The court that touches your life most directly.
District Court is where most Daviess County residents will encounter the judicial system. Here is what that bench actually does — and why the person sitting in it matters.
The cases that affect families and communities every day.
District Court hears the widest variety of cases in the judicial system. The person on that bench touches more lives than any other judge.
Traffic violations
Speeding tickets, DUIs, license suspensions, and other moving violations.
Misdemeanors
Shoplifting, disorderly conduct, minor drug offenses, and other criminal charges that carry up to 12 months in jail.
Felony preliminary hearings
The first court appearance for serious charges like assault, robbery, and drug trafficking. District Court determines whether there is enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court.
Search/Arrest Warrants
On-call 24-7 for law enforcement in the issuing of warrants.
Landlord-tenant disputes
Evictions, lease violations, and housing disagreements.
Small claims
Disputes involving smaller dollar amounts, resolved without attorneys in most cases.
Juvenile cases
Cases involving minors, including delinquency, status offenses, and dependency.
Mental health proceedings
Casey’s Law petitions, involuntary commitment hearings (202A / 202B), and Assisted Outpatient Treatment Court.
Guardianship & conservatorship
Legal proceedings to protect individuals who cannot care for themselves.
The court that touches your life most directly.
District Court judges hear more cases and interact with more members of the community than any other judge in the system. The person on that bench sets the tone for how people experience the justice system.
A good District Court judge communicates clearly, follows the law, treats every person with respect, and is available when the community needs them.
This is not a ceremonial position. It is a working job that requires preparation, discipline, and a genuine commitment to service.
Phillip Page has worked in every area of law that comes through District Court.
He has prosecuted criminal cases, mediated family disputes, handled juvenile matters, and served in guardianship and mental health proceedings. The cases that come through District Court are not theory for him — they are work he has already done.