Procedures

The City of Kennett court docket is the schedule of the court. Defendants will be expected to adhere to the procedures and protocol of the court at all times, including proper attire.

An arraignment is your first appearance in Municipal Court.  When you are given a ticket, you are also given a court date and time to appear in court.  When you appear at your arraignment, your name will be called.  When you name is called approach the podium in front of the bench.  The Judge will read the charge that has been filed against you.  If you do not understand the charge, ask the Judge to explain further.  When the Judge asks how you plead, you must say either "Guilty" or "Not Guilty."

A Guilty Plea

IF you plead guilty, you are admitting to a violation of a City Ordinance.  You may tell the Judge any special cirmcumstances that you believe lessen the seriousness of the violation.  After listening to your explanation, the Judge will assess a penalty.  When you plead guilty you will be giving up the following rights:

1. To hire an attorney to represent you

2. To have a trial before the court of jury

3. To call witnesses to testify for you

4. To testify yourself

5. To cross-examine any witnesses that the City may call

6. The right to appeal the judgement and the penalty imposed

A Not Guilty Plea

When you please not guilty, the Judge will set a date for trial.

All mobile devices, including phones, must be turned off. Photography and audio recordings are prohibited. No food or drink will be allowed in the court room at any time.