This bill proposes comprehensive reforms to the municipal court system in North Dakota, particularly focusing on the jurisdiction and operational structure of these courts. It introduces a new subsection to section 27-05-06, allowing district courts to handle city ordinance enforcement cases in cities with populations under five thousand that do not have 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 of 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of indigent defendants, mandating that cities cover defense expenses in municipal court cases, and repeals outdated sections related to ordinance violations and municipal judges.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 bill outlines specific provisions for the administration of justice within municipal courts, including the handling of costs and fees, the prohibition of venue changes by municipal judges if a party objects, and the use of audio or audiovisual transmission for court proceedings. It establishes procedures for transferring municipal court cases to district courts, with a requirement for an agreement specifying the transfer date and mandates that all pending cases be delivered to the district court clerk prior to the transfer. The bill also empowers municipal judges to enforce their orders and outlines the responsibilities of the Supreme Court in adopting rules for municipal court procedures. Overall, these changes aim to enhance the efficiency, clarity, and fairness of municipal court operations 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