FORKS — Paying a court fine, checking a calendar or holding a hearing is now just a mouse click away for West End residents.
Clallam County District Court No. 2 in Forks has launched a new Web site that increases the public’s access to court services, making it easier for people to get the information they need without going to court in person.
One of the site’s new features is the ability to conduct infraction mitigation hearings by e-mail. The hearings are for people who admit committing an infraction but want to explain the circumstances to justify a reduced penalty.
“This is part of our commitment to providing the best service we can provide to the public,” said Judge Erik Rohrer.
“And we recognize that people don’t have a meaningful opportunity to present their side of a situation involving, say, a $91 ticket if it involves taking a day off work to appear in court.”
Other Web site features include:
* Access to court calendars, where defendants and other litigants can determine when their matter will be heard.
* Credit card payments, enabling people to pay court fines by credit card through a secure site.
* Collections information, allowing people whose accounts have gone to collection an opportunity to work directly with the collection agency.
* Brochures on several District Court topics, including criminal and traffic, infractions, anti-harassment, domestic violence, small claims, name changes and jury duty.
* Fee information about fees charged by the court for services.
* Local court rules.
* Blank forms for use by attorneys and pro se litigants.
The site was established by Court Administrator Sabrina Bees, with programming assistance from the county’s Information Technology staff.
Where to view
The Web site can be viewed at www.clallam.net/Courts/html/court_district_2.asp, or linked to from the county’s Web site, www.clallam.net.
Information about District Court No. 1 in Port Angeles can also be accessed through the county Web site.
