Municipal Courts
Page Content
The 2013 Portland Rose Festival Grand Floral Parade on Weidler Street in Northeast Portland. (Oregon Scenic Images collection)
Many incorporated cities in Oregon have a municipal court as authorized by charter and state law. Municipal courts have concurrent jurisdiction with circuit and justice courts over all violations and misdemeanors committed or triable in the city in which the court is located. They do not have jurisdiction over felonies. Municipal courts primarily hear traffic violations and crimes; violations of municipal codes and ordinances, including animal, high grass and trash nuisances; vehicle impoundments and forfeitures; and parking and pedestrian violations. They also hear minor tobacco, liquor and drug violations.
Municipal judges are usually appointed by their respective city council and serve at its pleasure. A few Oregon cities have elected judges. The city council or charter determines the qualifications for office. A municipal judge may perform weddings anywhere in the state of Oregon.
The Oregon Judges Association is a 501(c)(6) business league open to all judges in Oregon, with an emphasis on courts of limited and specialized jurisdiction. Members include judges from municipal, tribal, justice and state courts. OJA was founded in 1984 and previously operated under the name Oregon Municipal Judges Association. The mission of OJA is to promote professionalism on the bench, provide education to judges, and educate the public about Oregon's courts. OJA produces countless continuing legal education opportunities for all Oregon judges.
Oregon Judges Association
Source: Hon. Juliet Britton
Address: OJA, PO Box 1472, Beaverton, OR 97075
Justice/Municipal Court Registry of Courts and Judges