First Circuit – District Court

Overview

The District Court in Honolulu hears cases filed in the Honolulu Division which includes encompasses Red Hill to Hawaii Kai. The District Court in Ewa hears cases filed in the Ewa Division which encompasses Halawa to Makakilo. The District Court in Kaneohe hears cases filed in the Ko`olauloa and Ko`olaupoku Divisions. Ko`olauloa Division encompasses Kauloa to Waimea. Ko`olaupoko Division encompasses Waimanalo to Kualoa. The District Court in Wahiawa hears cases filed in the Wahiawa and Waialua Divisions. The Wahiawa Division encompasses Poamoho to Kipapa Gulch. Waialua Division encompasses Nanakuli to Ka'ena Point and zip code 96707. The District Court of Waianae is located in Kapolei and hears cases filed in the Waianae Division which encompasses Maili to Ka'ena Point.

Specialties

The District Courts can hear cases over traffic violations, misdemeanors, money claims under $40,000, landlord-tenant actions, ejectment, small claims under $5,000, and temporary restraining orders.

Eligibility Information

To start a case in District Court, one must file a statement of claim either 1) in-person at the Honolulu court or 2) online by registering for Judiciary Electronic Filing and Service System (JEFS). The person whom the claim is against must be served notice before the trial will be heard.

Additional Information

The Judiciary provides accommodations for persons with disabilities. Request assistance 10 days in advance and Disability Accommodations Coordinators assigned to various courts and programs will help you. The Judiciary is committed to providing meaningful access to court processes and services to persons with limited English proficiency. The Judiciary provides court interpreters to parties in a case free of charge. The District Court Access to Justice Room is staffed by attorneys and AmeriCorps Advocates. It provides free, short-term, legal consultations, which are time-limited and confidential. Representation does not continue post-consultation.