Welcome to Dakota County Court, available at https://dakotacountycourts.org.
This Cookies Policy explains how we use cookies and similar technologies on our website. It helps you understand what cookies are, how they work, why they are used, and how you can manage them.
We are committed to protecting your privacy and keeping your online experience safe. This policy should be read together with our Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.
By continuing to use our website, you agree to the use of cookies as described in this policy.
What Are Cookies?
Cookies are small text files that websites place on your device — such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone — when you visit them.
They store simple information like your browser type, preferences, or page visits. Cookies help websites recognize returning visitors and improve functionality.
Cookies do not identify you personally or give access to your computer. They simply record information that enhances how a website operates.
Why We Use Cookies
Dakota County Court uses cookies to make our website easier to use and to understand how visitors interact with our content.
We use cookies for several purposes, including:
- Improving website performance and functionality
- Analyzing visitor traffic and behavior
- Remembering user preferences
- Enhancing security and accessibility
Cookies allow us to measure which pages are most visited and how people find our website. This helps us maintain a better, more helpful experience for everyone.
We do not use cookies for advertising or user tracking across other websites.
Types of Cookies Used
Our website may use different types of cookies, each serving a specific purpose. Below is a breakdown of the common types we use:
a. Essential Cookies
These cookies are required for the website to function properly. They support basic features like navigation, accessibility, and security.
Without these cookies, parts of the website may not work correctly.
b. Performance Cookies
These cookies collect information about how visitors use our site, such as which pages are most popular or which links are clicked.
We use this data to improve website design and content.
c. Functionality Cookies
These cookies remember choices you make, such as language or region preferences.
They help personalize your experience so you don’t have to reset preferences each time you visit.
d. Analytics Cookies
We may use analytics cookies from trusted providers such as Google Analytics. These cookies collect anonymous information about visitor interactions, including time spent on pages and referral links.
This information helps us analyze traffic patterns and optimize website performance.
e. Security Cookies
Security cookies help detect and prevent malicious activity, ensuring a safer experience for visitors.
Cookies from Third Parties
Some cookies may come from third-party tools used on our website, such as analytics providers or embedded resources.
These third-party cookies are managed by their respective providers, who may have their own privacy and cookie policies.
Common examples include:
- Google Analytics (for anonymous traffic tracking)
- Content delivery networks (CDNs) that help load pages faster
We do not control third-party cookies, but we use them responsibly to keep our site efficient and informative.
Managing and Controlling Cookies
You have full control over cookies and can manage them through your web browser settings.
Most browsers allow you to:
- View which cookies are stored
- Delete existing cookies
- Block or restrict new cookies
- Receive alerts when cookies are being used
If you choose to block cookies, some website features may not work as intended. However, you will still be able to access most of the content.
Here are helpful links for managing cookies in popular browsers:
- Google Chrome: support.google.com/chrome/answer/95647
- Mozilla Firefox: support.mozilla.org/en-US/kb/enhanced-tracking-protection
- Microsoft Edge: support.microsoft.com/help/4027947
- Safari: support.apple.com/guide/safari/manage-cookies-and-website-data-sfri11471
By adjusting these settings, you can choose how much information you are comfortable sharing through cookies.
Google Analytics
Dakota County Court may use Google Analytics to collect information about visitor activity.
Google Analytics cookies help us track how visitors use our site, including which pages are visited and how long users stay on them. The information collected is anonymous and does not identify individual visitors.
Google Analytics may use cookies such as _ga and _gid to track user sessions.
The data collected includes:
- IP address (anonymized)
- Browser type
- Time spent on each page
- Referring website
You can learn more about how Google uses this data here: https://policies.google.com/technologies/partner-sites.
If you prefer not to be tracked by Google Analytics, you can opt out by using the Google Analytics Opt-Out Browser Add-on.
Duration of Cookies
Cookies can be either “session” or “persistent.”
- Session Cookies: Temporary and deleted when you close your browser.
- Persistent Cookies: Remain stored until they expire or are deleted manually.
We use both types depending on the function. Persistent cookies help us recognize returning visitors, while session cookies maintain temporary functionality during a visit.
Cookies and Personal Data
Cookies on Dakota County Court do not collect personally identifiable information.
The data gathered through cookies is anonymous and used only to improve website performance. We do not link cookies to email addresses, names, or personal records.
When you contact us via email (info@dakotacountycourts.org), that communication is handled separately and not connected to cookie data.
Consent to Use Cookies
When you first visit https://dakotacountycourts.org, a cookie notice may appear, informing you that cookies are used to improve your browsing experience.
By continuing to browse our website, you agree to the placement of cookies as described in this policy.
If you do not consent, you can adjust your browser settings to disable cookies before continuing to use the website.
How Cookies Improve the User Experience
Cookies make browsing faster and smoother. They allow our website to:
- Load pages efficiently
- Remember your preferences
- Display accurate content
- Improve navigation and usability
They also help us understand what information visitors find most useful so we can update our content accordingly.
Cookies do not harm your device or compromise security when used responsibly.
No Advertising or Tracking Cookies
Dakota County Court does not use cookies for advertising, remarketing, or targeted promotions.
We do not track visitors across other websites or share behavioral data with advertisers.
All cookies on this site serve purely functional and analytical purposes related to improving performance and accessibility.
Disabling Cookies
If you prefer to disable cookies entirely, you can do so through your browser settings.
Here’s how disabling cookies might affect your experience:
- Certain pages may load more slowly
- Some features (like preferences or accessibility settings) may not be saved
- You might see repetitive notices or banners
Even with cookies disabled, the website will remain accessible and safe to browse.
Security and Data Protection
We take website security seriously and use standard measures to protect all collected data, including information processed through cookies.
Our hosting provider and analytics tools use secure protocols to prevent unauthorized access or misuse.
We do not share cookie data with third parties, except those that provide essential site functionality or analytics, under strict privacy standards.
Links to External Websites
Our website may contain links to external resources or court-related websites.
These external sites may have their own cookie and privacy policies.
We are not responsible for how those websites use cookies or handle personal data. Please review their policies before sharing any information.
Updates to This Cookies Policy
We may update this Cookies Policy occasionally to reflect new regulations, technologies, or website improvements.
Any changes will be posted on this page with a new “Last Updated” date. We encourage visitors to review this policy periodically to stay informed.
Your continued use of the website after an update means you accept the revised policy.
Your Rights
As a visitor, you have the right to control how cookies interact with your device. You may:
- Delete existing cookies
- Block new cookies
- Adjust privacy settings in your browser
- Withdraw consent to cookies at any time
If you wish to contact us about how cookies are used or stored, please email info@dakotacountycourts.org.
Contact Information
If you have any questions or concerns about this Cookies Policy or how cookies are used on Dakota County Court, please reach out to us at:
Email: info@dakotacountycourts.org
Website: https://dakotacountycourts.org
We will review and respond to your inquiry as soon as possible.