County courthouses handle most cases that affect daily life
A county courthouse is the physical building where judges hear cases involving money disputes, property, family matters, criminal charges, and small claims. It is run by your county government, not the state or federal system. The courthouse is where you go if you need to file paperwork, attend a hearing, pay a fine, or testify as a witness.
Every county in the United States has at least one courthouse. Some large counties have multiple buildings, each handling different types of cases. The courthouse is a public building — you can walk in during business hours, though security screening is standard at most locations.
County courts are distinct from state appellate courts (which review decisions) and federal courts (which handle cases involving federal law or disputes between states). Most legal matters that touch ordinary people — divorce, eviction, traffic violations, small business disputes — start in county court.
Key Takeaways
- County courthouses are county government buildings where judges hear cases involving property, money, family matters, and criminal charges.
- You can find your county courthouse by searching "[your county name] courthouse" online or calling your county clerk's office.
- Courthouse hours are typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, and you will need to pass through security screening to enter.
- Different courtrooms handle different case types, and the courthouse website or clerk's office can tell you which room your case is assigned to.
- You do not need a lawyer to file paperwork or attend a hearing, though many people choose to have one represent them.
How to locate your county courthouse
Start by identifying which county you live in or where the case is being heard. Then search "[county name] courthouse" in a search engine, or visit your county government's official website. Most county websites have a "Courts" or "Clerk of Court" section with the courthouse address, phone number, and hours.
If you cannot find it online, call your county clerk's office. The clerk is a county official who maintains court records and can tell you the courthouse location, which courtroom your case is in, and what documents you need to bring. The clerk's phone number is usually listed on the county government website.
Some counties have multiple courthouse buildings in different towns. If you are unsure which one handles your type of case, the clerk's office can direct you to the right location. Large urban counties may have separate buildings for criminal cases, civil cases, and family law.
What different courtrooms handle
County courthouses contain multiple courtrooms, each assigned to a specific judge and type of case. A single courthouse might have a criminal division, a civil division, a family law division, and a small claims court, all operating at the same time in different rooms.
Criminal courtrooms handle cases where someone is charged with breaking the law — misdemeanors (minor crimes like shoplifting or disorderly conduct) and felonies (serious crimes). Civil courtrooms hear disputes between people or businesses over money or property — contract breaches, personal injury claims, and landlord-tenant disputes. Family law courtrooms handle divorce, custody, child support, and adoption cases. Small claims courts resolve disputes involving smaller amounts of money, usually under $5,000 to $10,000 depending on the state.
When you file a case or receive a summons, the paperwork will tell you which courtroom and which judge is assigned. If you are unsure, the clerk's office can confirm the room number before you arrive.
What to expect when you enter a courthouse
You will pass through a security checkpoint similar to airport screening. You may need to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket, and place bags and phones in a bin. Weapons, including pocket knives and pepper spray, are not allowed. If you have a legitimate reason to carry something that would normally be prohibited (such as a service animal), tell security staff before you enter.
Once inside, find the courtroom number from your paperwork or ask at the information desk. Courtrooms are open to the public unless a judge has sealed the case, which is rare. You can sit in the gallery (the public seating area) and observe other cases before yours is called.
If you are a party to the case (the person suing or being sued, or the defendant), sit at the table in front. If you are a witness, you may be asked to wait outside the courtroom until you are called to testify. Bring all documents the court asked you to bring, and arrive at least 15 minutes early.
Court hours and how to reach the courthouse
Most county courthouses are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have limited hours on Friday afternoons. Many courthouses close on federal holidays. Some counties offer limited services on Saturday mornings, but this varies widely.
Call ahead if you need to file paperwork or ask questions. The clerk's office can tell you which documents to bring and whether you need an appointment. Some courthouses allow you to file certain documents by mail or online, which can save you a trip.
If you cannot reach anyone by phone, visit the courthouse in person during business hours. The information desk or clerk's office can answer questions about your case, direct you to the right courtroom, and explain what to bring.
Filing paperwork at the courthouse
To start a case in county court, you file paperwork with the clerk's office. The specific forms depend on the type of case — a small claims complaint looks different from a divorce petition. The clerk's office has blank forms and can tell you which ones you need, though they cannot give legal information about how to fill them out.
You can file in person at the courthouse, by mail, or online if your county offers e-filing. Filing in person is fastest because the clerk can check your paperwork on the spot and tell you if anything is missing. Filing by mail takes longer because the clerk has to process it and mail you a receipt. Online filing is available in some counties and is usually the quickest option.
When you file, you pay a filing fee. The amount varies by case type and county — small claims fees are typically $50 to $200, while civil cases can cost $200 to $500 or more. Some people with low income can request a fee waiver. Ask the clerk if you cannot afford the fee.
When you receive a summons or court notice
If someone is suing you or you are being charged with a crime, you will receive official paperwork — a summons, complaint, or charging document. This paperwork tells you the courthouse location, the courtroom number, the date and time you must appear, and what the case is about.
Read the paperwork carefully and note the date and time. Missing a court date can result in a judgment against you or a warrant for your arrest. If you cannot make the date, contact the courthouse when ready and ask to reschedule. Do not straightforward ignore the notice.
Bring the original paperwork with you to court, along with any documents that support your side of the case. If you have a lawyer, they will handle most of the paperwork and courtroom procedure. If you do not, the judge will explain the process, though they cannot give you legal information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch a court case if I am not involved in it?
Yes, county court proceedings are open to the public unless a judge has sealed the case. You can sit in the gallery and observe. Some courthouses ask you to check in at the information desk first, but you do not need permission to watch.
What should I wear to court?
Wear clean, professional clothing — business casual or formal dress. Avoid very casual clothing like athletic wear, tank tops, or shorts. Judges may dismiss you from the courtroom if your appearance is disruptive, though standards vary by judge and case type.
Do I need a lawyer to go to county court?
No, you have the right to represent yourself. However, the judge will not give you legal information, and you are expected to follow the same rules as a lawyer would. Many people hire a lawyer because court procedure is complex, but it is not required.
How do I find out what happened in a case that was already decided?
Contact the clerk's office and ask for the case file or court records. You can usually view them in person at the courthouse or request copies by mail. Some counties allow you to search case records online on the courthouse website.
What if I cannot afford to pay a filing fee?
Ask the clerk about a fee waiver or fee reduction. You will need to fill out a form explaining your income and expenses. The judge decides whether to grant the waiver, and the decision varies by case type and county.