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1. What is Conciliation Court?

Conciliation Court was created to allow citizens to bring their legal claims before the court without expensive costs, attorney's fees, or complicated legal procedures. For more information, please visit the Conciliation Court page.

2. What is the limit set by law for Conciliation Court?

Conciliation Court can settle claims that are below the limit set by law. For additional information, visit Minnesota's state court website.

3. What is Guardian Ad Litem?

A Guardian Ad Litem provides advocacy for children by gathering information to make recommendations in court regarding their best interest. Please visit the Guardian Ad Litem page for more information.

4. How do I change my name?

You must file for a change of name in the county where you live and you must have lived in the State of Minnesota for at least 6 months. More information is available on the Civil Courts page.

5. What is a Harassment Restraining Order?

A Harassment Restraining Order is a court order forbidding someone from harassing and / or making contact with another or any minor children in the home. Visit the Civil Courts page for more information.

6. How do I request a Public Defender?

An application form must be obtained from Court Administration, which must be truthfully completed and verified. If the court determines you do not make enough money to hire counsel, an attorney most often called a "Public Defender" will be appointed. Please visit the Court Appointed Attorney page for more information.

7. How do I pay a fine?

You can pay your fine by mail, over the telephone, online, or in person.  Visit the Paying Your Fees page for more information.

8. What is a Petty Misdemeanor?

The maximum fine for a Petty Misdemeanor is $300. A Petty Misdemeanor is not a crime and therefore carries no jail time. You may be represented by an attorney hired at your own expense. If you wish to plead not guilty, you are entitled to a court trial. A court trial is a trial by a judge without a jury. Please visit our Criminal and Traffic Courts page for more information.

9. What is a Misdemeanor?

The maximum penalty is $1,000 and / or 90 days in jail. A Misdemeanor is a crime and consequently a more serious offense. If you cannot afford an attorney to represent you, you may apply for the services of a Public Defender. More information regarding Misdemeanors is available on our Criminal and Traffic Courts page. If you wish to plead not guilty, you are entitled to a jury trial. A jury trial would consist of 6 persons and all 6 persons would have to agree that you are guilty before you could be convicted and sentenced.

10. Do I have to appear in court?

You must appear in court if:

• You have posted bail or bond
• You wish to plead guilty, but offer an explanation
• You wish to plead not guilty and you are charged with a misdemeanor

If you are unsure whether or not you must appear in court, contact Court Administration by email, or at 651-213-7010.

11. What happens if I fail to pay my fine or appear in court as directed?

• A warrant for your arrest may be issued
• Revenue recapture may be initiated
• Your driver's license may be suspended

12. Who can I call for Legal Aid?

Contact East Central Legal Services: 1-800-622-7772.

13. Where can I go for online help?

Visit Minnesota's law help website for additional help. You can also visit the Self Help Centers that are found on the Minnesota Courts website.

14. Where can I obtain online court forms?

Online court forms may be found on Minnesota's state court website.

15. What fees do you charge?

Our Schedule of Fees is available online, for your convenience.

16. Who are the Judges in Chisago County?

The Chisago County District Judges are:

• The Honorable Bridgid E. Dowdal
• The Honorable Catherine Trevino
• The Honorable Suzanne Bollman