How to File Court Documents in Deschutes County Circuit Court

Deschutes County Circuit Court handles all types of cases in Oregon. Criminal, civil, domestic relations, traffic, juvenile, small claims, and probate cases all go through this trial court.

If you’re being sued in Deschutes County, your case will likely be filed here. You need to know how to respond properly.

Here’s your complete guide to filing documents, understanding court procedures, and protecting your rights.

Three Ways to File Court Documents

You can file your documents with Deschutes County Circuit Court using three methods. Each has different requirements and timelines.

Mail Filing

Send your document with a check for the filing fee. Mail it to 1100 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703.

Include payment with your documents. The court will process your filing when they receive it.

In-Person Filing

Drop off your document at the courthouse. The address is 1100 NW Bond Street, Bend, OR 97703.

Pay the filing fee at the counter. You can use cash, check, or card.

Electronic Filing

Use Oregon’s electronic filing system called OJD eFile. You’ll pay online through the system.

Electronic filing is fastest. You get immediate confirmation of your submission.

Oregon has statewide filing fees for most court filings. These apply whether you’re starting a case or responding to one.

How to Answer a Debt Lawsuit

Been sued for debt in Deschutes County? Your first step is filing a written Answer.

You can file it yourself using the methods above. Our partner Solo can also help you prepare and file your response.

Your Answer is a legal document that responds to the collector’s claims. You need to get it right.

Six Tips for Drafting Your Answer

Follow these guidelines to create an effective Answer document.

Keep It Simple

Your Answer isn’t the place for your full story. Focus on responding to each claim in the Complaint.

You have three options for each claim: admit, deny, or deny due to lack of knowledge.

Deny Most Claims

Deny as many claims as legally possible. Force the debt collector to prove their case.

They must provide evidence for every claim you deny.

Include Affirmative Defenses

Affirmative defenses are legal reasons the collector shouldn’t win. The statute of limitations is a common defense.

Debt collectors have limited time to sue for a debt. If that time has passed, the lawsuit is void.

Use Standard Formatting

Include a caption at the top of your Answer. List the court information, party names, and case number.

Courts expect specific formatting. Follow local court rules exactly.

Add a Certificate of Service

You must serve your Answer to the debt collector. Include a certificate of service at the end.

Document the address where you sent the collector’s copy.

Sign Your Document

Courts reject unsigned documents. Sign and date your Answer before filing.

Your signature verifies that the information is true and accurate.

Payment Methods for Filing Fees

Deschutes County Circuit Court accepts multiple payment methods. Choose what works best for you.

• Major credit cards
• Debit cards
• eChecks
• Personal checks
• Cash (in-person only)

Online payments are processed by Point and Pay. You can also make credit card payments over the phone.

Understanding Court Appearances in Deschutes County

Court appearances happen on specific days and times. You need to know when and where to appear.

Redmond Court Sessions

Deschutes County Justice Court holds sessions in Redmond. Appearances are scheduled on Mondays at 9 am and 5 pm.

Wednesday sessions are at 9 am. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in.

Sisters and La Pine Sessions

Some citations list Sisters or La Pine court sessions. These follow different schedules.

Sisters court sessions happen on the third Wednesday evening of even months. La Pine sessions are the first Wednesday of odd months.

Written Appearances

You’re not required to appear in person for violations. Send or drop off a letter within 7 days of your scheduled appearance.

Request a reschedule or state your position in writing. Written appearances get the same consideration as in-person appearances.

The judge will mail you the decision. Make sure the court has your correct mailing address.

You can pay fines online, by mail, or by phone.

Probate Court in Deschutes County

Probate matters are handled by the Circuit Court in Oregon. Deschutes County Circuit Court has a probate division.

Most Oregon counties have at least one Circuit Court location. Some have multiple courthouses with probate services.

Finding the Probate Division

Signs at the courthouse will direct you to the probate division. It’s within the main courthouse but has its own area.

Reception desk staff can help you find a probate clerk or judge. Call ahead to see if you need an appointment.

What to Expect at the Courthouse

Arrive early because parking can be limited. Security is strict at all courthouse locations.

You’ll go through a metal detector. All belongings will be searched.

You may not be able to bring your cell phone inside. Turn it off or leave it in your car.

Essential Items for Your Court Hearing

Going to a hearing or trial at Deschutes County Circuit Court? Bring these items:

1. Cash or checkbook for fees or fines
2. All relevant paperwork and court documents
3. Evidence like photos, bills, receipts, or contracts
4. Witnesses if applicable
5. Government-issued ID

Being prepared reduces stress and shows the court you’re serious.

Getting Help With Your Debt Lawsuit

Facing a debt lawsuit can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to handle it alone.

Our partner Solo helps you respond to debt collectors and file your Answer. The service asks you simple questions and creates your legal document.

An attorney reviews every document before filing. You get professional help at an affordable price.