This bill proposes comprehensive reforms to the municipal court system in North Dakota, particularly focusing on jurisdiction and operational procedures. It introduces a new subsection to section 27-05-06, allowing district courts to hear cases concerning city ordinances in cities with populations under five thousand that lack a municipal court. Additionally, a new chapter, 40-18.1, is established to define the creation, jurisdiction, and procedural requirements for municipal courts, including the election and qualifications of municipal judges and the provision of necessary facilities. The bill also amends laws regarding the representation of indigent defendants, mandating that cities cover defense expenses in municipal court cases, and repeals outdated sections related to ordinance violations and municipal judges.

Moreover, the legislation outlines specific provisions for the administration of justice within municipal courts, including restrictions on changing the venue of proceedings and the use of audio or audiovisual transmission for court sessions. It specifies that municipal courts cannot impose costs or fees against individuals except as outlined, and requires itemization of fines and fees in judgments. The bill also details the process for transferring cases to district courts, the responsibilities of the Supreme Court in establishing procedural rules, and the reimbursement of travel expenses for municipal judges. Overall, these changes aim to modernize the municipal court system, clarify judicial authority, and ensure fair treatment of defendants while streamlining the legal framework governing these courts.

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