Magistrate Court

Magistrate Court Judges hear less serious criminal matters, know as misdemeanors, and can handle civil cases where the amount of money involved does not exceed $10,000.  Magistrate Judges also hold preliminary hearings to determine whether to bind over and send a defendant to the District Court for trial on felony charge(s).  Magistrate Judges may also issue warrants of arrest and search warrants.  Magistrate Judges handle habeas corpus proceedings, probate cases (will and estates), juvenile cases, and domestic relation cases, such as divorce, alimony, child support and child custody.  

Magistrate Judges presiding over Bingham County Cases
Scott H. Hansen
James H. Barrett
Cleve B. Colson

Magistrate Judges also sit as judges in the "people's court", the Small Claims Department.  Small claims involve civil disputes where less than $5,000 is in question.  These cases are heard informally without attorneys being present.  

The Court Assistance Office provides resources, court forms, document review and legal information for people who want to represent themselves in court (they cannot assist in criminal proceedings), or who are unable to afford an attorney and would otherwise be unable to get their day in court.  You can reach the Court Assistance Office as follows:

Jessica Nichols, Court Assistance Officer
605 North Capital Ave
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402
Phone: (208) 589-9872 (text or message)
Email: D7cao@idcourts.gov
http://www.courtselfhelp.idaho.gov