3 Tips For Prevailing In Mayors Court
Are you thinking about taking your recent citation or ordinance violation to your local mayors court? Before doing so, you should be aware that the odds are stacked against you. While you may very well be innocent, you will face substantial challenges in your quest. Most cases in mayors court are presided by a magistrate who is appointed by the local mayor. While you are always presumed innocent until proven guilty, local magistrates will likely place a great deal of trust in the local police force, regulators, or whomever else gave you the citation. To win, you will have to be very prepared. Here are a few tips on how to do so:
Keep it simple. You may be tempted to unlock your hidden legal genius and bring forth a parade of witnesses. That's usually not necessary or appreciated in mayors court. The court will likely have a full docket, so the magistrate will appreciate efficiency. Get straight to the point. You will be given the chance to make an opening statement in your trial. Use that time to directly say why you are innocent and why the citation is incorrect.
After opening statements are made, you will have a chance to present evidence and call witnesses. Again, get straight to the point and present only those items that directly support your case. You don't need character witnesses or other extraneous information. If you drift from the main point, you may draw the magistrate's ire.
Consider a plea deal. Before your first appearance, consider scheduling time to speak with the prosecutor. He or she will likely be dealing with a full caseload, and chances are good that a mayors court case isn't a priority for them. They may view it as a nuisance. In your meeting, let them know that you plan to take the case to trial and also tell them what evidence you have to support your claims.
Then ask them what terms they could offer if you plead "no contest." They may be willing give you a minimal sentence or dismiss the entire thing. Again, they may not even want to deal with the case, so they might appreciate the offer.
Get an attorney. If the prosecutor isn't willing to make a deal, you may want to consider hiring a mayors court attorney. The attorney will know court procedure and can present your case in an efficient and effective way. He or she may also have a professional relationship with the prosecutor or the magistrate, which they could leverage to reopen negotiations on a plea deal. If you're committed to proving your innocence, an attorney may be a wise investment.
Contact attorneys in your area to see if they have experience with mayors court. Not all of them do. Find one who is right for you and then let them fight on your behalf in court.
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