Hawaii Small Claims Online Dispute Resolution (ODR): The TurboCourt Pilot Ended
Hawaii's Small Claims Division operated a pilot Online Dispute Resolution program through TurboCourt, but the Judiciary ended it on June 30, 2025. The platform no longer accepts new or subsequent case filings. For a current case, follow the Notice of Hearing unless the court formally dismisses the case or a judge grants a continuance.
How ODR Worked
While active, the ODR system gave both parties a seven-day window to communicate through TurboCourt and attempt to negotiate a resolution. Messages went back and forth, offers and counteroffers were exchanged, and if both sides agreed on a settlement, they could file a Notice of Dismissal (Form 1DC20 or 3DC20) or Stipulation for Dismissal (Form 1DC21 or 3DC21) to remove the case from the calendar. Confirm the correct form with the court in other circuits.
The platform was free to use. It functioned as a structured communication channel — a court-sanctioned negotiation by text, not a hearing or mediation with a neutral party present. Nobody made a ruling or offered an opinion on the merits. It was you and the other party, with the conversation documented.
What to Do If You Want to Settle Now
ODR is no longer available, but you can still try to settle directly with the other party. If you reach an agreement before the hearing, file a Notice of Dismissal (Form 1DC20 or 3DC20) or Stipulation for Dismissal (Form 1DC21 or 3DC21) so the court removes the case from its calendar. Confirm the correct form with the court in other circuits.
Do not assume that a private agreement alone cancels the hearing. Your hearing date remains unless the court formally dismisses the case or a judge grants a continuance.
If You Used the Pilot Before It Closed
The Judiciary's closure notice said all open online negotiations expired at 11:59 p.m. HST on June 30, 2025, and the platform stopped accepting new or subsequent filings after that date.
The last day to download or save documents from the platform was September 30, 2025. After that, filed documents may be obtained through eCourt Kokua or at the courthouse; fees may apply.
If your case is still active, contact the courthouse where it is filed and use the hearing information on your Notice. The expired ODR platform does not extend court deadlines or count as an appearance.
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Your Current Hearing Date Still Matters
Settlement discussions do not substitute for appearing at the hearing date listed on your Statement of Claim and Notice. The hearing date stands unless the court formally dismisses the case or a judge grants a continuance.
The Bottom Line
Hawaii's TurboCourt ODR pilot ended June 30, 2025. You can still pursue a direct settlement, but file the required dismissal form and keep preparing for the hearing unless the court confirms the case has been removed from the calendar.
The Responding to a Small Claims Case in Hawaii guide covers settlement filings and the full courtroom preparation process.
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