Trials

A trial is where you appear in person to contest the facts in the case. The officer who issued the citation will also be subpoenaed to appear, and the prosecutor may subpoena other witnesses to appear and testify.

Your Rights

You have the right to subpoena witnesses and to have a lawyer present, if you retain one. Should you choose to be represented by a lawyer, please notify the court to make the necessary arrangements. The city attorney will represent the city and serve as prosecutor at all trials.

If you have any photos, diagrams, reports, or any other exhibits which you plan to present at the time of the trial, bring them with you on your trial date.

Trial Rules

The arraignment rules and the following shall apply to all trials:

• The city, then you, will have an opportunity to present opening statements.
• All witnesses giving testimony at trial will be sworn in.
• The city will present its case. You may cross-examine the city's witnesses.
• You will have the opportunity to present your case after the city presents its case. The city may cross-examine your witnesses, including yourself if you decide to testify.
• Allowing further rebuttal evidence, on the part of the city or you, is within the discretion of the court.
• After both sides have rested their case, the city will have an opportunity to make a closing argument. Then you will have an opportunity to make a closing argument, and the city will have a short opportunity, since they have the burden of proof, to rebut new matter brought up in your argument. Further rebuttal arguments are within the discretion of the court.
• At the conclusion of closing arguments, the court will make a decision (guilty or not guilty). After this decision, if appropriate, the court will impose a sanction. Read more information about entering your plea.