The Othello District Court is a vital part of the justice system serving the residents of Othello, Washington, a small but dynamic city in Adams County. Though it is not a person, this court plays a key role in upholding the law, resolving disputes, and providing justice for the community.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the court — from its location, operating hours, and staff to the types of cases it handles, public access, and its role in the community. Whether you are a resident, visitor, or legal professional, this article gives a complete overview of how the Othello District Court works.
What Is the Othello District Court?
The Othello District Court is a local court of limited jurisdiction. It handles legal matters that arise in Othello and surrounding areas within Adams County. Unlike federal or state courts, it focuses on community-level issues such as traffic violations, misdemeanors, small claims, and other civil disputes.
This Othello District Court ensures that residents can resolve legal matters close to home, without needing to travel to larger cities or more distant courts. Its decisions impact the daily lives of individuals, families, and businesses in the area, making it a central part of Othello’s civic structure.
Where Is It Located?
The Othello District Court is conveniently located within the city for easy access:
📌 425 E Main St., Suite 400, Othello, WA 99344
Phone: (509) 488‑3935
Email: districtcourtothello@co.adams.wa.us
Its central location makes it accessible for residents, attorneys, and law enforcement. Being in the heart of Othello allows visitors to combine court visits with other city services if needed.
Court Hours & Daily Operations
The Othello District Court operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., typically closing for lunch between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. These hours are designed to accommodate residents, including those who work standard office hours.
Visitors are advised to arrive early for scheduled hearings. The front office manages check-ins, and names are called as court sessions begin. Punctuality helps ensure hearings proceed smoothly and efficiently.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Othello District Court |
| Type | Local/municipal court |
| Location | 425 E Main St., Suite 400, Othello, WA 99344 |
| Phone | (509) 488‑3935 |
| districtcourtothello@co.adams.wa.us | |
| Presiding Judge | Judge Carolyn J. Benzel |
| Court Administrator | Lazaro Martinez |
| Operating Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
| Cases Handled | Misdemeanors, traffic violations, civil disputes, small claims, protection orders |
| Website | co.adams.wa.gov |
Who Works at the Court?
Though it is an institution, the court’s work depends on real people who make the system function.
Judge Carolyn J. Benzel
Judge Benzel serves as the Presiding Judge of the Othello District Court. She oversees hearings on criminal, civil, and traffic cases. Her role is similar to a CEO in a company — she ensures procedures are followed, cases are heard fairly, and justice is served.
Her professional reputation emphasizes impartiality and fairness, though personal details such as age, height, or net worth are private and not publicly disclosed.
Court Administrator Lazaro Martinez
The Court Administrator manages day-to-day operations, including scheduling hearings, coordinating paperwork, and overseeing staff. Residents often interact with the administrator for guidance on payments, filing documents, and other administrative needs.
Types of Cases the Court Hears
The Othello District Court handles a wide range of cases, providing justice at a local level.
Criminal Misdemeanors & Infractions
The court addresses misdemeanors, which are less serious crimes than felonies. Common cases include petty theft, disorderly conduct, and public disturbances.
It also manages traffic violations, such as speeding tickets, parking infractions, and other non-criminal traffic offenses. Occasionally, the court handles gross misdemeanors, which are more serious than regular misdemeanors.
Protection Orders
The court hears petitions for protection orders. These are legal tools designed to protect individuals from harassment, domestic violence, or threats. The court ensures victims have access to immediate legal remedies while respecting due process.
Small Claims & Civil Disputes
Small claims typically involve disputes up to $10,000 (sometimes reported higher depending on case specifics). Residents and businesses often use this process to resolve disagreements about money, property, or contracts.
Civil cases in the District Court also include landlord-tenant disputes, personal injury claims, and other civil matters that require formal legal resolution.
Other Legal Actions
The court also handles:
- Name change petitions
- Vehicle impound hearings
- Garnishment orders
- Property recovery (replevin) cases
- Warrants for arrest or search in specific circumstances
This diversity of cases highlights the court’s role as a hub for legal resolution in the Othello community.
How to Use the Court
Arriving for a Hearing
When attending a hearing:
- Check in at the front window.
- Wait for your name to be called.
- Follow courtroom rules: no weapons, food, or phones, and dress appropriately.
Proper etiquette helps maintain a professional and respectful environment in the courtroom.
Payments and Fees
The court offers multiple ways to pay fines and fees:
- Online payments through the official portal
- By phone, via the court payment line
- In-person payments at the courthouse
- Mail payments, using check or money order
The court may offer payment plans for residents unable to pay immediately, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
Connection to Other Courts
Municipal Court
The City of Othello also has a municipal court, established in 2023, to handle local ordinance violations. It is separate but complements the District Court.
Located at 500 E Main St., Othello, the municipal court addresses traffic citations, municipal code violations, and minor disputes. It shares administrative leadership with the District Court.
Superior Court
The Adams County Superior Court occasionally holds sessions in Othello for juvenile cases, major civil cases, and specialized legal matters. This arrangement reduces travel needs for residents and ensures access to higher court services locally.
Public Access and Transparenc
The court provides public access to records, although case numbers or specific information may be required. This transparency balances the public’s right to know with privacy protection for individuals involved in legal matters.
Community Importance
The Othello District Court is often the first interaction residents have with the legal system outside of law enforcement. The court helps people:
- Resolve civil disputes
- Contest fines or traffic tickets
- Seek protection from threats or harassment
- Navigate cases that could affect employment, housing, or personal freedom
By providing these services, the court reinforces trust in local governance and the legal process.
Supporting Fairness and Justice
The court ensures fair treatment for all participants — defendants, plaintiffs, victims, attorneys, and jurors. Procedural rules guarantee that everyone has the opportunity to be heard and understood, maintaining the integrity of the justice system.
Conclusion
While the Othello District Court does not have personal attributes like a biography, family, or net worth, its impact on the community is tangible. It keeps law and order, resolves disputes, protects citizens, and maintains public trust.
Understanding how this court operates is essential for anyone living in or visiting Othello. Whether attending a hearing, paying fines, or filing a petition, knowing how the court functions helps residents navigate the legal system with confidence and respect.
FAQs
Q: What types of cases does Othello District Court handle?
A: The court handles misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims, civil disputes, and protection order petitions.
Q: Where is Othello District Court located?
A: It is located at 425 E Main St., Suite 400, Othello, WA 99344.
Q: What are the court’s operating hours?
A: The court is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a lunch closure from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Q: Can I pay my fines online?
A: Yes, fines and fees can be paid online, by phone, in-person, or by mail, and some cases allow payment plans.
Q: Who is the presiding judge of Othello District Court?
A: Judge Carolyn J. Benzel is the presiding judge responsible for hearings and legal decisions in the court.
