Multnomah County Court Records

What Is Multnomah County Court Records

Court records in Multnomah County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities as defined under Oregon Revised Statutes § 7.010, which establishes requirements for maintaining court records.

Multnomah County court records typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
• Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
• Judicial orders and final judgments
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing records in criminal matters
• Marriage dissolution decrees and custody determinations
• Probate filings and estate settlements

Court records differ from other public records maintained by Multnomah County, such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates), and county administrative records. The Multnomah County Circuit Court, as part of Oregon's Fourth Judicial District, maintains the official court records for cases heard within its jurisdiction.

The following courts generate and maintain records in Multnomah County:

• Circuit Court (civil, criminal, family, probate divisions)
• Small Claims Court (for matters under $10,000)
• Juvenile Court
• Mental Health Court
• Drug Court and other specialty courts

These records document proceedings across various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, traffic violations, and specialty court programs. The Oregon Judicial Department maintains these records according to state retention schedules and access policies.

Are Court Records Public In Multnomah County

Court records in Multnomah County are generally accessible to the public pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes § 192.311-192.478, known as the Oregon Public Records Law, and the constitutional principle of open courts established in Article I, Section 10 of the Oregon Constitution. These legal frameworks establish the presumption that court records are public unless specifically exempted by statute or court rule.

The following court records are typically available for public inspection:

• Civil case files (with limited redactions for sensitive information)
• Criminal case files after formal charging
• Court dockets and registers of actions
• Judgments, orders, and decrees
• Court calendars and hearing schedules
• Probate and estate records

However, certain records are restricted from public access under Supplementary Local Rules for Multnomah County Circuit Court and state law, including:

• Sealed records pursuant to judicial order
• Juvenile dependency and delinquency records (with exceptions)
• Mental health commitment proceedings
• Adoption records
• Records containing protected personal information
• Certain family law matters involving minors
• Grand jury proceedings

The Oregon Judicial Department has established Uniform Trial Court Rules (UTCR) that govern public access to court records statewide, including those in Multnomah County. These rules implement the balance between the public's right to access and individual privacy interests as mandated by state law.

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon (located in Portland) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions.

How To Find Court Records in Multnomah County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Multnomah County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains multiple access points for record retrieval:

In-Person Requests:

1. Visit the Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office located on the 3rd floor of the courthouse.
2. Complete a record request form, providing case number, party names, and case type.
3. Present valid photo identification to court staff.
4. Pay applicable copy fees ($0.25 per page for standard copies).
5. Wait for staff to retrieve records from either electronic systems or physical archives.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office
1200 SW 1st Avenue, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3957
Multnomah County Circuit Court Records

Online Access:

1. Access the Oregon Judicial Case Information Network (OJCIN) for case information.
2. Register for an account with the Oregon eCourt Case Information system.
3. Search by case number, party name, or attorney.
4. View register of actions and basic case information for free.
5. Pay subscription fees for access to document images and additional features.

Written Requests:

1. Submit a written request to the Court Records Office via mail.
2. Include case information, specific documents needed, and contact information.
3. Enclose payment for copy fees and self-addressed stamped envelope.
4. Allow 5-10 business days for processing.

For older records that may have been archived, the court requires additional processing time and may charge retrieval fees pursuant to ORS § 21.245, which authorizes courts to establish reasonable fees for record retrieval services.

How To Look Up Court Records in Multnomah County Online?

Multnomah County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records online. These systems provide varying levels of information depending on the user's registration status and the nature of the records sought.

The primary online resources include:

Oregon eCourt Case Information (OECI) System:

1. Navigate to the Oregon eCourt Case Information portal.
2. Create a user account or log in as a guest (limited access).
3. Select "Multnomah" from the county dropdown menu.
4. Search using case number, party name, attorney, or citation number.
5. Review basic case information available to all users.
6. For registered users, access document images with subscription ($8/month or $72/year).

Oregon Judicial Department Records Search:

1. Visit the OJD Records and Calendar Search page.
2. Select the appropriate search option (case records or calendars).
3. Choose Multnomah County from the location options.
4. Enter search criteria (minimum of last name or business name).
5. Review results showing basic case information and scheduled hearings.

Specialty Databases:

• For appellate cases involving Multnomah County matters at the Oregon Court of Appeals or Supreme Court, use the Appellate Court Records Search.
• For Oregon Tax Court cases, utilize the dedicated Tax Court Case Information portal.

When using these online systems, users should note that:

• Document images are generally not available without subscription.
• Certain case types may have restricted online access.
• Records sealed by court order will not appear in search results.
• Historical records (generally pre-2010) may not be fully available online.
• The systems operate under the Oregon Judicial Department's Terms of Use.

How To Search Multnomah County Court Records for Free?

Pursuant to ORS § 192.324, members of the public have the right to inspect public records during regular business hours. Multnomah County provides several no-cost options for accessing basic court record information:

Free In-Person Inspection:

1. Visit the Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office during public counter hours (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Monday-Friday, excluding holidays).
2. Request to inspect specific case files using the public access terminals.
3. View records on-site without charge (copying fees apply if printed copies are requested).

Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office
1200 SW 1st Avenue, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3957
Multnomah County Circuit Court Records

Free Online Resources:

• Oregon Judicial Department Records Search - Provides free access to basic case information including party names, case types, filing dates, and scheduled hearings.
• OECI Guest Access - Allows limited free searches without registration for basic case information.
• Multnomah County Circuit Court Calendars - Offers free access to upcoming court schedules.

Public Law Libraries:

• The Multnomah County Law Library provides public access computers for searching court records.
• Library staff can assist with navigating the free online resources.

Multnomah County Law Library
1021 SW 4th Avenue, Room 240
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3394
Multnomah County Law Library

While basic case information is available at no cost, users should be aware of the following limitations:

• Document images and full case files typically require payment or subscription.
• Free searches may have daily limits on the number of queries.
• Certain case types may not be visible through free access points.
• Archived cases may require retrieval fees even for inspection.

What's Included in a Multnomah County Court Record?

Multnomah County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type. Pursuant to ORS § 7.010, which defines the components of official court records, these files typically include:

Civil Case Records:

• Complaint or petition initiating the action
• Summons and proof of service
• Defendant's answer or response
• Motions and supporting memoranda
• Affidavits and declarations
• Discovery documents filed with the court
• Exhibits admitted into evidence
• Court orders and rulings
• Final judgment
• Post-judgment motions and orders
• Appeal documentation if applicable

Criminal Case Records:

• Charging documents (indictment, information, or complaint)
• Arraignment records
• Bail and release documents
• Pretrial motions and rulings
• Plea agreements
• Trial exhibits and transcripts if filed
• Verdict forms
• Sentencing documents
• Probation reports filed with the court
• Post-conviction relief filings
• Restitution orders

Family Law Records:

• Petition for dissolution or separation
• Parenting plans
• Child support worksheets and orders
• Property division agreements
• Temporary orders
• Custody evaluations filed with the court
• Final dissolution judgment
• Modification requests and orders

Probate Records:

• Will (if testate)
• Petition for probate or administration
• Inventory of estate assets
• Claims against the estate
• Accountings
• Distribution plans
• Orders appointing personal representatives
• Final accountings and closing orders

Court Administrative Records:

• Register of actions (chronological case summary)
• Court calendars and docket sheets
• Judgment docket
• Fee payment records
• Jury records (limited access)

Each court record also contains a case information sheet with:

• Case number and filing date
• Judge assignment
• Party names and attorney information
• Case type classification
• Disposition information

The completeness of records may vary based on case age, with older records potentially stored in abbreviated format according to the Oregon Judicial Department's Records Management Policy.

How Long Does Multnomah County Keep Court Records?

Multnomah County Circuit Court retains records according to the Oregon Judicial Department Records Retention Schedule, which is established pursuant to ORS § 8.125. This statute authorizes the State Court Administrator to establish retention periods for judicial records. Retention periods vary by record type and case classification:

Criminal Records:

• Felony cases: 75 years from date of final disposition
• Misdemeanor cases: 25 years from date of final disposition
• Violation cases: 10 years from date of final disposition
• Capital punishment cases: Permanent retention
• Expunged records: Destroyed pursuant to court order under ORS § 137.225

Civil Records:

• General civil litigation: 10 years after final disposition
• Small claims: 10 years after final disposition
• Forcible entry and detainer (eviction): 10 years after final disposition
• Domestic relations cases: 75 years from date of filing
• Probate cases: 30 years after case closure
• Guardianship/Conservatorship: 75 years from date of filing
• Civil commitment: 75 years from date of filing

Juvenile Records:

• Dependency cases: 75 years from date of filing
• Delinquency cases: Until age 25 or 10 years, whichever is longer
• Termination of parental rights: Permanent retention

Administrative Records:

• Judgment dockets: 50 years from entry
• Registers of action: 75 years from final disposition
• Court calendars: 2 years
• Jury records: 2 years after jury service
• Exhibits: Returned to parties after appeal period; unclaimed exhibits destroyed after notice

For records that have reached their retention period, the court follows destruction protocols established by the State Court Administrator. However, records with historical significance may be transferred to the Oregon State Archives for permanent preservation rather than destruction.

Digital records are subject to the same retention schedules as paper records, though the storage medium differs. The court maintains backup systems to ensure the integrity and preservation of electronic records throughout their required retention periods.

Types of Courts In Multnomah County

Multnomah County's judicial system consists of several courts operating under Oregon's unified court structure. The Fourth Judicial District encompasses all courts within county boundaries:

Multnomah County Circuit Court
1200 SW 1st Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3957
Multnomah County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Circuit Court is Oregon's court of general jurisdiction and handles the majority of cases in Multnomah County. It is divided into specialized departments:

Civil Court
Multnomah County Courthouse
1200 SW 1st Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3022
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Criminal Court
Justice Center
1120 SW 3rd Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3235
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Family Court
Multnomah County Courthouse
1200 SW 1st Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3022
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Juvenile Court
Donald E. Long Juvenile Justice Center
1401 NE 68th Avenue
Portland, OR 97213
503-988-3460
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Probate Court
Multnomah County Courthouse
1200 SW 1st Avenue, Room 224
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3022
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Small Claims Court
Multnomah County Courthouse
1200 SW 1st Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3022
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Specialty Courts:

• Drug Court
• Mental Health Court
• DUII Intensive Supervision Program
• Community Court
• Veterans Court

These specialty courts operate within the Circuit Court structure at various locations throughout the county.

Appeals from Multnomah County Circuit Court decisions are heard by:

Oregon Court of Appeals
1163 State Street
Salem, OR 97301
503-986-5555
Oregon Court of Appeals
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Oregon Supreme Court
1163 State Street
Salem, OR 97301
503-986-5555
Oregon Supreme Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The court hierarchy follows a three-tier system: Circuit Court (trial level) → Court of Appeals (intermediate appellate) → Supreme Court (final state authority).

What Types of Cases Do Multnomah County Courts Hear?

Multnomah County courts adjudicate a wide spectrum of legal matters according to jurisdictional parameters established by Oregon law. The case distribution among the courts is as follows:

Multnomah County Circuit Court - Civil Division:

• General civil litigation with claims exceeding $10,000
• Contract disputes and business litigation
• Personal injury and tort claims
• Real property disputes
• Civil appeals from administrative decisions
• Landlord-tenant matters and evictions
• Civil protective orders
• Name changes and other civil petitions
• Tax appeals from local assessments

Multnomah County Circuit Court - Criminal Division:

• Felony prosecutions
• Misdemeanor cases
• Criminal appeals from lower courts
• Post-conviction relief proceedings
• Probation violation hearings
• Extradition proceedings
• Search warrant applications
• Grand jury proceedings
• Traffic violations that include criminal charges

Multnomah County Circuit Court - Family Division:

• Dissolution of marriage (divorce)
• Legal separation proceedings
• Child custody and parenting time determinations
• Child and spousal support matters
• Paternity establishment
• Modifications of family court orders
• Enforcement of support obligations
• Domestic violence restraining orders
• Elderly and disabled person abuse prevention orders
• Adoption proceedings

Multnomah County Circuit Court - Probate Division:

• Decedent estate administration
• Will contests
• Trust administration disputes
• Guardianships for minors
• Guardianships and conservatorships for adults
• Mental health commitment proceedings
• Elder law matters

Multnomah County Circuit Court - Juvenile Division:

• Juvenile delinquency proceedings
• Dependency cases (child abuse and neglect)
• Termination of parental rights
• Juvenile violations
• Emancipation petitions
• Juvenile drug court

Multnomah County Small Claims Court:

• Civil claims not exceeding $10,000
• Simplified procedures without formal representation
• Consumer disputes
• Minor property damage claims
• Debt collection matters under the threshold amount

Specialty Courts:

• Drug Court: Substance abuse-related offenses
• Mental Health Court: Cases involving defendants with mental illness
• DUII Court: Driving under influence cases
• Community Court: Quality of life offenses and low-level crimes
• Veterans Court: Cases involving military veterans

The jurisdiction of these courts is established by ORS Chapter 3 for circuit courts and related statutes for specialty proceedings. Case assignment within the Multnomah County court system follows the Supplementary Local Rules for Multnomah County.

How To Find a Court Docket In Multnomah County

Court dockets in Multnomah County provide chronological summaries of proceedings and filings in specific cases. Members of the public may access these dockets through several methods:

Online Docket Access:

1. Visit the Oregon Judicial Department Records Search portal.
2. Select "Records" from the main menu options.
3. Choose "Multnomah" from the county selection dropdown.
4. Enter search criteria (case number, party name, or attorney).
5. Review the register of actions, which serves as the official docket pursuant to ORS § 7.020.

OECI Subscriber Access:

1. Log in to the Oregon eCourt Case Information system with a subscription account.
2. Search for the specific case using available search parameters.
3. Select the case from search results to view the complete register of actions.
4. Access document images linked to docket entries if available.

In-Person Docket Review:

1. Visit the Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office.
2. Request docket information for specific cases at the public counter.
3. Use public access terminals to view electronic dockets.
4. Request assistance from court staff for older cases not available electronically.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Records Office
1200 SW 1st Avenue, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97204
503-988-3957
Multnomah County Circuit Court Records
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Court Calendars: For upcoming hearings and proceedings:

1. Access the Multnomah County Court Calendars online.
2. Select the appropriate court division or judge.
3. View daily or weekly schedules of hearings.
4. Note that calendars typically display future proceedings rather than historical docket information.

When searching for docket information, users should have:

• Case number (preferred for most accurate results)
• Full names of parties involved
• Approximate date range of case filing
• Case type if known

Docket information available through these methods typically includes:

• Chronological listing of all filings and court actions
• Hearing dates and outcomes
• Document titles and filing dates
• Judicial rulings and orders
• Case status and disposition information

Which Courts in Multnomah County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Oregon's judicial system, "courts of record" are those required by law to maintain verbatim records of proceedings and follow formal rules of procedure. Pursuant to ORS § 1.510, which defines courts of record in Oregon, all circuit courts are designated as courts of record.

Currently, Multnomah County does not have any courts that are classified as "not of record" operating within its jurisdiction. This represents a significant change from historical practice, as prior to court unification in Oregon, the following were non-record courts:

• Justice Courts
• Municipal Courts
• County Courts (when exercising judicial functions)

Following the implementation of Oregon's court unification process, which was completed in 1998 under ORS Chapter 3, all state trial courts in Multnomah County were consolidated into the Circuit Court system, which operates as a court of record.

The distinction between courts of record and those not of record is significant because:

• Courts of record maintain official transcripts or recordings of all proceedings
• Formal rules of evidence and procedure must be followed
• Decisions can be appealed based on the official record
• Judges must be attorneys (with limited exceptions)
• Proceedings have greater precedential value

While all state courts in Multnomah County are courts of record, it should be noted that certain municipal violations may still be processed through the City of Portland's administrative system rather than the judicial branch. These administrative proceedings are not considered court proceedings and do not generate court records as defined by state law.

The Oregon Judicial Department maintains all Multnomah County Circuit Court records in accordance with standards for courts of record, including requirements for verbatim recording of proceedings as specified in the Oregon Rules of Civil Procedure and Uniform Trial Court Rules.

Lookup Court Records in Multnomah County

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