The subject matter jurisdiction of a court is its ability to hear and decide the specific kinds of cases. Municipal courts have jurisdiction in misdemeanor criminal cases where the maximum sentence is one year in jail and a fine of not more than $2,500.00. Municipal courts also handle the initial stages of felony proceedings prior to trial.

In civil matters this jurisdiction is limited to cases where the monetary claim requested by either party is not more than $15,000.

Jury trials are held upon request in all criminal cases except for minor misdemeanors and in all civil cases.

Felony

More serious criminal matters are handled in the Felony Courtroom on the 7th floor. Individuals charged with felonies are arraigned at the Summit County Jail by television. Special equipment is set up so that the defendant can see and hear the judge in the courtroom by a monitor and the judge can see and hear the defendant.

Misdemeanor / Traffic Violations

Persons who receive a traffic ticket may plead guilty and pay the citation without a court appearance unless a court appearance is mandated by the officer on the ticket. Tickets may be paid by mail or in person at the Traffic Violations Bureau located in the Lobby (1st Floor) of the Harold K. Stubbs Justice Center. Persons who wish to plead not guilty to the charge or charges or plead guilty but explain the circumstances, should appear in court on the date of appearance indicated on the citation. If the citation is a minor misdemeanor, persons should call the Minor Misdemeanor Violations Bureau.

Small Claims

Civil claims for $3,000 or less may be filed in Small Claims Court. This court has very simple rules which allow parties to resolve disputes without hiring an attorney. However, attorneys are permitted to represent parties if desired. Small claim actions are filed on the eighth floor in the Civil / Small Claims Clerk's Office.

TOP OF PAGE