What happens at trial?
The City/Village is represented by the City/Village Attorney. The City/Village has the burden of proving the violation(s) by clear, satisfactory and convincing evidence.

The City will present their side of the case first. This usually involves calling witnesses and presenting other types of evidence, such as documents, photographs or maps. The City/Village may call you to testify as a witness in their case. You will have an opportunity to question the City's/Village’s witnesses.

Your questions should be limited to the facts of the case and not arguments about the case. Once the City/Village has presented their side of the case, you will have the opportunity to call witnesses and present evidence if you so choose. You may testify in your own behalf.

The City/Village Attorney is entitled to question your witnesses, including yourself if you testify. After the City/Village and you have presented your cases, each party is given the chance to make a closing argument. The City/Village makes the first closing argument, and then you have an opportunity to make a closing argument. The City/Village has another chance to argue their position after that because they have the burden of proof in this case.

After closing arguments, the Judge considers all the admissible evidence and applies that evidence to the City/Village ordinance(s) that form the basis for the charge(s) to determine whether you are guilty or not guilty of the violation(s).

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1. Do I need an attorney for the trial?
2. What happens at trial?
3. How do I prepare for trial?
4. What information can I get from the City/Village about my case?
5. Will I have to pay more than the amount on the citation if I do not appear for my trial, or if I lose at trial?
6. If I lose at trial, can I appeal?Will I have to pay more than the amount on the citation if I do not appear for my trial, or if I lose at trial?
7. If I lose at trial, can I appeal?
8. Can I settle my case before the trial?
9. Can I get a continuance of my trial date?