Criminal and DUI / OVI Defense in Utica Mayor’s Court
If you have been charged with criminal offense, such as a DUI / OVI, drug offense, or misdemeanor in Utica Mayor’s Court, contact Johnson Legal, LLC at (614) 987-0192 and speak with Attorney David Johnson regarding your case. Prior to appearing in court, review the information on this website, such as the information on this page, the charges and potential consequences, possible defenses and the court process.
Types of Cases Heard in Utica Mayor’s Court
Utica Mayor’s Court hears misdemeanor criminal cases that have allegedly occurred in Utica, Ohio. These are typically a violation of the village’s codified ordinances. While there are a wide variety of cases that could be heard, common types of cases that are heard include:
- DUI / OVI
- Misdemeanor drug crimes (e.g., marijuana possession)
- Certain theft offenses (e.g., shoplifting)
- Assault
Contact Information for Utica Mayor’s Court
Address: 39 Spring St., Utica, Ohio 43080
Phone: (740) 892-4585
Utica Mayor’s Court Personnel and Process
Mayor’s courts are presided over by the local Mayor unless a magistrate is appointed. A magistrate is basically the same as a judge. The magistrate makes rulings on legal issues and imposes sentences on offenders.
Court Process
For some cases, such as minor traffic tickets, you may simply pay your fine. However, simply paying the fine is an admission of guilt. If you don’t wish to admit guilt, hire an attorney and attend the arraignment (the first court appearance). Pleading not guilty may result in a more positive outcome for your case.
After attending the arraignment and pleading not guilty, a pretrial hearing will be scheduled. This hearing provides an opportunity for your attorney and the prosecutor to negotiate a plea agreement. If you decline to accept a plea agreement, your case will be scheduled for a bench trial. Mayor’s courts are not permitted to conduct jury trials. If you wish to have a jury trial, your case will need to be transferred to the Licking County Municipal Court.
If you are found guilty at trial, the magistrate will impose a sentence. Your attorney and the prosecutor will make statements to the judge prior to the imposition of any sentence.
Transferring Your Case to Licking County Municipal Court
Mayor’s courts are not able to hear certain types of cases, such as when the defendant wishes to have a jury trial, or you may prefer to have your case heard in Municipal Court. If you transfer your case from Utica Mayor’s Court, your case will be heard in Licking County Municipal Court. If the Utica Mayor’s Court finds you guilty, you may appeal to the Licking County Municipal Court.
Utica, Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with a criminal offense in the Utica Mayor’s Court, contact Johnson Legal, LLC and speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorney David Johnson of Johnson Legal, LLC will discuss your case and assist you in fighting the charges. Call (614) 987-0192 or send an email to schedule a consultation regarding your criminal offense case.
Helpful links for Utica, Ohio: Village of Utica
39 Spring Street
Utica, Ohio 43080
(740) 892-2211 (non-emergency)
911 (emergency)