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Contesting a tow in Spokane: Municipal Court or County District Court
In the Spokane area, the court depends on who ordered the tow. Both courts charge $73.
General information, not legal advice. The papers you got from the police, the tow company, the storage lot or a state agency control your dates. Agencies change phone numbers and steps, so check the agency's own page too.
City impounds: Spokane Municipal Court
The Municipal Court hears City impounds (including scofflaw and airport impounds), but not junk-vehicle abatement. Bring the tow company's hearing request form and your redemption receipt to the clerk at 1100 W Mallon Ave within 10 calendar days of redeeming or trying to redeem, with the $73 fee. Filing does not release the car, and storage keeps adding up until the hearing.
Private and other impounds: Spokane County District Court
State law gives district court jurisdiction over all impounds. The request goes on the tow company's form; the District Court lists a $73 impound fee, and its civil office is at 721 N Jefferson St. The statute counts 10 days from the date the tow company gave the notice and form.
Sources: RCW 46.55.120(2)(b); District Court fee schedule; Civil and Small Claims Cases
County Sheriff impounds
Outside city limits, Spokane County's code says the Sheriff mails a notice within 24 hours of an impound, and a hearing can release the vehicle without charges if the impound was improper.
Sources: Spokane County Code 46.61.556-.559
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