The Joplin MO Municipal Court is primarily responsible for handling cases that occur within the city limits. It is also responsible for enforcing the Joplin Municipal Code and numerous state laws.
During its early years, the courthouse faced controversy. There were a number of issues, but one in particular stood out.
Enforcement of the Joplin Municipal Code
The Joplin Municipal Code is a set of laws and regulations that governs the city. It is used to govern things such as traffic, vehicle violations, fire prevention and protection, courts and jails, and more.
The City of Joplin has a police department that is responsible for enforcing these codes and making sure citizens are safe in the city. The Police Department is made up of a Chief of Police and a Patrol Division, both of which are tasked with ensuring that all the city’s residents stay safe and sound.
In addition to the Patrol Division, the City of Joplin also has a Support Services Division that is tasked with maintaining order in the city and implementing public information programs. The Support Services Division is also responsible for the licensing and regulating of businesses in the City of Joplin.
The Joplin Police Department is a family of dedicated professionals that are devoted to preserving the safety of citizens in the city. The Joplin Police Department prides itself on being a community partner and not just a police officer.
Pretrial Conferences
Pretrial conferences are a great way to get to know the judge and see what kind of issues will be brought before them. They are also a good way to learn how to answer the court’s questions.
For instance, the judge may ask you about a legal point of law or ask you what kind of damages you are seeking. These questions can be important in getting a fair result in your case.
In this regard, it is helpful to consult a knowledgeable Joplin attorney before you step into the courtroom. They will make sure you have all of the necessary documents, and that you are familiar with the rules of the courtroom.
The Joplin MO Municipal Court holds several pretrial conferences each year. These are often used to expedite the process or to promote a settlement of the case.
Trials
In Joplin MO Municipal Court, every accused person is afforded the right to a trial. These trials are fact gathering hearings that take place before a judge following established legal procedures.
The judge will review the evidence, including witness testimony, compare it to applicable laws, and reach a conclusion on the case. The defendant is allowed to present his or her side of the story as well.
Officers Larery and Scott testified during the bench trial de novo, identifying Leeper as the driver of the pickup on the day in question. Counsel for Leeper objected to the identification, arguing that it did not meet the standard of reliability and was based on an unreliable source.
The trial court overruled the objection, finding Leeper guilty of each of the four charges and imposing fines and costs against him. This appeal followed. The Missouri Supreme Court affirmed the judgment.
Probation Office
The Probation Office is a division of the Joplin MO Municipal Court that handles probation cases. Its mission is to manage offender risk and protect the public’s safety through treatment and supervision strategies that balance the needs of community and offenders.
The Missouri Probation Office has a statewide network of field supervision centers and institutional parole offices. These offices monitor clients assigned to them by the courts, inmates released under probation from the Parole Board and offenders who enter Missouri through the Interstate Compact for the Supervision of Offenders.
The Probation Officers in the Joplin MO Municipal Court use their experience and training to assess, evaluate and supervise probationers under their care. Their goal is to reduce recidivism and improve the quality of life for offenders in their communities.
