Common Questions
What must I do when I come to the court as specified by my citation, assignment notice, letter, or bond recognizance form?
When appearing at the Clerk's office, how should I identify myself?
- DO NOT use a nickname or alias
- Use the same spelling as listed on your paperwork
- If the name or address is incorrect, ADVISE the court so it may be corrected
What must I bring to court?
- Copy of citation
- Any written communication from the Court
- Bond papers and receipt
- Documents of proof for compliance of judicial order or sentence
- Adequate funds to pay fines and costs
How long should I plan to be in court?
It will depend on the number of cases scheduled for that day. There is a sign-in sheet stationed outside the courtroom. Each Defendant is to sign-in and will be called before the Judge in the order the names appear on the sign-in sheet.
What are the different possible hearings?
- Arraignment – Reading of your rights, reading of the charges, entering a plea.
- Pretrial Hearing – A conference between parties (Prosecutor and Defendant or attorney for the Defendant) regarding the issues of the case.
- Trial – The examination of the evidence and the decisions of the issues of law by a judge or jury to determine guilt or innocence.
- Status Hearing – Any hearing after sentencing that would require a modification, review or change in the Court’s Order
Do I need to have an attorney represent me?
Can I bring in statements from witnesses to present to the Court?
How do I get a witness to come to court?
Can I ask the City for certain information that I will need for trial?
What if I cannot come to court on the day scheduled for trial?
Bond Schedule for Criminal Offenses
| Criminal Offense | Face Amount of Bond | Amount Paid Under 10% |
|---|---|---|
| First Degree Misdemeanor | $1,500.00 | $160.00 |
| Second Degree Misdemeanor | $1,000.00 | $110.00 |
| Third Degree Misdemeanor | $750.00 | $85.00 |
| Fourth Degree Misdemeanor | $500.00 | $60.00 |
| Minor Misdemeanor | $250.00 | $35.00 |
| All Other Misdemeanors – other than traffic | $750.00 | $85.00 |
NOTES:
Bond shall only be taken on the charge for which the Defendant is arrested.
On all felony charges the judge will set the bond.
Domestic Violence – If Defendant is arrested, the bond will be set by the Judge.