City Departments

Proceedings

The following Court proceedings are conducted by the Judge and his staff:

Arraignments

Arraignments, held five days per week, are proceedings in which a defendant is advised of their rights, questioned to ensure understanding of those rights and enters a plea for the charges. Out-of-custody arraignments are held on-site one day a week. These arraignments are for those posting bail or bond at the jail, those released on their own recognizance and those who've been cited rather than arrested. Jailed defendants are transferred to the Court and arraigned in front of the Municipal Judge.

Pre Trials

If a defendant pleads not guilty to the charges, they may have a meeting with the City Attorney. The City Attorney then decides if enough evidence exists to take the case to trial.

Trials

When a defendant pleads not guilty to the charges, they are scheduled for a non-jury Court trial. Public Defenders are appointed to provide legal representation for indigent defendants if necessary.

Sentencing

Upon being found guilty or entering a guilty plea, either at arraignment or trial, the defendant is required to comply with specific Court orders, including jail time, fines, diversion programs, community service or an alternative. Court personnel monitor defendants to ensure they're complying with their sentences and issue warrants for those who aren't.

Dress Code

Dress code for litigants, witnesses and spectators is strictly enforced at the Fallon Municipal Court. Tank and halter tops; clothes bearing profane or obscene language; soiled or unkempt clothing; and exercise apparel are forbidden. Hats must be removed. Anyone wearing inappropriate attire won't be allowed in the courtroom.

The recommended attire for men is long- or short-sleeved collared shirts; slacks or dressy denim trousers; and appropriate shoes or boots. For women, it's dresses, skirts or slacks; blouses; and appropriate footwear.

In addition, chewing gum, food and drinks are prohibited in the courtroom. Cell phones and pagers must be turned off while inside.