Wichita’s municipal court makes big changes to its walk-in docket

Major changes are coming to the city of Wichita’s municipal court walk-in docket.

The court is doubling the amount of cases it’ll take each day to 20, and moving the walk-in docket time to 1 p.m.

People eligible for the walk-in docket include people who have missed their court date, want to change their court date, or need to speak with a judge about their case.

The court hears cases when people are found in violation of city code, including traffic infractions, and more.

With the changes, there will also be a new sign-up process. Those wanting to get on the docket can call ahead between 8:30 and 11 a.m. each day. Spots can also be reserved in-person from 11 to 11:30 a.m.

This allows clerks to put together the docket before it begins, according to the city.

The changes will take effect next month, starting Aug. 3.

“We now know that coming to City Hall can sometimes be inconvenient,” Wichita Mayor Lily Wu said at her weekly media briefing, “and we want to cut down on times that people have to take time off from work or school or away from their families.”

Previously, those wanting to appear on the walk-in docket had to show up to City Hall between 7 and 7:30 a.m.

“Not only were there instances of customers standing outside prior to 7 a.m. sometimes in the cold or heat, but there were instances where an individual showed up and waited, and all the slots were filled before they had an opportunity to walk in,” Wu said.