If the defendant does not appear, the judge will advise all witnesses when they may leave. Witnesses will be notified through the mail when they are to return. All municipal court proceedings are tape recorded. Therefore, it is necessary for everyone in the courtroom to remain quiet until it is their turn to speak. The length of time you will be in court depends on many things.
Some cases take longer than others.
Please be patient so that the court may give each case the time and attention it deserves. At the beginning of the court session, the judge will give an opening statement, explaining court procedures, defendants' rights, and penalties. A case may be postponed to permit the defendant to hire a lawyer. If the defendant pleads guilty, the judge will ask questions regarding the offense charged to make sure there is a basis for the guilty plea. If the defendant pleads not guilty and all involved parties are present and prepared, the case will proceed to trial.