Rule 37.04C Appendix C - Notice of Rights for Defendants Appearing in Municipal Divisions

If you're facing a case in municipal court, you have certain rights that the court must tell you about before your case moves forward.

You have the right to plead not guilty and ask for a trial. If you can't afford a lawyer and you're facing possible jail time, the court must appoint one for you free of charge. You also have the right to see the evidence against you, question witnesses, and present your own evidence and witnesses in your defense.

You don't have to say anything that could be used against you, and you can't be forced to testify. If you plead guilty or are found guilty, you have the right to appeal that decision to a higher court. The judge is required to make sure you understand these rights before accepting any plea or moving forward with your case.

If you don't understand something about your rights or your case, you can ask the judge to explain it further. Municipal court still follows rules meant to protect you, even though these cases usually involve smaller offenses like traffic tickets or city ordinance violations rather than major crimes.