Frequently Asked Questions

Law enforcement investigates crimes. The Prosecuting Attorney files charges after law enforcement investigations are completed and the investigative reports have been referred to the Prosecuting Attorney’s office for a charging decision. The Prosecuting Attorney does not investigate crimes. If wish to report a crime and it is an emergency, then call 911. If it is not an emergency, contact your local law enforcement agency - your city police department or sheriff’s office.

The Prosecuting Attorney’s office does not cancel restraining orders. You will need to contact the Court that issued the restraining order to request that the order be cancelled. A motion and a declaration must be filed explaining the reasons why you want the order cancelled. If your request is granted, the Court may condition cancellation of the restraining order on attendance of anger management classes, marital counseling or other requirements. The Court’s primary concern will be the safety of the protected person and preventing further domestic violence. 

Washington law requires that the county be notified of a claim prior to a lawsuit being commenced against the county. RCW 4.96.020 claims that the county has sixty days after a claim is submitted to accept or reject the claim. The decision to accept or reject a claim is made by the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners. If the Board of County Commissioners takes no action, then the claim is deemed rejected.

Douglas County has designated the Prosecuting Attorney as the official to initially receive all claims directed to the county. Claims are forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners for review.

Submit a Claim

When submitting a claim, it is important to provide as much information as possible, including copies of all repair bills or estimates, medical bills, photographs, and any other documents supporting your claim. The Prosecuting Attorney has developed a Notice of Claim form (PDF) which may be used to submit your claim.

A subpoena is a court document requiring you to be present at the time, place and date stated. Failure to appear will make it impossible for the Prosecuting Attorney’s office to effectively prosecute the case and could result in the Judge finding you in contempt of court. You will be paid the witness fee and mileage set by law. You cannot be reimbursed for lost wages. Your employer must honor the subpoena and allow you to attend court.

Testimony

Information provided by victims and witnesses aids in the identification and arrest of suspects. Your testimony is important for successful prosecution. Please keep the Victim-Witness Coordinator advised of your current mailing address and telephone contact numbers.

Deputy Prosecutor

Before the trial, you will have a chance to discuss the case and your testimony with the Deputy Prosecutor handling the trial. You may also be contacted by the defense attorney or an investigator working for the defense attorney. The defense attorney and the defense investigator have the right to contact and interview witnesses. You have the right to request that a Deputy Prosecutor and/or a victim advocate attend the defense interview.

Contact

If you have questions, please call the office at 745-8535 to speak with the Victim-Witness Coordinator or the Deputy Prosecutor who signed the subpoena.

The County Sheriff handles sex offender registration. If you reside in Douglas County, then go to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office located at 110 2nd Street NE in East Wenatchee to register.

If your period of suspension has expired and you are eligible for reinstatement, you need to contact the Department of Licensing. You will be required to show proof of insurance and that you have paid all traffic tickets or made payment arrangements for such tickets as part of the reinstatement process.

Juvenile

If you are a juvenile and your license was suspended because of an offense such as Minor in Possession or possession of illegal drugs, you will need to file a Petition for Early Reinstatement with the Juvenile Court. If the Court approves your request, you will then need to present the Order issued by the Court to the Department of Licensing with your application for reinstatement.

Contact

The telephone number for the Department of Licensing Customer Service is 360-902-3900. The Department of Licensing website has a great deal of helpful information.