Founded in 1885, Ward County is the fourth-most populous county in North Dakota. Its population is over 69,000, and the median household income is $78,143. The county seat and largest city are Minot.

Courts in Ward County

The trial court system in Ward County consists of a District Court and four Municipal Courts. Residents of Ward County are served by the North Central Judicial District Court, which has broad jurisdiction over criminal and civil proceedings. The court also has a Juvenile Court Division that deals with cases involving unruly, delinquent, or deprived juveniles. In addition, the District Court handles cases relating to administrative agencies in Ward County. Probate cases and family matters are also within the jurisdiction of the District Court.

Ward County Municipal Courts operate in Burlington, Kenmare, Minot, and Surrey. These courts have the authority to hear traffic offenses and violations of municipal ordinances.

Where to Find Public Court Records in Ward County

The Clerk of the District Court is the official record keeper for all cases handled by the Ward County District Court. These records are available online and can be searched by name, citation number, or case number. The site also enables anyone to search for court calendars and information about court dates and times. Interested residents may also request records from the Clerk’s office in person or by calling  (701) 857-6600.

The public records of Ward County Municipal Courts may be accessed physically at the courthouse that heard the case.

Types of Public Court Records in Ward County

Public court records are publicly available documents and information generated from court cases. Examples of public court records in Ward County include:

• Orders and judgments
• Pleadings
• Trial exhibits and evidence
• Transcripts
• Court calendar

Confidential Court Records in Ward County

Although court records are generally open for public inspection, certain records remain undisclosed. This is because these records are considered confidential by law or court order. Some examples of confidential court records in Ward County include:

• Records relating to domestic violence victims
• Juvenile court cases
• Psychological evaluations and substance abuse treatment records
• Records dealing with adoption and paternity
• Mental health commitment cases.

Juvenile Delinquency in Ward, ND

Unfortunately, in many areas of the Ward County, juvenile delinquency offenses are on the rise. There are many reasons for the inflation in youth offenders. The juvenile sentence in North Dakota often depends on the severity of the crime, the number of charges, and other family matters.

A lot of counties, including, Ward County, are focusing on family counseling and relationships rather than punishment for juvenile crimes. Future Ward County juvenile delinquency tallies will show whether or not this approach is working.

Government of Ward County, ND

https://www.nd.gov/

County Seat:	Minot
Government Type:	County
Authority:	Home Rule
Year Organized:	1885
Total Square Miles:	2,056
2019 Population:	68,946
Persons/Square Mile:	0.03
County Contact:	PO BOX 5005 County Courthouse Minot , ND 58702-5005 http://www.co.ward.nd.us

Ward County, ND Courts