Utah Justice Court Defense Lawyer

Utah Justice Court Criminal Defense Lawyer – Jake Gunter

Most Utah residents who encounter the criminal justice system will do so in a Utah Justice Court. The majority of criminal charges in Utah are filed in these courts, rather than the higher District Court or appellate courts.

What Is a Justice Court?

Each city in Utah has the option to establish a Justice Court. If a city opts not to, the County government or the District Court may step in to handle Justice Court cases. For instance, the American Fork Fourth District Court not only manages District Court felonies but also handles all of American Fork City’s Justice Court charges.

In Utah County, the Utah County Justice Court oversees cases from unincorporated areas and cities like Cedar Hills and Vineyard. Additionally, Utah County has several other Justice Courts, including:

• Provo City Justice Court
• Orem City Justice Court
• Lehi City Justice Court
• Payson City Justice Court
• Santaquin Justice Court
• Springville Justice Court
• Lindon Justice Court
• Pleasant Grove Justice Court

Justice Court Jurisdiction and Penalties

Utah Justice Courts handle Class B Misdemeanors, Class C Misdemeanors, and infractions. They also manage small claims civil cases involving disputes under $11,000.

Misdemeanor Classes and Penalties:

• Class B Misdemeanors: Up to six months in jail
• Class C Misdemeanors: Up to 90 days in jail
• Class A Misdemeanors: District Court only, up to one year in jail

Justice Courts do not handle felonies or prison sentences.

Common Justice Court Criminal Charges

Some frequent charges in Utah Justice Courts include:

• DUI (Class B), Impaired Driving, and Reckless Driving
• Speeding and Driving on a Suspended License
• Domestic Violence, Assault, and Battery
• Marijuana Possession and Drug Paraphernalia
• Minor in Possession of Alcohol
• Retail Theft and Criminal Trespass

Your Rights in Justice Courts

Defendants in a Utah Justice Court are entitled to the same constitutional rights as in District Court. These include:

• The right to a jury trial (3 jurors in Justice Court)
• The right to a public defender
• The right to call and cross-examine witnesses
• The right against self-incrimination

Justice Court Appeals

If convicted in a Justice Court, you have the right to appeal. Utah Justice Court appeals are unique because they are De Novo, meaning your case is retried entirely in the District Court. This process gives defendants a second chance for a favorable outcome.

Justice Court Judges in Utah

Interestingly, not all Justice Court judges in Utah are law-trained or licensed attorneys. In rural areas, non-attorney judges often preside over cases. However, larger cities like Salt Lake City and West Valley require Justice Court judges to be licensed attorneys.

Need Help? Contact Justice Court Defense Attorney Jake Gunter

If you face charges in a Utah Justice Court, criminal defense attorney Jake Gunter can help. He offers a free consultation to discuss your case and options. Call (801) 373-6345 today!

Learn More About Criminal Defense Lawyer Jake Gunter

For additional insights on Criminal Defense Law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:

• Meet Jake Gunter – Learn more about Jake Gunter’s background, experience, and dedication to helping clients throughout Utah.
• How to Choose a Utah Personal Injury Attorney – This video offers guidance on selecting the right personal injury attorney to ensure you receive effective representation.
• What Jake Gunter Does and Who He Represents – Discover the types of cases Jake Gunter handles and how he advocates for the rights of injured individuals statewide.

These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.