General Court Information 

Civil and Criminal Cases 

Generally the duties of the Judge include the overseeing and disposition of criminal and civil cases. Civil Cases Civil Cases include a wide variety of cases including personal injury (accident) cases, employment disputes, contract disputes, workers compensation appeals, and medical malpractice to name a few.

Each of the two Judge sets guidelines for the attorneys to follow so that information may be exchanged between the parties and motions may be filed if necessary. This helps the attorneys prepare for their respective cases as well as informs the opposing side the facts that support their position. This normally leads to a settlement and/or resolution to the case. If the parties cannot reach a resolution then the case may be scheduled for trial.

At a civil trial, a jury of eight peers or the judge hears the case. When the Judge hears the case it is referred to as a “Trial to the Bench” or “Bench Trial.” When a jury hears the case it is referred to as a “Jury Trial.”

Criminal cases make up a majority of the cases the court hears each day. Felony cases generally include any criminal offense where the possible penalty is six months or more in prison. Murder, Breaking and Entering, Grand Theft, Felonious Assault, Rape, Felony Domestic Violence, Felony OVI, Arson, Fraud, Robbery, Felony Drug Possession and Trafficking are just a few examples of such cases.
In a criminal case the prosecuting attorney and their office typically represent the people or a government agency. The criminal defendant is represented by their own attorney. If they cannot afford an attorney and qualify for a publicly appointed attorney, the Public Defender or another attorney selected by the Court may be appointed to represent them.

If a criminal case is not resolved, the case may be set for trial before a jury of twelve peers or may be tried to the judge directly. A trial to a jury is referred to as a “Jury Trial.” When the case is tried to the Judge it may be referred to as a “Trial to the Bench” or “Bench Trial.” In criminal cases if the defendant is found guilty, the Judge is responsible for sentencing the defendant.