Your Rights

Your Rights in Municipal Court

Under the American system of justice, you have the right to have your day in court. That is why the taxpayers of our city support your courts with their tax dollars. This will help you understand your rights in Municipal Court and the Court proceedings and to inform you of your rights and duties.

Municipal Court is the judicial branch of City Government. Traffic violations and violations of City Ordinances are tried in Municipal Court and upon conviction carry a maximum fine of $2,500 and a possible jail term.

Trials are conducted under the Code of Criminal Procedure, Code for Municipal Courts and the Kansas Rules of Evidence as adopted by the Kansas Legislature.

Right to an Attorney

In all cases in Municipal Court, you may have an attorney represent you. When you are charged with an offense that may result in jail time as part of your sentence, you will need to decide whether you want to continue with or without an attorney. If you desire an attorney and if the Court finds you do not have the means to hire one, the Court will consider appointing an attorney for you (you will have no choice in the selection of the attorney). If the Court appoints an attorney to represent you and if you are found guilty or plead guilty to the charge, the Court can assess your attorney fees as part of the court costs.