Washington County
Washington County, popularly known as the “Sunrise County," is the fifth largest county in Maine, occupying a land area of 2,563 square miles. Established in 1789, the county was named in honor of the prominent Founding Father George Washington. As of 2022, more than 31,000 residents, and its county seat is the Town of Machias.
Washington County has three trial courts: the Superior, District, and Probate Courts. The Superior Court handles all jury trials in Washington County. It also has exclusive jurisdiction over felony-related crimes, equity cases, and appeals from administrative agencies. Meanwhile, the Calais District Court and Machias District Court in the county typically hear misdemeanors and other minor criminal cases punishable by up to a one-year jail sentence.
The District Courts also resolve civil cases such as monetary claims, personal injuries, contract disputes, and torts. Each District Court in Washington County has specialized divisions tasked with addressing domestic relations cases, juvenile cases, traffic offenses, and small claims. Legal proceedings related to the validation of wills, administration of decedents' estates, guardianships, and conservatorships are exclusive to the Washington County Probate Court.
Washington County public court records contain details of how legal matters are handled in the county's judicial system. These documents provide information on case filings, evidence presented, claims/charges, court transcripts, and judgments. Per the Maine Freedom of Access Act, interested persons can view or request Washington County court records from designated court clerks. Examples of court records available to the public include:
- Civil records
- Criminal court records
- Probate records
- Traffic records
- Family law records
Some court records containing juvenile, adoption, mental health, and other sensitive cases are confidential. Court clerks in Washington County provide confidential records only to the record owners, their attorneys, and individuals permitted through court orders. Public court records are accessible by visiting or calling the court clerk at:
Washington County Courthouse
85 Court Street
Machias, ME 04654-0526
Phone: (207) 255-3326
Individuals interested in viewing Washington County court records online can use the re:Search Maine tool available to only registered subscribers. They can also find court records online via the Maine eCourts, which contain limited information but it is free of charge.
