Third Circuit – District Courts

Overview

The District Court in Waimea is located at the Waimea Civic Center. The Waimea District Court hears cases filed in the South Kohala, Hamakua, and North Kohala Divisions. These Divisions encompass Kawaihae, Puako, Waikoloa, Kamuela, Waimea, Pa'auilo, Paauhau, Honoka'a, Kukuihaele, Mahukona, Kapa'au, Haa'ula, and Hawai'i. The District Court in Kailua-Kona hears cases filed in the North and South Kona and Ka'u Divisions. These divisions encompass Kailua-Kona, Holualoa, Keauhou, Honalo, Captain Cook, Honaunau, Ho'okena, Miloli'i, and Kealakekua. The District Court in Hilo hears cases filed in the North and South Hilo and Puna Divisions. This encompasses Hilo, Papa'ikou, Honomu, Hakalau, Honohina, Papa'aloa, Laupahoehoe, 'Ookala, Kea'au, Kurtistown, Mountain View, Volcano, and Pahoa.

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 District 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 in accordance with state laws and the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you need assistance, Disability Accommodations Coordinators assigned to various courts and programs will help you. Please contact the courts at least 10 days in advance of your court event. 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.