This bill proposes comprehensive reforms to the jurisdiction and operational structure of municipal courts in North Dakota. It introduces a new subsection to section 27-05-06, empowering district courts to hear cases related to city ordinances in cities with populations under five thousand that lack a municipal court. Additionally, a new chapter, 40-18.1, is established to set forth the requirements for creating municipal courts, including the election of judges and the provision of necessary facilities. Notably, municipal courts will be designated as courts of record starting July 1, 2026. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities for compensating attorneys representing indigent defendants, mandating that cities cover these expenses, and streamlines the legal framework by repealing outdated sections related to ordinance violations and municipal judges.

Moreover, the bill outlines procedures for transferring municipal court cases to district courts, particularly for smaller cities that may choose to abolish their municipal court. It requires an agreement for the transfer, specifying a minimum effective date of 180 days, and mandates that all pending cases be delivered to the district court at least ten days prior to the transfer. The bill also delineates the responsibilities of the supreme court in establishing rules for municipal court procedures and the qualifications of judges and clerks. It emphasizes the need for compliance with these rules and allows the judicial conduct commission to intervene if judges fail to meet established standards. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency and clarity of the municipal court system in North Dakota.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 29-07-01.1
Adopted by the House Political Subdivisions Committee: 29-07-01.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 29-07-01.1
Adopted by the Senate Judiciary Committee: 29-07-01.1
Enrollment: 29-07-01.1
INTRODUCED: 29-07-01.1