"The mission of Spokane County Superior Court is to administer justice with fairness, equality, integrity, to resolve matters before the court in a timely manner with trained and motivated staff, and to provide courteous and prompt service in a manner that inspires public trust and confidence." Come observe our justice system in action by visiting Superior Court.  You can sit in the audience of real trials, watch first appearances where the defendant is shown on a TV in the courtroom while he sits in jail, or view guilty pleas, sentences, and arraignments. 

Most trials and hearings are open to the public. Citizens are encouraged to attend and become more familiar with their courts. Spokane County Superior Court is one of 39 Superior Courts in Washington. There is one Superior Court serving each county, although some smaller counties have been combined to form 31 judicial districts. Spokane County has 12 Superior Court Judges elected to four-year terms. In addition to certain special assignments, Spokane County Superior Court Judges and Commissioners hear and decide cases assigned to them by the Presiding Judge. 

We recommend you learn more about Superior Court and the roles and responsibilities of Superior Court Judges and Commissioners before attending this activity.  You may also want to view the Superior Court Calendar and Case Assignments by Date and the Daily Court Room Assignments.  Additional optional reading: Washington State Court Rules : Spokane County Superior Court and Local Court Notices, Resources, Rules.

Note:  This activity is not like a typical Exploring Families tour, in the sense that a representative of the building will walk us around and explain things that go on there.  A person from the court's administrative office will give us information and suggestions on what's available to view when we are there.  With this information, you can choose to access the courtrooms that you want to.  You will probably want to visit 2-3 courtrooms for about 30-60 minutes each.  

Ages: The content of this activity is designed for students in grades 7-12.  Keep in mind that some of the courts are discussing criminal behavior.  Therefore this activity is not recommended for younger children.

What to wear: You are going to observe a business environment where people are wearing professional attire.  Please dress to respect the court.

Cost: Free

Tour limits: 15 people