The City Prosecutor will subpoena all witnesses associated with your case. You are responsible for requesting subpoenas for your own witness(es). On your trial night, the Prosecutor will call witnesses to testify about the facts of the case alleged in the offense. When each witness has finished answering the Prosecutor's question(s), you and or your attorney have the right to question any witnesses or present your own witnesses. You may testify on your own behalf but are not required to. If you do testify you will be questioned by the Prosecutor. After your case has been presented the Prosecutor will present rebuttal evidence, or evidence explaining or denying evidence you presented.
Each side may now provide a closing argument.
The Judge will then decide if you are Guilty or Not Guilty. If found guilty, the Judge will assess a punishment ranging from $0 to $500.00 fine plus court costs and/or up to 90 days in jail. The seriousness of your offense and any testimony, evidence or explanation offered by you will be considered by the Judge upon sentencing. If a fine and or court costs is part of your punishment, you will be required to pay the entire amount in full immediately. If the Judge finds you not guilty, you are free to go and there will be no punishment imposed.
Upon a finding of Guilty, you do have the right to file a Trial de Novo and have your case heard in a higher court before a different Judge.