I just learned my state is the the only other one that has mayor’s courts, or that mayor’s courts were special thing. I guess I just thought misdemeanors were h

I just learned my state is the the only other one that has mayor’s courts, or that mayor’s courts were special thing. I guess I just thought misdemeanors were handled this way everywhere. It also explains why the experience I had of a speeding ticket I got out of state was so jarring compared to local. Interesting reading: https://www.acluohio.org/en/news/what-mayors-court https://www.acluohio.org/en/news/what-mayors-court In particular: > Magistrates and mayors hear cases at a fast pace and they often rush people into pleading “no contest” or “guilty” and do not give due consideration to people’s explanation of their case when they plead “not guilty.” There is no one to advise or speak on behalf of the defendant unless the defendant hires their own lawyer. This helps mayor’s courts pressure defendants into pleading guilty or no contest, even if they are not guilty of the charges against them. Absolutely my (limited) experience. The verdict was basically handed out with the ticket so if you choose (or have to) go to court, the only thing you get is court fees for the privilege of being rushed through a proceeding that’s scheduled in bulk. Whereas a ticket I got in NY, there was much more ado and it was a slow, irritating process (even to just plead guilty and pay my fine).