Municipal Court Policies & Procedures

Appearing in Court

Appearing in Court

CHECK IN

When you arrive at court, you must check-in with the Bailiff to have your file located for your court appearance. After you have checked in, be seated as instructed by the bailiff.

COURT BEGINS

As the Judge enters the courtroom you will be asked to rise. You should remain standing until you are told to be seated.

YOUR APPEARANCE BEFORE THE JUDGE

You will be appearing in court to enter a plea of GUILTY or NOT GUILTY to the charge(s) that are pending against you. You may seek the services of an attorney. You may request one continuance in order to hire an attorney.

ENTERING A PLEA

IF YOU PLEAD NOT GUILTY
A PLEA OF NOT GUILTY will result in your case being set on another date for TRIAL. You must appear in court for your trial setting or a warrant will be issued for your arrest. You may bring your witness(es) and any other information that you feel is pertinent to your case.

IF YOU PLEAD GUILTY
A PLEA OF GUILTY is considered an admission of guilt to the charge(s) that are pending against you. You may offer an explanation. The judge may listen to the circumstances surrounding your case. These circumstances may or may not affect the penalty.

PENALTY

If the judge accepts your plea of guilty or finds you guilty after a trial, he or she may order one or any combination of the following:

Additionally, points may be assessed against your driver's license for certain traffic violations.

COURT COSTS

If the Judge imposes a sentence, you will be required to pay court costs in the amount of $62.50 for each case.

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