What to Expect in Civil Municipal Court
When a traffic violation, local ordinance violation or minor criminal offense is committed, you as the defendant may be required to appear in Municipal Court. The atmosphere can be hectic as there could be many people summoned to appear.
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Court Time
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Municipal Court is usually held in the evenings during the weekdays.
Judge's Overview
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Depending on the municipality, the presiding Judge may begin Court with an overview of how matters will proceed throughout the evening.
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Pleading Guilty or Responsible
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If the defendant is not contesting the allegations made by the Municipality, the Judge will invite all persons who are pleading guilty or responsible to come forward and pay the applicable fine. Persons accepting the allegations are usually disposed of first.
Meeting with Prosecutor
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If the defendant contests the traffic violation, local ordinance violation or minor criminal offense, the prosecutor in some municipalities will meet with the defendant privately to discuss the facts and allegations. If the municipality disagrees with the contest and no other resolution can be achieved, the matter proceeds to a Municipal Court hearing to decide judgment.
Municipal Court Hearing
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Municipal Court hearings have the tendency to be informal in nature. In some municipalities, the Judge will ask the questions to the defendant. In cases involving minor criminal offenses, the prosecutor usually handles the case. Regardless of the format, each side has the opportunity to put forth evidence and call witnesses. The Judge ultimately renders a verdict. If the verdict is entered against the defendant, fines are administered. If the defendant is found responsible for a traffic violation, license points may be assessed.
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