All trials are held on the first and third Tuesday each month unless cancelled by the Judge. All trials are recorded.

Self Representation

You may represent yourself and may present witnesses for your case.

If you wish to offer documents as part of the presentation of the case, you may do so. Please bring copies for the Assistant City Attorney and the Judge.

Burden of Proof

The municipality has the burden of proving the violation(s) by clear, satisfactory and convincing evidence. The municipality will present their side of the case first. This involves calling witnesses and presenting other types of evidence. The municipality may call you to testify as a witness in their case. You will have an opportunity to question the municipality's witness.

Your questions should be limited to the facts of the case and not arguments about the case. Once the City has presented their side of the case, you will have the opportunity to call witnesses and present evidence if you choose. You may testify on your own behalf. The city attorney is entitled to question your witness, including yourself if you testify.

Closing Arguments

After both parties presented their case, each party is given the chance to make a closing argument. The City makes the first closing argument, and then you have an opportunity to make a closing argument. After the closing arguments, the Judge considers all the admissible evidence and applies that evidence to the municipal ordinance(s) that form the basis for the charge(s) to determine whether you are guilty or not guilty of the violation(s).