COURT

The McComb Municipal Court is in session two nights a week. Monday 4: pm and Friday 10: am arraignments are held. Trials are held on Wednesday. Court starts at 4:00 p.m.

When a defendant is arrested, the first court appearance is called an arraignment. This is where the defendant pleas guilty or not guilty. If the defendant pleas guilty, the Judge will sentence him. If he pleas not guilty, the defendant is given a new court date for a trial with the plaintiff.

The trial will be held on a Wednesday at 4: pm. In most cases, the defendant represents himself, or hires an attorney. In some cases that involve jail time, the defendant is given a choice of hiring his own attorney, or waiving his right to an attorney. If, because of poverty, the defendant cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint one to represent him.

When the defendant appears in court, the City Prosecutor will call the plaintiff and the plaintiff's witnesses and ask questions pertaining to the incident. Then, when he is finished, the defendant has the opportunity to ask questions. The City Prosecutor and the plaintiff have to prove to the Judge, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant is guilty as charged. It is the Judge's decision on guilt or innocence. If the person is found not guilty, he is free to go. If he is found guilty, the Judge will sentence him, taking into consideration the defendants prior records. If the defendant is not satisfied with his trial, he can appeal the case to the County Court. If the defendant wishes to file an appeal, he must do so within 30 days from the date of conviction.

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