Trials in municipal courts

You can request copies of police reports related to your trial and a list of witnesses. Learn about how to gather evidence.

The City will present their side of the case first. This usually involves calling witnesses and presenting other types of evidence. The City may call you to testify as a witness in their case. You will have an opportunity to question the City's witnesses. Limit your questions to the facts of the case, not arguments about the case. Once the City has presented their side of the case, you can call witnesses and present evidence if you want.

You may testify in your own behalf. After the City and you have presented your cases, both of you can make a closing argument. The City makes their closing argument first. The City has another chance to argue their position after closing arguments because they have the burden of proof.

After closing arguments, the judge considers all the evidence. The judge will consider City ordinances and determine whether you are guilty or not guilty of the violations. Though municipal court offenses are generally considered lower level than serious offenses, they are handled in much the same way as cases in other courts: defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, and are provided with the same protections as if they were charged with felony crimes.

Most municipal court cases can be quickly resolved out of court by paying a fine, but it is important to remember that when you do this, you are pleading guilty to whatever you have been charged with. You may be missing an opportunity to have the charges against you reduced or dismissed entirely, and costing yourself unnecessarily. The Increasing Popularity Of Online Selling Platforms Creates Opportunities For Disability Fraud Please note — the charges and accusations made against the defendant are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Click here! The public has access to helpful tools for self-representation , as directed under Texas Senate Bill , effective Sept. As a result of required changes to court costs, fees, and fines mandated during the Texas Legislative Session the following updated fine schedule PDF, KB applies. To view a list of violations and related fine information for Class C criminal offenses filed with the Fort Worth Municipal Court prior to Jan 1, , see below schedules:.

PDF, 1MB. William F. Rumuly has an extensive background in local government services with 26 years of experience working in three North Texas municipalities.

Martin Luther King Jr. Find details. Skip to main content. Municipal Court. Municipal Court Announcements click dropdown arrow The A. Thank you! Shoulders must be covered Jeans with holes or cut-outs including slashes Holes in clothing where skin is visible Bare midriff Shorts Head coverings other than for religious or medical purposes. Manage Parking Citations A parking citation may be contested or paid within 21 calendar days from the date of citation.

Virtual Court Appearance Attend virtual court and learn more about e-services, expectations, and requirements. Look up your case It is easy to look up your case and find the status for the next hearing.

Warrants A warrant for arrest is sent to the address shown on your ticket.