding $100,000 are heard in District Court.  It also has jurisdiction over unlawful harassment petitions (neighbor disputes), protection orders (family/intimate partner matters) and hears petitions for name changes.  Felony crimes and family law, such as divorce proceeding are heard in Superior Court. 

The Probation Services Department monitors offender's compliance with sentences ordered by our Court.  Probation is a sentencing alternative to incarceration in jail. These conditions might include No Contact Orders granted in cases of domestic violence or treatment for alcohol/drug abuse ordered for DUI offenders.  Referrals for treatment are made from this office.