reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §115. Place for holding court; suitable quarters

§115. Place for holding court; suitable quarters
In each county, the place for holding court is located in a building designated by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Chief Justice's designee, who, with the advice and approval of the Bureau of General Services, is empowered to negotiate, on behalf of the State, the leases, contracts and other arrangements the Chief Justice considers necessary, within the limits of appropriations and other funds available to the Supreme Judicial, Superior and District Courts, to provide suitable quarters, adequately furnished and equipped, for the Supreme Judicial, Superior or District Court in each county. The county commissioners in each county shall continue to provide for the use of the Supreme Judicial, Superior and District Courts such quarters, facilities, furnishings and equipment in existing county buildings as were in use by the Supreme Judicial and Superior Courts on January 1, 1976, without charge. The county commissioners are not required to provide without charge those quarters, facilities, furnishings and equipment in existing county buildings that were in use by the District Courts and were subject to a charge prior to January 1, 1976.   [RR 2009, c. 1, §4 (COR).]
The facilities of the courts in each county, when court is not in session, must be available for other purposes. Arrangements for such use must be made by the Chief Justice or the Chief Justice's designee.   [PL 2009, c. 1, Pt. J, §1 (AMD).]
If the Chief Justice or the Chief Justice's designee is unable to negotiate the leases, contracts and other arrangements as provided in this section, the Chief Justice may, with the advice and approval of the Bureau of General Services, negotiate on behalf of the State the leases, contracts and other arrangements the Chief Justice considers necessary, within the limits of the budget and funds available to such court, to provide suitable quarters, adequately furnished and equipped for the Supreme Judicial, Superior or District Court in privately owned buildings.   [PL 2009, c. 1, Pt. J, §1 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 383, §4 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 408, §12 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 735, §3 (RP). PL 1975, c. 735, §4 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 6 (AMD). PL 1981, c. 647, §1 (AMD). PL 2009, c. 1, Pt. J, §1 (AMD). RR 2009, c. 1, §4 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §115-A. Closure of Superior Courts

§115-A. Closure of Superior Courts
A Superior Court location, as authorized under the provisions of this chapter, may not be closed unless approved by an act of the Legislature.   [PL 1993, c. 675, Pt. J, §2 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1993, c. 707, §J2 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §116. Funds of court

§116. Funds of court
All revenue received by the Supreme Judicial Court or Superior Court, whether directly or pursuant to an agreement entered into with the Department of Administrative and Financial Services, Bureau of Revenue Services, from fines, forfeitures, penalties, fees and costs accrues to the State, except as otherwise provided under section 1057; Title 7, section 3910‑A; Title 12, section 10203; Title 17, section 1015; Title 23, section 1653; Title 29‑A, section 2602; and Title 34‑A, section 1210‑E, subsection 8.   [PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §2 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §3 (AFF).]
Funds received by the clerk as bail in criminal cases must be deposited daily in a special account. The clerk shall deposit the funds in an interest-bearing account unless the clerk determines that it is not cost effective to do so. Interest accrued in such an account is the property of and accrues to the State. The forfeiture and setoff of bail is as otherwise provided by law.   [PL 1991, c. 132, §1 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 383, §4 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 408, §12 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 735, §3 (RP). PL 1987, c. 339, §1 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 501, Pt. P, §1 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 132, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, Pt. A, §§153,C15 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 24, Pt. II, §5 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 357, §1 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 617, §1 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 698, §1 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 698, §7 (AFF). PL 2003, c. 20, Pt. R, §1 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 20, Pt. R, §10 (AFF). PL 2007, c. 377, §1 (AMD). PL 2007, c. 377, §17 (AFF). PL 2021, c. 676, Pt. B, §1 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §2 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §3 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §117. Other expenses of the court

§117. Other expenses of the court
Within the limits of the funds and appropriations available to the Superior and Supreme Judicial Courts, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court or the Chief Justice's designee may authorize the expenditure of funds for such other expenses and capital improvements as are reasonably necessary for the efficient operation of the Superior and Supreme Judicial Courts.   [PL 2019, c. 475, §41 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 383, §4 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 408, §12 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 735, §3 (RP). PL 1975, c. 735, §5 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 475, §41 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §120. Justice of the Superior Court to sit in District Court

§120. Justice of the Superior Court to sit in District Court
The Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court may assign a Justice of the Superior Court who had been serving as a Judge of the District Court and who has been nominated and confirmed as a Justice of the Superior Court to sit in the District Court in order to finish any cases that the justice had presided over as a Judge of the District Court and that remain unresolved after the justice's confirmation.   [PL 2019, c. 475, §42 (AMD).]
When so assigned, the justice has the same authority and jurisdiction in the District Court as a regular Judge of the District Court. The assigned justice may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Judge of the District Court may hear and issue.   [PL 1987, c. 769, Pt. B, §2 (RPR).]
The order of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court directing a Justice of the Superior Court to sit in the District Court shall be filed with the Executive Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court, but need not be docketed or otherwise recorded in any case heard by the assigned justice.   [PL 1989, c. 502, Pt. A, §8 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1987, c. 577 (NEW). PL 1987, c. 769, §B2 (RPR). PL 1989, c. 502, §A8 (AMD). PL 2019, c. 475, §42 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §121. Justice or Active Retired Justice of Superior Court assigned to sit in District Court

§121. Justice or Active Retired Justice of Superior Court assigned to sit in District Court
A Justice or an Active Retired Justice of the Superior Court may be assigned by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the District Court and when so directed the justice has authority and jurisdiction in the District Court as if the justice were a regular judge of that court; and whenever the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court so directs, the justice may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Judge of the District Court is authorized to hear and issue.   [PL 1999, c. 547, §4 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, §80 (AFF).]
The order of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court directing a Justice or an Active Retired Justice of the Superior Court to sit in the District Court must be filed with the Executive Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court, but need not be docketed or otherwise recorded in any case heard by that justice.   [PL 1999, c. 547, §4 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, §80 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1989, c. 891, §A1 (NEW). PL 1999, c. 547, §B4 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 547, §B80 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 3: SUPERIOR COURT › 4 §122. Annual training; domestic violence and child abuse issues

§122. Annual training; domestic violence and child abuse issues
The Chief Justice of the Superior Court shall establish annual training and education designed to inform Justices of the Superior Court on domestic violence and child abuse, neglect and maltreatment issues.   [PL 2021, c. 723, §2 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 2021, c. 723, §2 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §154. Districts

§154. Districts
The judicial divisions are organized into 13 districts, as follows, with the place for holding court shown in parentheses after the name of each division:
1.  First District.
The first district consists of the divisions of Eastern Aroostook (Caribou) and Western Aroostook (Madawaska, Fort Kent and Van Buren).
[PL 1965, c. 228, §2 (AMD).]
2.  Second District.
The 2nd district consists of the divisions of Central Aroostook (Presque Isle) and Southern Aroostook (Houlton).
3.  Third District.
The 3rd district consists of the divisions of Southern Penobscot (Bangor) and Western Penobscot (Newport).
[PL 1965, c. 237, §2 (AMD).]
4.  Fourth District.
The 4th district consists of the divisions of Northern Washington (Calais) and Southern Washington (Machias).
5.  Fifth District.
The 5th district consists of the divisions of Hancock (Ellsworth) and Waldo (Belfast).
[PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. C, §7 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 397, Pt. C, §8 (AFF).]
6.  Sixth District.
The 6th district consists of the divisions of Bath-Brunswick (Bath, West Bath or Brunswick), Lincoln (Wiscasset) and Knox (Rockland).
[PL 1989, c. 891, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]
7.  Seventh District.
The 7th district consists of the divisions of Northern Kennebec (Waterville) and Southern Kennebec (Augusta).
[PL 1965, c. 425, §3 (AMD).]
8.  Eighth District.
The 8th district consists of the divisions of Androscoggin (Lewiston).
[PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. JJJ, §4 (AMD).]
9.  Ninth District.
The 9th district consists of the divisions of Southern Cumberland (Portland) and Northern Cumberland (Bridgton).
[PL 1965, c. 425, §3 (AMD).]
10.  Tenth District.
The 10th district consists of the division of York (Biddeford or any other court facility in the division).
[PL 2021, c. 633, §4 (AMD); PL 2021, c. 633, §5 (AFF).]
11.  Eleventh District.
The 11th district consists of the divisions of Northern Oxford (Rumford) and Southern Oxford (South Paris).
[PL 2003, c. 673, Pt. JJJ, §5 (AMD).]
12.  Twelfth District.
The 12th district consists of the divisions of Somerset (Skowhegan) and Franklin (Farmington).
[PL 1965, c. 237, §4 (AMD).]
13.  Thirteenth District.
The 13th district consists of the divisions of Piscataquis (Dover-Foxcroft), Northern Penobscot (Millinocket) and Central Penobscot (Lincoln).
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1965, c. 228, §2 (AMD). PL 1965, c. 237, §§2-4 (AMD). PL 1965, c. 425, §3 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 654, §§2,3 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 133, §2 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 98, §3 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 891, §A5 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 673, §§JJJ4,5 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 397, §C7 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 397, §C8 (AFF). PL 2021, c. 633, §4 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 633, §5 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §156. Rules

§156. Rules
1.  Pending new rules.
Pending promulgation of new rules as provided in subsection 2:
A. The rules of procedure now in effect for cases and proceedings within the jurisdiction vested by this chapter in the District Court shall apply.
B. Appeals from the District Court shall be heard de novo in the Superior Court.
2.  Rules.
The Supreme Judicial Court is empowered to make and amend rules of procedure for the District Court and for appeals from the District Court.
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §157-A. Compensation upon retirement (REPEALED)

§157-A. Compensation upon retirement
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1973, c. 417, §2 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 701, §4 (AMD). PL 1981, c. 488, §§5,6 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 167, §3 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 853, §§C11,18 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §157-B. Active retired judges; appointment

§157-B. Active retired judges; appointment
Any Judge of the District Court who has retired from the court under this chapter prior to December 1, 1984, or any Judge of the District Court who retires or terminates that judge's service on the court in accordance with chapter 27, except for a disability retirement, is eligible for appointment as an Active Retired Judge of the District Court as provided. The Governor, subject to review by the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over judiciary matters and to confirmation by the Legislature, may appoint any eligible judge to be an Active Retired Judge of the District Court for a term of 7 years, unless sooner removed. That judge may be reappointed for a like term. Any judge so appointed and designated thereupon constitutes a part of the court from which that judge has retired and has the same jurisdiction and is subject to the same restrictions therein as before retirement. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may serve as an arbitrator and conduct arbitration in accordance with rules that may be adopted by the Supreme Judicial Court, except that nothing in this section requires the Supreme Judicial Court to adopt those rules. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may chair screening panels in accordance with Title 24, chapter 21, subchapter 4‑A. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may act only in those cases and matters and hold court only at those sessions and times as that judge is directed and assigned by the Chief Judge of the District Court. Any Active Retired Judge of the District Court may be directed by the Chief Judge to hold any session of the District Court in any district and when so directed has authority and jurisdiction therein the same as if that judge were the regular judge of that court and, whenever the Chief Judge of the District Court so orders, may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Judge of that District Court is authorized to hear and issue. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court receives reimbursement for expenses actually and reasonably incurred in the performance of that judge's duties. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court may be assigned by the Chief Judge of the District Court to act as a mediator for the foreclosure mediation program in accordance with Title 14, section 6321‑A, subsection 7.   [PL 2009, c. 402, §3 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1973, c. 417, §3 (NEW). PL 1975, c. 771, §20 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 692, §§3,4 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 416, §3 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 853, §§C12,18 (AMD). PL 2009, c. 136, §2 (AMD). PL 2009, c. 402, §3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §157-C. Judge or Active Retired Judge of the District Court to sit in Superior Court

§157-C. Judge or Active Retired Judge of the District Court to sit in Superior Court
A Judge or an Active Retired Judge of the District Court may be assigned by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court to sit in the Superior Court in any county and when so directed has authority and jurisdiction therein as if a regular Justice of the Superior Court; and whenever the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court so directs, that judge may hear all matters and issue all orders, notices, decrees and judgments that any Justice of the Superior Court is authorized to hear and issue.   [PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §4 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]
No Judge or Active Retired Judge of the District Court so sitting in the Superior Court may act in any case in which that judge has sat in the District Court nor in which that judge otherwise has an interest.   [PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §4 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]
The order of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Judicial Court directing a Judge or an Active Retired Judge of the District Court to sit in the Superior Court must be filed with the Executive Clerk of the Supreme Judicial Court, but need not be docketed or otherwise recorded in any case heard by that judge.   [PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §4 (AMD); PL 1999, c. 547, Pt. B, §80 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1979, c. 12, §2 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 112 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 547, §B8 (AMD). PL 1999, c. 547, §B80 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §157-D. Active retired judges; compensation

§157-D. Active retired judges; compensation
Any Active Retired Judge of the District Court who performs judicial service at the direction and assignment of the Chief Judge of the District Court is compensated for those services at the rate of $350 per day or $200 per 1/2 day, as long as the total compensation received under this section by an Active Retired Judge of the District Court in any calendar year does not exceed 75% of the annual salary of an Associate Judge of the District Court set pursuant to section 157. An Active Retired Judge of the District Court who receives compensation under this section does not accrue additional creditable service for benefit calculation purposes and is not entitled to any other employee benefit, including health, dental or life insurance.   [PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. XXXX, §3 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1983, c. 853, §§C13,18 (NEW). PL 1989, c. 501, §§O17,22 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 596, §C8 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 824, §§B13,14 (AFF). PL 1997, c. 643, §M10 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 439, §DDD2 (AMD). PL 2017, c. 284, Pt. XXXX, §3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §157-E. Judge or Active Retired Judge of District Court assigned to sit in Administrative Court (REPEALED)

§157-E. Judge or Active Retired Judge of District Court assigned to sit in Administrative Court
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1989, c. 891, §A6 (NEW). PL 1999, c. 547, §B9 (RP). PL 1999, c. 547, §B80 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §158. Ex officio, notary public; may administer oaths

§158. Ex officio, notary public; may administer oaths
Judges and clerks of the District Court are, ex officio, notaries public, and all their official acts, attested by them in either capacity, except those pertaining to the exclusive jurisdiction of judges and clerks of District Courts, are of equal effect. Judges and clerks of the District Court may administer all oaths required by law, unless another officer is specifically required to do it.   [PL 1981, c. 456, §3 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 456, §A3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §159. Clerks; appointment

§159. Clerks; appointment
For each division, for the violations bureau and for the office of the Chief Judge, the Chief Judge shall appoint clerks and deputy clerks as necessary. A clerk of the Superior Court may also serve as the clerk of the District Court. If the business of any division or the violations bureau does not require the full-time service of a clerk, the Chief Judge may appoint a part-time clerk for that division or violations bureau. Whenever the clerk is unable to perform the duties of that office or so directs, the deputy has all the power and performs all the duties of clerk. Whenever a clerk is absent or temporarily unable to perform the duties as clerk and there is no deputy clerk authorized or available to exercise the powers and perform the duties of clerk and an existing or immediate session of the court renders it necessary, the Chief Judge may designate a clerk pro tempore who has the same powers and duties of the clerk.   [PL 1995, c. 560, Pt. I, §14 (AMD).]
The clerk of the District Court may sign notices to appear in court for hearings on nonpayment of fines, counsel fees or restitution.   [PL 1997, c. 135, §2 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1973, c. 83 (AMD). PL 1983, c. 131, §1 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 549, §1 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF). PL 1995, c. 560, §I14 (AMD). PL 1997, c. 135, §2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §160. Clerks, taking of bail authorized (REPEALED)

§160. Clerks, taking of bail authorized
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1965, c. 356, §2 (AMD). PL 1967, c. 134 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 758, §1 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §161. Justice of the peace; appointment; duties; salary

§161. Justice of the peace; appointment; duties; salary
The Chief Judge of the District Court may authorize any attorney-at-law, who is duly licensed to practice law in the State, to receive complaints and to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses, to issue search warrants and to endorse certificates of commitment of the mentally ill, all in accordance with law, and to perform all other such acts and duties that are or may be authorized by law. The powers to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses and to issue search warrants extend to offenses subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Passamaquoddy Tribe or the Penobscot Nation under the terms of Title 30, section 6209‑A or 6209‑B. That attorney may be known as a justice of the peace.   [PL 1995, c. 388, §1 (AMD); PL 1995, c. 388, §8 (AFF).]
The justice of the peace shall serve at the pleasure of the Chief Judge of the District Court, but no term for which a justice of the peace is appointed may exceed 5 years.   [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (AMD).]
The justice of the peace shall receive such salary as shall be determined by the Chief Judge and paid as an expense of the District Court.   [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (AMD).]
The Chief Judge of the District Court may also authorize any clerk or deputy clerk of the District Court to issue process for the arrest of persons charged with offenses if the Chief Judge is satisfied that the clerk or deputy clerk has the necessary training and learning to perform that function. When acting in that capacity, the clerk or deputy clerk shall be considered a justice of the peace and shall serve at the pleasure of the Chief Judge.   [PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1967, c. 420 (AMD). PL 1967, c. 434, §1 (AMD). PL 1973, c. 216 (RPR). PL 1985, c. 737, §A12 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 736, §3 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 484, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 388, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 388, §8 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §162. Place for holding court; suitable quarters

§162. Place for holding court; suitable quarters
In each division, the place for holding court must be located in a state, county or municipal building designated by the Chief Judge who, with the advice and approval of the Bureau of General Services, is empowered to negotiate on behalf of the State the leases, contracts and other arrangements the Chief Judge considers necessary, within the limits of the budget and the funds available, to provide suitable quarters, adequately furnished and equipped for the District Court in each division.   [PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. B, §4 (AMD).]
The facilities of the Superior Court in each county when that court is not in session must be available for use by the District Court of that division in which such facilities are located. Arrangements for such use must be made by the Chief Judge.   [PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. B, §1 (AMD).]
If the Chief Judge is unable to negotiate the leases, contracts and other arrangements as provided in this section, the Chief Judge may, with the advice and approval of the Bureau of General Services, negotiate on behalf of the State, the leases, contracts and other arrangements the Chief Judge considers necessary, within the limits of the budget and funds available, to provide suitable quarters, adequately furnished and equipped for the District Court in privately owned buildings.   [PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. B, §4 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. B, §1 (AMD). PL 2011, c. 691, Pt. B, §4 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §163. Funds

§163. Funds
1.  District Court funds.
Except as otherwise provided by law, all fines, forfeitures, surcharges, assessments and fees collected in any division of the District Court or by the violations bureau must be paid to the clerk of that District Court, who shall deposit them in a special account in a timely manner. Once each month, the clerk shall remit the sums to the Treasurer of State, who shall credit them to the General Fund. At the same time, the clerk shall remit the sums that have been collected in accordance with section 1057; Title 5, chapter 316‑A; Title 7, section 3910‑A; Title 17, section 1015; Title 29‑A, section 2411, subsection 7; and Title 34‑A, section 1210‑E, subsection 8. Funds received by the clerk as bail in criminal cases must be deposited daily in a special account. The clerk shall deposit the funds in an interest-bearing account unless the clerk determines that it is not cost-effective to do so. Interest accrued in the account is the property of and accrues to the State. The forfeiture and setoff of bail is governed as otherwise provided by law.
[PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §4 (AMD); PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §5 (AFF).]
2.  Expenses.
The Treasurer of State shall pay all sums of money produced by cases in the District Court which shall become due to state departments and agencies, municipalities, and state, county and municipal offices.
[PL 1967, c. 449, §2 (RPR).]
3.  District Court Building Fund.
[PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. B, §2 (RP).]
4.  Balance to State.
The balance remaining in the District Court Fund after paying or setting aside the sums described in this section shall accrue to the State.
[PL 1975, c. 735, §6 (RPR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1967, c. 449, §§1-3 (AMD). PL 1971, c. 97, §1 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 383, §§4-A (AMD). PL 1975, c. 408, §13 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 735, §6 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 127, §13 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 339, §2 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 501, §P3 (AMD). RR 1991, c. 2, §4 (COR). PL 1991, c. 132, §2 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 549, §2 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF). PL 1991, c. 806, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, §A3 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, §§A153,C15 (AFF). PL 1999, c. 357, §2 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 617, §2 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 698, §2 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 698, §7 (AFF). PL 2003, c. 20, §R2 (AMD). PL 2003, c. 20, §R10 (AFF). PL 2007, c. 377, §2 (AMD). PL 2007, c. 377, §17 (AFF). PL 2009, c. 415, Pt. B, §2 (AMD). PL 2015, c. 44, §1 (AMD). PL 2021, c. 676, Pt. B, §2 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §4 (AMD). PL 2023, c. 405, Pt. A, §5 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §164-A. Acceptance of fine and guilty plea

§164-A. Acceptance of fine and guilty plea
The clerk of each division may accept a guilty plea to a criminal traffic offense upon payment of a fine and surcharge in accordance with a schedule of offenses and fines established by the Chief Judge. A person tendering payment of a fine without filing a signed waiver is deemed to have read and waived that person's rights, to understand that tendering payment is deemed a waiver and has the same effect as a judgment of the court and to understand that the record of the judgment will be sent to the Secretary of State.   [PL 1991, c. 549, §4 (NEW); PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1991, c. 549, §4 (NEW). PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §164-B. Appointment of clerk (REPEALED)

§164-B. Appointment of clerk
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1991, c. 549, §4 (NEW). PL 1991, c. 549, §17 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §165. District Court; jurisdiction over crimes and juvenile offenses

§165. District Court; jurisdiction over crimes and juvenile offenses
1.  Crimes; under one year imprisonment.
The District Court has jurisdiction and, except as provided in Title 29‑A, section 2602, concurrent jurisdiction with the Superior Court of all crimes, including violation of any statute or a bylaw of a town, village corporation or local health officer and breach of the peace, for which the maximum term of imprisonment to which the defendant may be sentenced upon conviction of that crime is less than one year.
[PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
2.  Juvenile Court.
The District Court has jurisdiction over juvenile offenses pursuant to Title 15, Part 6.
[PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
3.  Crimes; one year or more imprisonment.
The District Court has, concurrent with the Superior Court, original jurisdiction to receive pleas of guilty in criminal cases, other than murder, in which:
A. The maximum term of imprisonment to which the defendant may be sentenced upon conviction of that crime is one year or more;   [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
B. The defendant has in writing waived the defendant's right to indictment by grand jury and the defendant's right to a jury trial; and   [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
C. The defendant has indicated the defendant's intention to enter a plea of guilty to the charges pending against the defendant.   [PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
When exercising such jurisdiction, the District Court possesses all of the powers of the Superior Court. The District Court shall exercise that jurisdiction in the manner that the Supreme Judicial Court by rule provides. Any person sentenced under this subsection is entitled to the rights provided by Title 15, chapter 306‑A.
[PL 2005, c. 326, §1 (AMD); PL 2005, c. 326, §5 (AFF).]
4.  Issue process.
The District Court has jurisdiction to issue process with respect to any violation over which the Passamaquoddy Tribe or the Penobscot Nation exercises exclusive jurisdiction under Title 30, section 6209‑A or 6209‑B.
[PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
5.  Power to sentence.
The District Court may impose any authorized sentencing alternative.
[PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §6 (NEW); PL 1999, c. 731, Pt. ZZZ, §42 (AFF).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 430, §6 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 484, §2 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, §A4 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 65, §§A153,C15 (AFF). PL 1995, c. 388, §2 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 388, §8 (AFF). PL 1999, c. 731, §ZZZ6 (RPR). PL 1999, c. 731, §ZZZ42 (AFF). PL 2005, c. 326, §1 (AMD). PL 2005, c. 326, §5 (AFF).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §168. Examination to determine sanity of accused

§168. Examination to determine sanity of accused
A Judge of the District Court may order a person, who is accused of an offense, to be examined by a physician without delay, to determine whether or not such person is insane. The cost of such examination shall be paid from the treasury of the county in which the action is pending.   [PL 1967, c. 222 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1967, c. 222 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §169. Administration of oaths

§169. Administration of oaths
Judges of the District Court and notaries public may administer all oaths required by law, unless another officer is specially required to do it.   [PL 1981, c. 456, Pt. A, §4 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 456, §A4 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §171. Duty on receipt of complaints

§171. Duty on receipt of complaints
When complaint is made to the proper officer of the District Court charging a person with the commission of a criminal offense, that officer shall issue a warrant for the person's arrest or a summons in such form and under such circumstances as the Supreme Judicial Court may by rule provide.   [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §5 (COR).]
The officer may, and on complaint shall, cause to be arrested persons found within the officer's county or in an adjoining county under the conditions specified in the first paragraph of section 161 charged with offenses; and those having committed offenses therein or in an adjoining county who have escaped therefrom or from an adjoining county; and all persons charged with offenses and crimes, and all affrayers, rioters, breakers of the peace and violators of the law, and may require such offenders to find sureties for keeping the peace.   [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §5 (COR).]
A district judge may try those brought before that judge for offenses within that judge's jurisdiction, although the penalty or fine accrues wholly or partly to that judge's town.   [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §5 (COR).]
Warrants issued by the proper officer of the District Court in criminal cases must be signed by that officer at the time they are issued.   [RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §5 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1965, c. 356, §4 (RPR). PL 1965, c. 425, §4 (AMD). PL 1967, c. 434, §2 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 430, §7 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 731, §3 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 127, §14 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 663, §9 (RPR). PL 1987, c. 758, §3 (AMD). RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §5 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §171-A. Traffic infraction and civil violation complaints

§171-A. Traffic infraction and civil violation complaints
1.  Traffic infraction.
When a complaint is made to the proper officer of the District Court charging a person with the commission of a traffic infraction the officer of the District Court shall cause to be served upon the person a Violation Summons and Complaint or other process in such form and under such circumstances as the Supreme Judicial Court shall by rule provide.
[PL 1991, c. 733, §1 (NEW).]
2.  Civil violations.
When a complaint is made to the proper officer of the District Court charging a person with the commission of a civil violation other than a traffic infraction, the officer of the District Court shall cause to be served upon the person a Uniform Summons and Complaint or other process in such form and under such circumstances as the Supreme Judicial Court shall by rule provide. The clerk of each division may accept an admission to a civil violation upon payment of a fine and surcharge in accordance with a schedule of violations, fines and surcharges, within the limits prescribed by law, established by the Chief Judge, which the Chief Judge may amend.
[PL 2017, c. 329, §1 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 731, §4 (NEW). PL 1991, c. 733, §1 (RPR). PL 2017, c. 329, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §173-A. Costs taxable for the State in civil violation or traffic infraction proceedings

§173-A. Costs taxable for the State in civil violation or traffic infraction proceedings
Costs in the amount of $25 shall be automatically taxable for the State in civil violation and traffic infraction proceedings for failure to pay a fine imposed for the commission of a civil violation or traffic infraction within 30 days of entry of judgment or within 30 days of the date fixed for a final installment payment if the fine is to be paid under a plan approved under Title 14, section 3141, subsection 4.   [PL 1987, c. 708, §1 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 731, §§12-A (NEW). PL 1985, c. 481, §A5 (AMD). PL 1987, c. 414, §1 (RPR). PL 1987, c. 708, §1 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §174. Civil and criminal; overcharging costs (REPEALED)

§174. Civil and criminal; overcharging costs
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1965, c. 19, §2 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 346, §§1-3 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 430, §§16,17 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 731, §13 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 770, §13 (AMD). PL 1985, c. 384, §1 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §175. Fees of District Courts

§175. Fees of District Courts
The Supreme Judicial Court shall have the authority to prescribe rules establishing the fees of the District Courts.   [PL 1979, c. 425, §1 (RPR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 346, §4 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 425, §1 (RPR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §176. Fees for entering an appeal

§176. Fees for entering an appeal
No Judge of a District Court division shall demand or receive any fees for entering an appeal or admitting to bail to prosecute it, in a criminal or traffic infraction case. The legal fees therefor may be taxed in the bill of costs, and certified and paid like other fees.   [PL 1975, c. 430, §18 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1965, c. 356, §6 (AMD). PL 1975, c. 430, §18 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §178. Abstract of record of divorce to be filed with Superior Court (REPEALED)

§178. Abstract of record of divorce to be filed with Superior Court
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1967, c. 129 (NEW). PL 1973, c. 625, §10 (AMD). PL 1979, c. 13, §4 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §179. Administrative search warrants

§179. Administrative search warrants
A District Court Judge may issue warrants to conduct administrative searches in such manner, for such purposes and under such circumstances as the Supreme Judicial Court shall by rule provide.   [PL 1973, c. 486 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1973, c. 486 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 5: DISTRICT COURT › 4 §180. Site inspection warrants

§180. Site inspection warrants
A District Court Judge may issue warrants to conduct surveys and tests on land that is under consideration for purchase or taking through eminent domain by the State or any of its political subdivisions. The Supreme Judicial Court shall provide by rule the manner and circumstances for the issuance of such warrants subject to the following conditions:   [PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
1.  Compelling need.
There is a compelling need for the issuance of the warrant, such as required compliance with state statutes or regulations or protection of the public health, safety or welfare;
[PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
2.  Notice to owner.
The owner of the land shall be served notice at least 14 days prior to the day when any survey or test is initiated;
[PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
3.  Completion within 30 days.
All tests and surveys shall be completed within 30 days of entry;
[PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
4.  Distance from occupied dwelling.
No soils test may be conducted within 200 yards of an occupied dwelling;
[PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
5.  Site restoration.
Upon completion of any soils test or analysis, all holes, pits or trenches created thereby shall be filled in and the site restored as best practicable to its original condition; and
[PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW).]
6.  Compensation for damages.
The owner of land subject to a survey or test has the right to be compensated for any actual damage caused as a result of the surveys and tests. Upon request of the landowner within 30 days after entry on the landowner's premises, the governmental unit shall hold a public hearing to determine whether the landowner is entitled to compensation for actual damages caused by the testing. The governmental unit shall publish a notice of the time and place of hearing in a newspaper having general circulation in its area at least 7 days before the hearing. The governmental unit shall pay the landowner forthwith the amount of compensation to which it determines the landowner is entitled. If the landowner is aggrieved by the decision of the governmental unit, the landowner may appeal to the Superior Court as provided in Rule 80B of the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure.
[RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §7 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1975, c. 753 (NEW). RR 2021, c. 1, Pt. B, §7 (COR).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §191. State Court Library Committee (REPEALED)

§191. State Court Library Committee
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 1983, c. 812, §9 (AMD). PL 1989, c. 503, Pt. B, §7 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 375, §1 (AMD). PL 2001, c. 250, §1 (AMD). PL 2011, c. 204, §1 (AMD). PL 2013, c. 533, §1 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §192. Personnel

§192. Personnel
The State Court Administrator shall employ and shall supervise a professionally trained person, who is designated the State Court Library Supervisor. The supervisor has general supervision of the professional functions of all county law libraries and shall visit all libraries whenever necessary, meet with county law library committees, coordinate activities with the court administrator's offices, advise staff members of the clerks of courts and carry out any additional duties assigned by the State Court Administrator.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §2 (AMD).]
The law libraries in locations without employees are maintained by the offices of the clerks of courts and the duties of each clerk's office are specified by the State Court Administrator.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §2 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 2013, c. 533, §2 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §193. System of law libraries

§193. System of law libraries
There must be a system of law libraries accessible to all citizens within the State.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §3 (AMD).]
These libraries must be located in:
Androscoggin County, Auburn;
Aroostook County, Caribou;
Aroostook County, Houlton;
Cumberland County, Portland;
Franklin County, Farmington;
Hancock County, Ellsworth;
Kennebec County, Augusta;
Knox County, Rockland;
Lincoln County, Wiscasset;
Oxford County, South Paris;
Penobscot County, Bangor;
Piscataquis County, Dover-Foxcroft;
Sagadahoc County, Bath;
Somerset County, Skowhegan;
Waldo County, Belfast;
Washington County, Machias; and
York County, Alfred.
[PL 2001, c. 250, §2 (RPR).]
All funds appropriated by the Legislature for the use and benefit of the law libraries must be paid to the Administrative Office of the Courts and must be disbursed by that office.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §3 (AMD).]
The libraries located at Bangor and Portland are to serve as regional court law library centers. The State Court Administrator or the State Court Administrator's designee shall allocate specific funds, in addition to the resources received by the other law libraries, to the regional court law library centers in Bangor and Portland to purchase legal resources, library equipment and supplies and necessary personnel. Both regional court libraries must receive the same funds.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §3 (AMD).]
All other law libraries must have access to the regional court law library centers for the resources not available locally.   [PL 2011, c. 204, §2 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 1991, c. 622, §N1 (AMD). PL 1991, c. 671, §M1 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 375, §§2,3 (AMD). PL 1993, c. 375, §5 (AFF). PL 1995, c. 55, §1 (AMD). PL 1995, c. 55, §2 (AFF). PL 2001, c. 250, §2 (RPR). PL 2011, c. 204, §2 (AMD). PL 2013, c. 533, §3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §194. Duties of State Court Library Committee (REPEALED)

§194. Duties of State Court Library Committee
(REPEALED)
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 2013, c. 533, §4 (RP).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §195. County law libraries

§195. County law libraries
There must be a County Law Library Committee in each county in which a county law library is located. The members of the committee must be appointed or elected by the county bar association, or other governing body, as its bylaws may provide. Membership on the committee need not be restricted to attorneys. The County Law Library Committee shall appoint a chair, a treasurer and a clerk.   [PL 2001, c. 250, §3 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 2001, c. 250, §3 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §196. Duties, county committee

§196. Duties, county committee
The County Law Library Committee shall establish local operating policies, such as, but not limited to, hours, circulation policies and photocopy privileges. Each county committee shall exercise supervision over the expenditures of private and nonstate funds, including endowments, and may use those funds to upgrade its county law library. Each county committee shall determine space requirements.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §5 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 2001, c. 250, §4 (AMD). PL 2013, c. 533, §5 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §197. Duties of treasurer and clerk

§197. Duties of treasurer and clerk
The treasurer of each County Law Library Committee, under the direction of the County Law Library Committee, shall apply all private and nonstate moneys received, and all bequests and gifts, to form and operate a law library. The clerk shall keep an exact record of all the proceedings of the committee.   [PL 1981, c. 501, §1 (NEW).]
The treasurer shall, annually, before the last Wednesday in July, deposit in the office of the State Court Administrator a statement of the funds received and expended by the treasurer during the preceding fiscal year.   [PL 2013, c. 533, §6 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW). PL 1981, c. 698, §4 (AMD). PL 2013, c. 533, §6 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 6: LAW LIBRARIES › 4 §198. Rules

§198. Rules
The Supreme Judicial Court may promulgate rules to implement the purposes of this chapter.   [PL 1981, c. 501, §1 (NEW).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1981, c. 510, §1 (NEW).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 7: PROBATE COURT › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 4 §201. Courts of record; seal; punishment for contempt

§201. Courts of record; seal; punishment for contempt
Courts of probate are courts of record. Each shall have an official seal, of which the register shall have the custody. They may issue any process necessary for the discharge of their official duties and punish for contempt of their authority.
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 7: PROBATE COURT › Subchapter 1: GENERAL PROVISIONS › 4 §202. Oaths and acknowledgments

§202. Oaths and acknowledgments
All oaths required to be taken by personal representatives, trustees, guardians, conservators, or of any other persons in relation to any proceeding in the probate court, or to perpetuate the evidence of the publication of any order of notice, may be administered by the judge or register of probate or any notary public. A certificate thereof, when taken out of court, shall be returned into the registry of probate and there filed. When any person of whom such oath is required, including any parent acknowledging consent to an adoption, resides temporarily or permanently without the State, the oath or acknowledgment may be taken before and be certified by a notary public without the State, a commissioner for the State of Maine or a United States Consul.   [PL 1981, c. 456, Pt. A, §5 (AMD).]
SECTION HISTORY
PL 1979, c. 540, §6 (AMD). PL 1981, c. 456, §A5 (AMD).
2023 Maine Revised Statutes › TITLE 4: JUDICIARY › Chapter 7: PROBATE COURT › Subchapter 2: JURISDICTION › 4 §251. General jurisdiction

§251. General jurisdiction
Each judge may take the probate of wills and grant letters testamentary or of administration on the estates of all deceased persons who, at the time of their death, were inhabitants or residents of the judge's county or who, not being residents of the State, died leaving estate to be administered in the judge's county, or whose estate is afterwards found therein; and has jurisdiction of all matters relating to the settlement of such estates. A judge may grant leave to adopt children, change the names of persons, appoint guardians for minors and others according to law and has jurisdiction as to persons under guardianship, and as to whatever else is conferred by law, except in cases in which the District Court has jurisdiction over a child pursuant to section 152, subsection 5‑A.   [RR 2015, c. 2, §1 (COR).]
SECTION HISTORY
RR 2015, c. 2, §1 (COR). PL 2015, c. 460, §3 (AMD).