Your Rights

As a defendant in Decatur Municipal Court of Record you have many rights:

• You are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
• You have the right to testify on your own behalf or refuse to do so without consequences.
• You have the right to retain an attorney, but you are not required to do so.
• You have the right to represent yourself as a pro se defendant.
• You have the right to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
• You have the right to receive a copy of the complaint before trial as well as other information the state has about your case (discovery).

During trial, you have:

• The right to inspect the complaint before trial and have it read to you at the time of trial.
• The right to have your case tried before a jury unless you waive that right.
• The right to hear all testimony introduced against you.
• The right to cross-examine or question any witness who testifies against you.
• The right to testify on your own behalf.
• The right not to testify if you desire. If you choose not to testify, your refusal to do so cannot be held against you in determining your innocence or guilt.
• The right to call witnesses to testify on your behalf at the trial and have the court issue a subpoena to any witnesses to ensure their appearance at the trial. The subpoena request must be submitted to the court in writing at least 10 days prior to the trial date to ensure service.
• The right to question jurors about their qualifications to hear your case during the Voir Dire (questioning of the panel).

If you need the services of an interpreter, please notify the municipal court staff at the time of your request for a court date.  If you have questions about your rights, you may hire an attorney.