Frequently Asked Questions

I was charged with a crime. Now what?

If the arresting officer issued you a citation it will have a hearing date on it. Otherwise, the court will send you a hearing date in the mail. Be sure to show up to court on the date and time provided (or Zoom in). In the meantime, fill out an application for a public defender. Or if you have one already, give them a call.

I was appointed a public defender. What next?

Give us a call and ask to set up an appointment to speak with your attorney. Call 360-385-5613.

What is an arraignment? Do I need an attorney?

An arraignment is a hearing where the court formally charges you with a crime. An attorney from our office will appear with you at the arraignment if you don’t already have one.

The Judge prohibited me from going back home, but granted me a civil standby. What’s that?

A civil standby is a court order that allows a person who is prohibited from going back to their residence to pick up items from there in the presence of a Sheriff’s deputy. To arrange the civil standby, contact the Jefferson County Sheriff Civil Division by calling 360-385-9390. Do not contact the protected party or go to the residence without a deputy.

I was arrested for DUI and now my license is suspended. What’s going on?

The DOL will probably suspend your license 30 days after you get arrested for a DUI, unless you request a hearing with the DOL within 7 days of your arrest. Fill out this form to request a hearing. The $375 fee is waived for the hearing if you have been appointed a public defender.

How and where do I get an Ignition Interlock Device?

You can get an Ignition Interlock Device installed by Smart Start. To find the nearest Smart Start installation location, click here. (Note that the Ding Doctor in Port Hadlock is no longer offering IID installation.)

For more information about IID’s, visit the Washington State Patrol website.

How do I find out what’s suspending my license?

The state’s Department of Licensing (DOL) has that information. Set up a License Express account to view your license status, reinstate your license, renew your license, and more.

Can I rescind a no contact order?

Yes, if you are the protected party. For a District Court case, complete this form and return to District Court with a self-addressed stamped envelope, a safety plan obtained from a domestic violence advocate, and a copy of your police report. The completed form will be given to the Judge for review.

For a Superior Court case, complete this form and return to Superior Court with a self-addressed stamped envelope. The completed form will be given to the Judge for review.