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What are my rights as a defendant in municipal court?

  1. You are PRESUMED TO BE INNOCENT until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
  2. You have the RIGHT TO BE INFORMED OF THE CHARGES against you.
  3. You have the RIGHT TO REMAIN SILENT concerning the charges against you, and anything you say may be held against you.
  4. You have the RIGHT TO RETAIN AN ATTORNEY.
  5. You have the RIGHT TO BE ASSIGNED AN ATTORNEY if the Judge determines that you cannot afford an attorney if the penalty upon conviction involves jail, a substantial fine, and/or license suspension.
  6. You have the RIGHT TO REQUEST A REASONABLE POSTPONEMENT so that you may have an opportunity to consult with an attorney and prepare a proper defense.
  7. You have the RIGHT TO TESTIFY OR NOT TO TESTIFY on your own behalf.
  8. You have the RIGHT TO CALL OR SUBPOENA WITNESSES to testify on your behalf.
  9. You have the RIGHT TO APPEAL within 20 days of a conviction.