Kennebec County Superior Court – Augusta, ME

Kennebec County Superior Court

The Kennebec County Superior Court is the highest trial court in the county, located within the Capital Judicial Center at 1 Court Street. As a court of general jurisdiction, it handles the most serious legal matters in the region, serving as the primary venue for felony criminal cases, including murder and Class A, B, and C offenses. It is also the only court in the county where jury trials are conducted, ensuring the right to a trial by peers for defendants and civil litigants.

Court Jurisdiction and Cases

The Superior Court has a broad jurisdiction that covers a wide range of complex legal issues. Its docket primarily consists of:

• Criminal Felonies: Processing serious crimes from arraignment through trial and sentencing.
• Civil Litigation: Handling cases where the damages sought exceed the limits of the District Court, as well as cases requesting equitable relief (injunctions).
• Appeals: Serving as an appellate court for decisions made by state and local administrative agencies and the District Court.
• Jury Trials: Managing the selection and seating of grand juries (for indictments) and traverse juries (for trials).

Visiting the Superior Court

Because the Superior Court shares the Capital Judicial Center with the District Court, visitors must adhere to the facility’s strict security protocols. All individuals entering the building are subject to security screening, including metal detectors. Cell phones must be silenced or turned off inside the courtrooms, and taking photographs or videos is strictly prohibited without a judge’s permission. Weapons of any kind are not allowed in the building.

Hours and Accessibility

The Clerk’s Office for the Superior Court is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The court is closed on all state and federal holidays. The facility is fully ADA accessible, ensuring that all members of the public, including those with disabilities, can access the judicial system. Parking is available in the public lots adjacent to the courthouse.