Juveniles can be charged with the same violations as adults, but can also be charged with truancy, curfew, tobacco and alcohol violations. Two Madison police officers serve as bailiffs to provide security, serve warrants and transport jail inmates. At pretrials, defendants meet with the assigned City Attorney and negotiate. Any agreements are submitted in writing and subject to the judge's approval. If no agreement is reached, a trial is scheduled.
All trials are without a jury, except when a proper request is made on drunk driving cases.
The rules of evidence apply to all trials. The City must prove guilt by clear, satisfactory and convincing evidence. The judge's rulings on trials and motions can be appealed to circuit court, upon proper filing of papers and fees. The judge can issue arrest warrants for nonpayment of fines or failure to appear in court. The judge can also issue inspection warrants for Building Code cases.