Massachusetts court guide
Brockton District Court
Brockton District Court is at 215 Main Street in Brockton. It hears criminal cases from Abington, Bridgewater, Brockton, East Bridgewater, West Bridgewater, and Whitman. If your paperwork names this court, here is where to go and what to expect on your first date.
Court at a glance
- Address: 215 Main St., Brockton, MA 02301
- Clerk's Office and Probation: 508-587-8000
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Prosecutor: Plymouth County District Attorney's Office
What this court hears
The District Court hears all misdemeanors, felonies punishable by up to 5 years, many other specific felonies, and violations of town ordinances and bylaws. It also hears civil cases likely worth no more than $50,000 and small claims up to $7,000.
Brockton also runs an Adult Drug Court and a Veterans' Treatment Court. If a grand jury indicts on a more serious charge, the District Court complaint is dismissed and the case moves to Superior Court.
Parking, transit, and security
The court lists a free lot behind the courthouse, metered street spaces, and a public garage directly across the street. Brockton Station on the MBTA Kingston/Plymouth and Middleborough/Lakeville lines is about half a mile away. Brockton Area Transit Bus Route 8 also serves the courthouse.
Weapons are not allowed in any court building, and court officers screen visitors with metal detectors and X-ray machines. You may bring a phone, but it must be off or silent and put away before you enter a courtroom. Photos and video are not allowed anywhere inside.
What happens at your arraignment
Go to the probation office first. A probation officer will interview you, including about your finances. Then go to the courtroom and answer "Present" when your name is called.
The charges are read and a not guilty plea is usually entered for you. If you face possible jail and cannot afford a lawyer, the judge can appoint one. The judge may also hold a bail or dangerousness hearing. Most cases get a pretrial conference date.
If you were not arrested and face only misdemeanors, you may first get a clerk-magistrate hearing. Our show cause hearing guide explains the process.
Finding your case and what to bring
Look up basic case information and court dates for free at masscourts.org. Most criminal cases can only be found by docket number, so enter it exactly as it appears on your paperwork.
Bring every paper you have about the case and a way to take notes. Cash is not required, but the court suggests $250 as a reasonable estimate for costs or fines. Do not wear shorts, hats, or flip flops.
How our firm helps
Lisa DiLibero, Esq. is admitted in Massachusetts and handles the firm's Massachusetts matters. Dylan C. DiLibero, Esq. appears in all Massachusetts state courts. We can review your paperwork, explain the charge, and stand with you at a show cause hearing or arraignment.
Charged with drunk driving? Start with our Massachusetts OUI guide. The first conversation is free. Call 401-621-9700.
Frequently asked questions
The Plymouth County District Attorney's Office prosecutes most cases brought in the District Courts in Plymouth County, including Brockton.
Plan on at least 3 hours. In a crowded court you may be there all day, until around 4:30 p.m. Arrive early.
No. A lawyer is not appointed for a clerk-magistrate hearing on a complaint application, but you may hire one.
Ask before the scheduled date by contacting the clerk's office. If your name is called and you do not answer, the court treats it as if you were not there.
Next step
Have a date at Brockton District Court?
Call 401-621-9700 and we will explain the next step. The first conversation is free. Please do not send confidential details until we have agreed to represent you.