
We at the Commons Law Center understand that arriving at the courthouse can be an overwhelming experience, especially if you do not know what to expect. You may be wondering what to bring, how early to arrive, or where to go. Do not worry— we recognize how stressful this situation can be, and we are here to help. The following information will help you feel more prepared and confident when you arrive.
Arriving at the Courthouse
To help reduce stress and avoid any delays, we recommend that you arrive at the courthouse between 8 and 8:15 am.
Upon arriving at the courthouse, you will immediately enter the security screening area. An arrow will direct you to the public security line, where you will be asked to place your belongings on the conveyor belt for screening.
If you bring a laptop, you will be asked to take it out of your bag and place it in a bin or directly onto the belt. Any metal items on your person—such as keys, coins, or belts—will also need to be removed and placed on the belt. Security can confiscate anything that may be considered dangerous, so air on the side of caution with what you bring.
You may keep your shoes on while through the metal detector unless you are wearing heels or shoes with metal parts. In that case, you will be asked to remove them and place the shoes on the belt as well.
After walking through the metal detector, you can then retrieve your belongings and continue to your destination.
What to Bring to Court
- All paperwork related to your case, including any notices or summons you received
- Documents you signed
- Proof of any payments your landlord disputes receiving
- Proof of rental assistance, or any other materials related to your case
Courthouse Instructions
Multnomah County Courthouse - Downtown
Address: 1200 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR 97204
Where to go?
If you are arriving at the Multnomah County Courthouse, take the stairs next to the security line to the second floor. You will need to go to the Crane Room, located on the right side, this is where landlord-tenant cases are handled.
Once in the Crane Room, you will need to present a valid government-issued ID and check in with the law clerks at the desk.
East County Courthouse - Eastside
Address: 18480 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97233
Where to go?
If you are arriving at the East County Courthouse, you will need to check in with the law clerks located directly in front of the security line. You will be expected to present a valid government-issued ID at check-in.
After checking in, take the stairs to the right of the check-in area. Once upstairs, you may wait outside the courtroom until your hearing is called.
Where to Find the TED team?
Multnomah County Courthouse
Once inside the Crane Room, you can find our team seated at the long table directly to the right of the check-in desk.
East County Courthouse
Once on the second floor, you can find us seated at the tables located near the elevator.
How do we help tenants?
Our Tenant Eviction Defense (TED) team provides tenants with brief advice, helps negotiate agreements with their landlords’ attorneys or agents, and provides tenants with rental assistance resources. The TED team hopes to provide guidance to tenants, help avoid evictions and tenants becoming houseless, and mitigate the long-term impact of an eviction on a tenant’s record.
If you have any questions regarding what to do after receiving an eviction notice, visit our FAQ page below.
The TED team has a very limited capacity to help tenants outside the morning eviction docket courthouse clinics. BEFORE ANY TENANT IS A CLIENT, THEY WILL BE ASKED TO SIGN AN ENGAGEMENT LETTER. Representation is NOT guaranteed.
If you have any additional questions, please visit our Tenant Resource Guide.