Judicial System
In DeKalb County, justice is administered through a comprehensive judicial system dedicated to fairness, accountability, and service to the public.
This system includes the Juvenile, Magistrate, Probate, State, and Superior Courts, as well as the Clerks of Court, Sheriff’s Office, Marshal’s Office, Public Defender, District Attorney, and Solicitor-General. Working together, these offices uphold the law, protect individual rights, and ensure equal access to justice for all residents.
Contact Information
DeKalb County Courthouse556 North McDonough Street
Decatur, GA 30030
General Information: 404-371-2000
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday
8:00 AM-5:00 PM (Individual courts may have different schedules)
Court-Specific Contacts
Superior Court: 404-371-2441
State Court: 404-371-2706
Magistrate Court: 404-371-3045
Probate Court: 404-371-2726
Juvenile Court: 404-371-7140
Criminal & Civil Matters
Superior Court
- Felony criminal cases with jury trials
- Civil lawsuits over $15,000
- Divorce and family law matters
- Property disputes and real estate cases
- Contact: Superior Court Website
State Court
- Misdemeanor criminal cases
- Civil claims up to $45,000
- Traffic violations and DUI cases
- Specialized DUI Court program
- Contact: State Court Website
Specialized Courts
Magistrate Court
- Civil disputes $15,000 and under
- Evictions and garnishments
- Foreclosure proceedings
- County ordinance violations
- Criminal arrest warrants
- Contact: Magistrate Court Website
Probate Court
- Estate administration
- Guardianship appointments
- Marriage licenses
- Firearms licenses
- Contact: Probate Court Website
Juvenile Court
- Youth offender cases
- Probation supervision
- Victim protection services
- Secure detention facilities
- Contact: Juvenile Court Website
Court Support Services
Legal Assistance
- Public Defender's Office:
Court-appointed legal representation for qualifying defendants - District Attorney's Office:
Prosecution of felony cases in Superior Court - Solicitor-General's Office:
Prosecution of misdemeanor cases in State Court
Administrative Services
- Clerk of Superior Court:
Court records, land records, tax collection - Clerk of State Court:
State court filing and records management - Sheriff's Office:
Court security and law enforcement - Marshal's Office:
Court security and law enforcement
Additional Resources
- Court Forms and Documents
- Legal Aid Organizations
- Public Defender Services Application
Interpreter Services: Georgia law requires interpreters for hearing impaired individuals and for individuals who do not speak English well enough to participate in a meaningful manner in their own plea or trial. You may make your need for an interpreter known to the Court by submitting a request to the assigned judicial division at least ten (10) days in advance. The cost of the interpreter will be paid by the court as is required by law.
For emergency situations requiring immediate law enforcement response, call 911.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I pay a fine or court fee?
A. Visit our online payment portal or pay in person at the appropriate court clerk's office.
Q. What should I bring to court?
A. Bring valid photo ID, any required documents, and your case number. Leave prohibited items at home (weapons; electronics may be restricted).
Q. How do I find my court date?
A. Check your citation or court documents, call the appropriate court clerk, or search online court records.
Q. Can I represent myself in court?
A. Yes, but consider consulting with an attorney first, especially for serious charges or complex civil matters.
