Mahaska County Court: Iowa

Mahaska County Court operates as part of Iowa’s Judicial District 8 from the historic courthouse at 106 South 1st Street, 2nd Floor, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Chief Judge Shawn R. Showers leads the district alongside District Court Administrator Heidi Baker. The Mahaska County Clerk of Court fields calls at the Mahaska County court phone number 641-673-7786. Mahaska County court hours run 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Fax communications go to 641-672-1256, and email inquiries reach countyclerk.mahaska@iowacourts.gov. The Mahaska County courthouse in Oskaloosa also houses the Juvenile Court Office serving families with matters handled by the Mahaska County judge team. This Mahaska County judicial district hears small claims court actions, civil lawsuits, criminal prosecutions, probate, traffic court matters, and dissolution of marriage actions. Case scheduling questions go to Steffanie Chance or Amy Gardner at 641-684-6502. The Mahaska County court address in Oskaloosa, IA, sits centrally, with courthouse parking and ADA-accessible entrances for visitors with disabilities.

Mahaska County Court posts case data through the Iowa Courts Online Search portal, where users can run a Mahaska County court case search by name, date of birth, citation number, or case ID. The Mahaska County District Court case lookup tool covers civil, criminal, probate, and traffic court Iowa filings, with the Mahaska County court docket Iowa updating in real time for new entries. Mahaska County Iowa court records can also be reviewed at the public access terminal inside the clerk’s office during regular hours. For jury service, the eJuror system lets residents confirm reporting times, request deferrals, or update personal details, with unexcused Mahaska County jury duty absences risking contempt sanctions. Mahaska County court forms Iowa can be downloaded from the judicial branch website, and Mahaska County electronic filing Iowa accepts new submissions 24/7. Mahaska County court schedule Iowa updates and trial status can be checked by calling 641-673-7786 after 5:00 p.m. the evening before reporting. The clerk’s office also collects traffic fines, criminal fines, and civil infraction payments through the official Iowa Judicial Branch payment portal.

Search Mahaska County Court Cases and Records

The Iowa Judicial Branch runs a free public portal called Iowa Courts Online Search. This tool lets anyone look up Mahaska County court records from a phone or computer. Users can search civil, criminal, probate, traffic, family, and small claims cases by name, case number, or citation number.

• Visit the Iowa Judicial Branch website at https://www.iowacourts.gov/.
• Click “Search Court Records” at the top of the page.
• Select “Iowa Courts Online Search” from the menu.
• Choose Mahaska County from the drop-down list.
• Enter a last name, first name, or business name.
• Add a date of birth or case number to narrow the results.
• Press “Search” to see the matching docket entries.

Results show filing dates, hearing times, party names, and case status. The portal updates in real time when the clerk’s office enters new filings. Records that are sealed by court order will not appear in the public search results.

Mahaska County Courthouse Location and Address

The Mahaska County courthouse sits in the city of Oskaloosa, Iowa. This building houses the Clerk of Court office, courtrooms, and the Juvenile Court Office. The full street address is 106 South 1st Street, 2nd Floor, Oskaloosa, IA 52577.

• Street: 106 South 1st Street
• Floor: 2nd Floor
• City: Oskaloosa
• State: Iowa (IA)
• ZIP Code: 52577
• Building: Mahaska County Courthouse

Visitors enter through the main doors facing South 1st Street. Free public parking is available near the courthouse square. The building has ADA-accessible ramps and elevators for visitors with mobility needs.

Mahaska County Clerk of Court Contact Details

The Mahaska County Clerk of Court office handles all case filings, record-keeping, and fee collection. Residents can call the clerk’s office during business hours for case status checks or filing questions. The official phone number is 641-673-7786.

• Office Name: Mahaska County Clerk of Court
• Phone: 641-673-7786
• Fax: 641-672-1256
• Email: countyclerk.mahaska@iowacourts.gov
• Location: 106 South 1st Street, 2nd Floor, Oskaloosa, IA 52577

The clerk’s office processes new civil and criminal case filings, collects fines, issues certified copies of records, and manages jury lists. Email replies may take one to two business days. For urgent matters, call the office during open hours.

Mahaska County Court Hours and Schedule

The clerk’s office at the Mahaska County courthouse follows a regular weekday schedule. Doors open at 8:00 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m. The office stays closed on state and federal holidays.

Court hearings and trials run on schedules set by the assigned judge. The clerk posts the next day’s docket on the public portal after 5:00 p.m. the evening before. Visitors should arrive 15 minutes before any scheduled hearing.

Mahaska County Judicial District and Judges

Mahaska County sits within Iowa’s 8th Judicial District. Chief Judge Shawn R. Showers leads the district and oversees court operations across member counties. District Court Administrator Heidi Baker manages the day-to-day business side of the court system.

• Judicial District: 8th Judicial District of Iowa
• Chief Judge: Shawn R. Showers
• District Court Administrator: Heidi Baker
• Case Scheduling: Steffanie Chance and Amy Gardner at 641-684-6502

District court judges rotate through dockets that include felony criminal cases, civil disputes over $5,000, dissolutions of marriage, and probate matters. Associate juvenile judges handle child welfare and delinquency cases filed in the county.

Mahaska County Court Case Types and Divisions

The Mahaska County District Court hears a wide range of civil and criminal matters. Each case type follows its own set of Iowa rules and procedures. The clerk’s office can help identify which division handles a specific filing.

• Small Claims Court: Disputes involving $6,500 or less
• Civil Court: Lawsuits, contract disputes, and personal injury claims
• Criminal Court: Felonies, misdemeanors, and DUI prosecutions
• Family Court: Divorce, custody, child support, and paternity
• Probate Court: Wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships
• Traffic Court: Moving violations and municipal infractions
• Juvenile Court: Delinquency, child in need of assistance (CINA), and termination of parental rights

Each division holds hearings in the main courthouse at 106 South 1st Street. Specialized programs like mental health court, veterans court, and drug court serve eligible defendants in the district.

Mahaska County Electronic Filing (eFile) System

Iowa courts accept new case filings through the eFile system. Attorneys and self-represented filers can submit court documents online any time of day. The eFile portal runs on the same Iowa Judicial Branch website.

• Visit https://www.iowacourts.gov/ and click “eFile Login.”
• Create a new account or sign in with an existing username.
• Select Mahaska County as the filing location.
• Choose the correct case category from the list.
• Upload the PDF document and any supporting exhibits.
• Pay the filing fee using a credit card or eCheck.
• Watch for an email confirmation that the clerk accepted the filing.

The eFile system is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The clerk’s office reviews new submissions during regular business hours. Self-represented filers who need help can call the clerk at 641-673-7786.

Mahaska County Court Forms and PDF Documents

The Iowa Judicial Branch publishes official court forms on its website. These forms cover common filings in civil, family, probate, and small claims cases. Forms are available as fillable PDFs that can be saved and printed.

• Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
• Answer and Counterclaim (Civil)
• Small Claims Petition
• Motion for Continuance
• Application for Waiver of Filing Fee
• Affidavit of Service
• Financial Affidavit (Family Law)
• Petition for Appointment of Guardian

Users can download the full form list at the Iowa Judicial Branch website. The site also includes instructions for completing each form. Forms should be reviewed for the current version before filing, as Iowa updates them periodically.

Mahaska County Court Filing Fees and Cost Schedule

Court filing fees in Iowa are set by state statute and apply across all counties. The Mahaska County Clerk of Court collects these fees at the time of filing. Methods of payment include cash, money order, and credit or debit card.

Petitioners who cannot afford the filing fee can file an Application for Waiver of Filing Fee. The court reviews financial information and grants or denies the request. The clerk’s office can answer questions about current fee amounts at 641-673-7786.

Mahaska County Jury Duty and eJuror System

Mahaska County residents who receive a jury summons must respond through the eJuror system. This online portal lets jurors confirm reporting times, request postponements, or update personal details. The eJuror link is on the Iowa Judicial Branch website.

• Go to https://www.iowacourts.gov/ and click the “eJuror” link.
• Enter the juror ID number from the summons letter.
• Enter the date of birth on file with the court.
• Choose to confirm, defer, or excuse the service date.
• Update mailing address, phone number, or email if needed.
• Submit the form and save the confirmation number.

Jurors who fail to appear without a valid excuse may face contempt charges. The court requires jurors to call 641-673-7786 after 5:00 p.m. the night before service to check reporting status. Most jury service lasts one day unless the trial extends into multiple days.

Mahaska County Court Schedule and Daily Docket

The clerk’s office posts the next day’s court schedule online each evening. Residents can view hearing times, room numbers, and assigned judges through the Iowa Courts Online Search portal. Attorneys can also sign up for email docket alerts.

• Criminal Arraignments: Monday through Friday mornings
• Civil Pretrial Conferences: Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Family Court Hearings: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
• Probate Calendar: Wednesday afternoons
• Small Claims Trials: Thursday mornings
• Juvenile Hearings: Confidential scheduling

To check the schedule, call 641-673-7786 or look up the case on the Iowa Judicial Branch portal. Case scheduling questions can also go to Steffanie Chance or Amy Gardner at 641-684-6502. Last-minute schedule changes appear on the portal the same day.

Mahaska County Small Claims Court Process

Small claims court in Mahaska County handles disputes involving $6,500 or less. The process is designed to be simple so people can file cases without an attorney. Plaintiffs usually file a petition and pay the filing fee at the clerk’s office.

• Fill out a Small Claims Petition form.
• File the form with the Mahaska County Clerk of Court.
• Pay the filing fee set under Iowa Code §602.8105.
• Serve the defendant with the petition and notice of hearing.
• Appear at the hearing on the scheduled date.
• The magistrate enters a judgment after hearing both sides.

Small claims hearings take place in the magistrate courtroom at the Mahaska County courthouse. Either party can appeal the decision to district court within 20 days. The court may order mediation before trial in some disputes.

Mahaska County Probate Court and Estate Filings

The probate division handles wills, trusts, estate administration, guardianships, and conservatorships. Most probate cases begin when a family member files a petition after a death. The court appoints an executor or administrator to manage the estate.

• Petition for Probate of Will
• Petition for Letters of Administration
• Inventory of Estate Assets
• Final Report and Accounting
• Petition for Guardianship of Minor
• Petition for Conservatorship of Adult
• Notice of Probate

Probate hearings in Mahaska County are scheduled on Wednesday afternoons. The court requires all interested parties to receive proper notice. The clerk’s office can provide the current fee schedule and required form list for each filing type.

Mahaska County Family Court and Divorce Records

Family court matters in Mahaska County include divorce, legal separation, child custody, child support, and paternity actions. Dissolution of marriage cases require at least a 90-day waiting period after the other party is served before the court grants the final decree.

• File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage with the clerk.
• Serve the spouse with the petition and summons.
• Wait for the 90-day cooling-off period to end.
• Attend the final hearing before the district judge.
• Receive the signed Decree of Dissolution.

Child custody and support orders are based on the best interests of the child. The court may order mediation before a contested hearing. Parents can ask for a modification of custody or support when a major life change occurs. Family court records remain part of the public docket unless sealed by judicial order.

Mahaska County Criminal Court Records and Case Lookup

Criminal cases in Mahaska County include felonies, aggravated misdemeanors, serious misdemeanors, simple misdemeanors, and infractions. The county attorney files charges, and the clerk assigns a case number. Public users can search criminal dockets on the Iowa Courts Online portal.

• Felony Cases: Heard by district judges
• Misdemeanor Cases: Heard by district associate judges
• DUI Charges: Filed in criminal court
• Simple Misdemeanors: Maximum fine of $855 and 30 days in jail
• Serious Misdemeanors: Maximum fine of $1,875 and one year in jail
• Aggravated Misdemeanors: Maximum fine of $6,250 and two years in jail

Initial appearances, arraignments, and pretrial conferences occur on weekday mornings. Trials in felony cases may last several days and require jury selection. Criminal court records remain public unless the court grants a sealing or expungement order.

Mahaska County Traffic Court and Violations

Traffic tickets issued in Mahaska County go through the traffic court division. Most simple traffic violations are handled as civil infractions with a fine but no jail time. Serious violations like operating while intoxicated (OWI) are charged as criminal misdemeanors or felonies.

Drivers can pay a traffic ticket online through the Iowa Judicial Branch payment portal. Contest the ticket by filing a written denial with the clerk before the deadline. The court schedules a hearing if the driver denies the citation.

Mahaska County Juvenile Court Services

The Juvenile Court Office at the Mahaska County courthouse handles cases involving minors. These include delinquency, child in need of assistance (CINA), and termination of parental rights petitions. The office also runs intake services for juvenile matters.

• Delinquency Petitions (Juvenile Crime)
• Child in Need of Assistance (CINA)
• Termination of Parental Rights
• Juvenile Mental Health Commitments
• Adoption Petitions
• Name Change Petitions for Minors

Juvenile hearings are closed to the public to protect the privacy of minors. Records in juvenile cases are confidential and only available to parties listed in the court order. Parents and guardians involved in a juvenile case should call the Juvenile Court Office for case updates.

Mahaska County Protective Orders and Restraining Orders

Victims of domestic abuse, harassment, or stalking can file for a protective order in Mahaska County. The court also issues restraining orders in civil cases involving threats or harm. Emergency protective orders can be granted the same day in some situations.

• Fill out a Petition for Protective Order at the clerk’s office.
• Submit the petition to a judge for review.
• Appear at the temporary hearing within a few days.
• Attend the full hearing if the court extends the order.
• Receive a final order that lasts up to one year (renewable).

Protective orders require no filing fee for the petitioner. The court can order the other party to stay away from the petitioner’s home, work, and children. Violating a protective order is a criminal offense punishable by jail time and fines.

Mahaska County Civil Lawsuit Filing Process

Civil lawsuits in Mahaska County cover disputes between individuals, businesses, or government agencies. Cases involving more than $6,500 go to district court, while smaller claims can be filed in small claims court. Plaintiffs usually hire an attorney for civil cases over $5,000.

• Original Notice and Petition filed with the clerk
• Service of process on the defendant
• Defendant’s Answer or Motion to Dismiss
• Discovery and depositions
• Pretrial conference with the judge
• Jury trial or bench trial
• Judgment entry and post-trial motions

Civil cases follow the Iowa Rules of Civil Procedure. The court sets scheduling deadlines at a pretrial conference. Parties can settle the case at any point before the judge enters a final judgment. Most civil records remain public after the case ends.

Mahaska County Eviction Court Proceedings

Landlords who need to remove a tenant from a rental property file a Forcible Entry and Detainer (FED) action. The Mahaska County Clerk of Court handles these filings under Iowa Code Chapter 648. The process moves quickly to give landlords a fast resolution.

• Landlord files the Notice to Quit and petition with the clerk.
• Court issues a summons for the tenant.
• Tenant has a short time to respond or appear.
• Hearing takes place before a magistrate judge.
• Court issues a judgment for possession.
• If the tenant does not leave, the landlord can request a writ of possession.

Tenants facing eviction can ask the court for more time to move if they meet hardship rules. Some tenants may have defenses based on the condition of the property. Legal aid services can help low-income tenants respond to eviction filings.

Mahaska County Warrant Search and Arrest Warrants

People who want to check for active arrest warrants in Mahaska County can use the public court portal. The Iowa Courts Online Search shows case status, bond information, and outstanding warrants. Law enforcement officers also maintain a public list of active warrants.

• Search by name on the Iowa Courts Online portal
• Check the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office public website
• Call the clerk’s office at 641-673-7786 during business hours
• Hire an attorney to run a confidential search
• Visit the sheriff’s office in person at 214 High Avenue East, Oskaloosa

Anyone with an active warrant should consult an attorney before contacting law enforcement. A lawyer can help arrange a voluntary surrender in many cases. Bench warrants issued for failing to appear in court can lead to arrest at any time.

Mahaska County Bail Hearing and Pretrial Release

Defendants charged with a crime in Mahaska County have the right to a bail hearing. The judge reviews the charge, the defendant’s criminal history, and the risk of flight before setting bond. Pretrial release options include cash bond, surety bond, or release on personal recognizance.

• First court appearance within 24 hours of arrest
• Judge informs the defendant of the charges
• Defense attorney requests a bond review
• Court considers pretrial risk assessment
• Bond conditions are set (no contact, curfew, substance testing)
• Defendant posts bond or remains in custody

Mahaska County runs a pretrial release program that screens eligible defendants. Some defendants can be released before their first court appearance. The court reviews bond conditions at each pretrial conference.

Mahaska County Expungement and Record Sealing

Iowa law allows certain criminal records to be sealed or expunged. Mahaska County residents can file a petition for expungement after completing their sentence and waiting the required time. The court holds a hearing to decide if the record qualifies for sealing.

• Simple misdemeanors: Eligible after 2 years
• Serious misdemeanors: Eligible after 5 years
• Aggravated misdemeanors: Eligible after 10 years (some restrictions apply)
• Felony convictions: Limited eligibility under Iowa Code §901C.2
• Deferred judgments: May be eligible sooner
• Acquittals and dismissals: Can be expunged immediately

Petitioners should file the Application for Expungement form with the clerk. The county attorney has 30 days to file an objection. The judge grants or denies the request after a short hearing. Sealed records do not show up on public court searches.

Mahaska County Court-Ordered Mediation and ADR

Many civil and family cases in Mahaska County go through mediation before trial. The court may order the parties to attend mediation to try to settle the dispute. Iowa offers a roster of approved mediators for civil and family cases.

• Civil Mediation: Contract disputes, personal injury, property
• Family Mediation: Custody, visitation, parenting time
• Workplace Mediation: Employment disputes
• Small Claims Mediation: Pre-trial settlement conferences
• Juvenile Mediation: Some CINA cases
• Probate Mediation: Will contests and estate disputes

Mediation costs are split between the parties unless the court orders otherwise. Many mediations resolve the case without a trial. The mediator files a report with the court if the parties settle. A signed agreement becomes a court order.

Mahaska County Court Interpreters and Language Access

The Mahaska County courthouse provides court interpreters for parties and witnesses who do not speak English. Iowa courts follow federal and state rules to provide language access. The court pays for interpreter services in criminal cases, but civil parties may need to arrange their own.

• Request an interpreter when filing a case or appearing in court
• Provide advance notice of at least five business days
• Confirm the language and dialect needed
• Sign a Request for Interpreter form if required
• Appear on the scheduled court date with the interpreter present

The court uses certified interpreters for Spanish, Vietnamese, Laotian, Bosnian, and many other languages. Sign language interpreters are also available for parties who are deaf or hard of hearing. Contact the clerk’s office at 641-673-7786 to request an interpreter.

Mahaska County Legal Aid and Self-Help Resources

People who cannot afford an attorney can use legal aid services in the Mahaska County area. These groups provide free legal help for low-income residents in civil cases. The Iowa State Bar Association lawyer referral service can also connect residents with private attorneys.

• Iowa Legal Aid: Free civil legal help for low-income Iowans
• Iowa State Bar Association: Lawyer referral and pro bono programs
• Crime Victim Compensation: Help for victims of violent crime
• Iowa Judicial Branch Self-Represented Help: Forms and instructions
• Mahaska County Bar Association: Local attorney directory
• Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence: Protective order help

The clerk’s office cannot give legal advice but can explain court procedures. Self-represented parties should review Iowa Court Rules before filing a case. Most legal aid groups offer phone consultations to screen eligibility cases.

Mahaska County Court Payment Portal and Fine Collection

People who owe court fines, fees, or restitution can pay through the Iowa Judicial Branch online payment portal. The system accepts credit and debit cards and e-checks. Payments can also be made in person at the clerk’s office.

• Traffic fines and surcharges
• Criminal fines and court costs
• Restitution owed to victims
• Civil judgment payments
• Probate filing fees
• Small claims judgments

The payment portal is on the Iowa Judicial Branch website. Users need the case number and party name to make a payment. The clerk’s office can take cash, check, or money order during business hours.

Mahaska County Court Appeals Process

Parties who lose a case in Mahaska County District Court can appeal to the Iowa Court of Appeals. The appellant files a Notice of Appeal and a brief with the clerk. The appeal is a review of the lower court’s decision, not a new trial.

• File a Notice of Appeal within 30 days of the judgment
• Pay the appeal filing fee to the district court clerk
• Order the transcript of the lower court hearing
• Submit the appellate brief within the court’s deadline
• The opposing party files a response brief
• The Iowa Court of Appeals issues a written decision

The appellate court can affirm, reverse, or remand the case to the lower court. Some appeals go to the Iowa Supreme Court if the Court of Appeals grants further review. The clerk’s office can provide current appeal deadlines and required forms.

Mahaska County Court Records Request and Certified Copies

Anyone can request certified copies of court records from the Mahaska County Clerk of Court. The clerk issues certified copies of judgments, decrees, and other filed documents. Standard copies are available for a smaller fee, while certified copies cost more.

• Certified Copy of Divorce Decree
• Certified Copy of Judgment
• Certified Copy of Probated Will
• Standard Copy of Court File
• Letters of Appointment (Probate)
• Court Transcripts from Court Reporter

Requests can be made in person, by mail, or by phone at 641-673-7786. The clerk’s office can mail certified copies to a verified address. Payment is required before the clerk releases the documents. Sealed records are only available to parties listed in the court order.

Contact, Local Details, and Map

The Mahaska County Courthouse acts as the centralized judicial facility for residents in Oskaloosa and the surrounding regional municipal zones. Operating within the Eighth Judicial District of Iowa, the multi-story facility processes all local misdemeanor actions, felony criminal scheduling, probate filings, small claims actions, and domestic relations proceedings.

• Official Website: iowacourts.gov (Iowa Judicial Branch)
• Online Record Locator: iowacourts.state.ia.us (Iowa Courts Online Search System)

Primary Court Division & Contact

Frequently Asked Questions

Mahaska County Court serves residents of Oskaloosa and surrounding areas in Iowa’s 8th Judicial District. The courthouse handles civil, criminal, probate, family, traffic, and small claims cases. Residents can search records, pay fines, file documents, and complete jury duty through the Clerk of Court office. These answers cover phone numbers, addresses, hours, online tools, and step-by-step directions for common court tasks in Mahaska County.

How Do I Search Mahaska County Court Records Online?

Visit Iowa Courts Online Search at the Iowa Judicial Branch website to find Mahaska County court records. You can search civil, criminal, probate, traffic, and small claims cases by name, case number, or citation number. Records dating back to 1997 appear in the free public search. No registration or subscription is needed for basic docket information. For complete case documents, visit the public access terminal at the Mahaska County Courthouse located at 106 South 1st Street, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Confidential cases such as juvenile matters do not appear online.

What Are the Mahaska County Clerk of Court Hours and Contact Information?

The Mahaska County Clerk of Court office operates from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. The office sits on the 2nd floor of the courthouse at 106 South 1st Street, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Call the clerk at 641-673-7786 or send a fax to 641-672-1256. Email reaches the office at countyclerk.mahaska@iowacourts.gov. A drop box for payments and filings sits outside the clerk’s office. For after-hours juror questions, call 641-673-7786 after 5 p.m. the evening before your service date.

How Can I Pay Fines and Fees to the Mahaska County Court?

Pay your Mahaska County court fines three ways. First, use the Iowa Courts Online Payment Search at the judicial branch website using a major credit card anytime. Second, call the clerk at 641-673-7786 during business hours. Third, place payment in the drop box outside the clerk’s office on the 2nd floor. Online payments post free of charge. City parking violations cannot be paid through the county system, so contact your city clerk instead. Allow up to 14 days for new citations to appear online.

What Should I Know About Jury Duty at the Mahaska County Courthouse?

Report for jury service at the 2nd-floor courtroom in the Mahaska County Courthouse at 106 South 1st Street, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Check in with the Court Attendant upon arrival. Wear business or business-casual clothing. Shorts, halter tops, and clothing with suggestive images are not allowed. Turn off cell phones completely. No weapons are allowed in the building. You will earn $30 per day for up to seven days and $50 per day after that. Travel reimbursement runs $0.50 per mile. Use the eJuror system to request deferrals or update your personal information before your reporting date.

How Do I File Court Documents Electronically in Mahaska County?

Submit electronic filings through the Iowa eFile system at the Iowa Judicial Branch website. Click the eFile tab and create an account if you do not already have one. Most civil, criminal, probate, and family court documents qualify for electronic submission. Filing fees apply based on case type. For help with technical issues, call the help desk at 1-800-831-1396 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. You can also file in person at the clerk’s office or place documents in the drop box located on the 2nd floor of the Mahaska County Courthouse.