The Role of Our Municipal Court 


This short article tells the reader a little bit about the current Marion County Municipal Court. Paid for by Citizens for Judge Ballinger, John Shank, Treasurer, 1110 Pineridge Dr., Marion, Ohio 43302 



Municipal Court plays a big part in the lives of the citizens of Marion County. Although this court has the largest caseload in the county, only one judge presently presides, Judge Teresa L. Ballinger. Considering that 16000 to 20000 cases are processed each year through this court, odds are that each Marion County resident will encounter some aspect of Municipal Court at least once in his or her lifetime. Judge Ballinger deals with traffic offenses from the minor offenses of speeding or muffler violations to driving while under the influence of alcohol and driving while under suspension. Municipal Court also addresses criminal misdemeanor offenses like domestic violence and criminal trespass. These offenses are labeled misdemeanors and are punishable by a minimal fine or up to a $1000 fine and 6 months in jail.
Civil cases are also a part of Judge Ballinger’s docket. Civil cases include evictions and law suits with damages up to $15,000.
When one is charged with a traffic offense, he or she has an option of paying a waiver or appearing before the court for a trial and disposition. Upon a criminal misdemeanor charge, defendants must appear directly or by written waiver and soon thereafter present his or her self before the court at a trial to determine guilt or innocence. A determination of not guilty immediately discharges the defendant. A determination of guilt results in a sentence to punish and, hopefully, rehabilitate the defendant.
Municipal Court addresses drunk driving offenses. When an individual is convicted of the operation of a vehicle while under the influence, he is sentenced to a jail term, a fine, court costs, a driver license suspension and possibly, immobilization of his vehicle. This punishes the drunk driver and takes him off the road for a period of time. In order for him to regain his driving privileges, he will need to show proof of insurance, pay his fines, court costs and reinstatement fees. Some cases involve the attendance to an intervention and or counseling program.

Paid for by Citizens for Judge Ballinger, John Shank, Treasurer, 1110 Pineridge Dr., Marion, Ohio 43302 

Posted: Sat - September 24, 2005 at 10:17 AM          

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