Deemed Arizona’s official Christmas City, Prescott is the county seat of Yavapai County, Arizona, with a population of approximately 43,000. It served as capital of Arizona until the legislature permanently moved it to Phoenix on February 4, 1889. The city is named after author William H. Prescott, whose writings were popular during the Civil War.
In August 2009, Prescott Unified School District and City of Prescott settled a lawsuit stemming from a May 2007 incident involving student Timothy Seastrand, who suffered injuries during a city-organized after-school activity held at the Prescott Mile High Middle School. The suit claimed neurological damage to Seastrand, requiring substantial medical costs. The original suit sought $850,000 to $1 million in damages, but ultimately settled for $75,000.
Civil disputes arising in Prescott that involve large amounts of money are heard in the Yavapai County Superior Court, located in Prescott. The Superior Court possesses exclusive jurisdiction over civil disputes involving amounts over $10,000, felony charges, and probate matters. This means that such cases may only be heard by the Superior Court. The Superior Court shares its jurisdiction with more local courts over misdemeanors, domestic relations and juvenile matters.
The Prescott Justice Court handles misdemeanors, traffic violations, protection orders, and civil disputes under $10,000. It also presides over preliminary hearings for felonies, and houses the city’s small claims court, which involves amounts $2,500 and under. The Prescott Municipal Court may also handle misdemeanors, traffic violations, and other ordinance violations, but its jurisdiction is restricted to within the city limits of Prescott.
Whether it is personal injury, a family dispute, or a criminal charge, it is important for any individual to understand the legal recourses at his or her disposal. There are several attorneys with various specialties practicing in the Prescott area, and LegalMatch can match you, for free, with one that fits your needs. Visit our website to learn how to hire the right lawyer for you.
For more legal resources in and around the Prescott area, please visit the following websites:
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Arizona Law Library