You might be planning a courthouse visit and wondering if Flag Day affects normal operating hours. Most courthouses remain open on Flag Day because it is not a federal or state legal holiday, so regular business hours typically apply. While the day honors the American flag and holds historical significance, it does not trigger the mandatory closures that official holidays do.
Understanding courthouse schedules helps you avoid wasted trips and missed deadlines. Washington State courts close only on legal holidays like New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, not on commemorative days like Flag Day. However, individual courthouses may have special ceremonies or adjusted schedules to recognize the occasion.
Planning your courthouse visit requires knowing the difference between actual court holidays and observance days. This guide will walk you through what to expect on Flag Day, how to confirm your local courthouse hours, and what steps you should take before making the trip to ensure your business gets handled smoothly.
Is the Courthouse Open on Flag Day?
Flag Day falls on June 14 each year. Most courthouses remain open on this day because it is not a federal holiday.
Flag Day honors the adoption of the United States flag in 1777. While it holds historical significance, Congress has not designated it as an official legal holiday. This means federal courts continue normal operations on June 14.
Why Flag Day Is Different from Other Holidays
Federal holidays like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Washington’s Birthday close courthouses across the country. Flag Day does not appear on the official list of federal holidays that trigger court closures.
You can expect normal courthouse hours on Flag Day. Most court facilities operate Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on regular business days.
What to Expect on June 14
- Court hearings proceed as scheduled
- Clerk offices maintain regular hours
- Filing deadlines remain in effect
- Public services operate normally
Some individual courts may choose to hold special ceremonies or recognize Flag Day. However, these observances typically do not affect regular court business or accessibility.
If you have a court date or need to visit a courthouse on Flag Day, plan to arrive during normal business hours. You should not experience any holiday-related closures or service interruptions. State and local courts follow similar patterns, though some variations exist depending on your jurisdiction.
Always confirm your local courthouse schedule if you have specific appointments scheduled for June 14.
Flag Day Hours and Operating Schedule
Flag Day falls on June 14 each year to honor the adoption of the United States flag. Courts and courthouses typically remain open on this date because it is not a federal or state holiday.
Standard Courthouse Operations on Flag Day
Most courthouse facilities operate normal business hours on Flag Day, which usually run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. You can expect full services to be available, including filing documents, making payments, and attending scheduled hearings.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a courthouse visit on Flag Day, you should verify your local court’s specific schedule. Different judicial circuits may have variations in their operating hours or holiday schedule policies. Some clerk’s offices open at 8:30 AM instead of 8:00 AM.
What to Expect
You will find all regular courthouse services available on June 14. This includes:
- Clerk of Court offices for document filing and records access
- Court hearings and proceedings as scheduled
- Payment processing for fines, fees, and other court-related costs
- Public access to courtrooms and legal resources
Flag Day celebrations may occur at some courthouses, but these events will not interrupt normal business operations. You should still arrive early for any scheduled court appearances to allow time for security screening and locating your assigned courtroom. Your deadlines remain in effect since the courthouse stays open for regular business hours.
Tips for Visiting the Courthouse on Flag Day
Flag Day falls on June 14 each year. Courthouses typically remain open on this day since it is not a federal holiday.
Before you visit, call ahead to confirm the courthouse will be operating. Most court facilities are open between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. Individual locations may have different hours.
Plan for security screening when you arrive. You will pass through a screening station near the building entrance. Remove metal items from your pockets and place bags on the conveyor belt for inspection.
Arrive at least 30 minutes early for your appointment or hearing. This gives you time to get through security and find the correct courtroom.
What to bring:
- Photo identification
- Any required legal documents
- Payment method for fines or fees
- Notebook and pen
What to leave at home:
- Weapons of any kind
- Large bags or backpacks
- Food and drinks
- Electronic devices if not needed
Dress appropriately in business casual attire. Avoid shorts, tank tops, or clothing with offensive language.
Check if your courthouse offers online services. Some locations allow you to handle certain tasks remotely, which can save you time.
If you need to visit on an actual federal holiday, note that courthouses close for days like Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day, and Memorial Day. Flag Day does not appear on standard court closure schedules, so regular operations should continue.
