Carolyn J. Benzel

District courts have jurisdiction over both criminal and civil cases. They have criminal jurisdiction over misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and criminal traffic cases. Jurisdiction in civil cases includes those with damages up to $100,000 for injury to individuals or personal property, as well as penalty and contract disputes up to $100,000. District courts also have jurisdiction over traffic and non-traffic infractions. District courts may also issue domestic violence and anti-harassment protection orders and no-contact orders. They have jurisdiction to hear name change petitions and certain lien foreclosures. Small claims are limited to money claims of up to $5,000 in which each party is generally self represented.