Olympia DUI Penalties and Protocols

In 2026, changes were made regarding the prosecution of Olympia DUI, Assault – Domestic Violence, and other misdemeanor cases. The Olympia Municipal Court is now handled by Thurston County District Court judges. Essentially, all City of Olympia criminal case have been absorbed by Thurston County.

While the “court” technically moved, the prosecutors stayed the same. We like the fact. The Olympia prosecutor’s office has consistent staffing and this means it is easier to manage discovery and negotiations. 

When offices are short staffed or have new staff, cases can move much slower and negotiations are more challenging with new inexperienced prosecutors. For continuity and predictably of outcomes, it is best to have experienced prosecutors.

DUI in Thurston County / Olympia

While Olympia cases are now heard at Thurston District Court, they are not mixed in with Thurston cases. They have their own separate calendar that a Thurston District Judge will oversee. This can be relevant if you are looking for your court room, court date, or zoom link.

If you are Witt Law Group client, we will make sure you get the appropriate date, time, and links for attending court so there is no need to stress about deciphering court calendars.

If you have an old Olympia Municipal criminal case that you are paying restitution on, be aware that you must now pay those fines and fees to Thurston District Court (make sure all payments include reference to your case and you keep a receipt!). 

New DUI or other criminal defense cases in District Court will be directed to the District Court Clerk’s office to make payments on fines or restitution. Since you will be at the Thurston Courthouse, it will be obvious where you need to go. Again, keep documentation for all payments made on your case!

If you have a pending DUI case or other misdemeanor case in Olympia and want the best counsel for your situation, reach out to one of our attorneys. We are here 7 days a week to take your call.