Functions / Responsibilities:

The Municipal Court is the judicial branch of the City and has jurisdiction over misdemeanors, traffic offenses, City Code violations, and parking violations occurring within the City of Decatur's city limits or police jurisdiction. The Court strives to provide a neutral and courteous forum, due process, and fair treatment to all citizens.

Fines and Court Costs:

Court dates are listed on either the traffic/parking citation or appearance bond. Due to scheduling conflicts or other issues, the Court may reschedule your court appearance date. Should this occur, a written notice will be sent to the address listed on the citation or appearance bond. By law, the only exceptions to a mandatory court appearance are parking citations or traffic citations listed on the “Magistrate’s Schedule” which may be paid in advance of the date given. All other cases are required to appear in court. A person may enter a Plea of Guilty or Not Guilty. If pleading not guilty, a defendant will have the option to return to a Settlement Docket to speak with the City Prosecutor for settlement purposes or to request a trial. These cases are tried without a jury.

Jail Sentences:

Jail sentences are imposed at the Court's discretion, unless the law requires a mandatory jail sentence. Jail sentences are set in accordance with the laws of the State of Alabama and the code of the City of Decatur.

Complaint Filing Procedures:

Citizens that wish to file a criminal complaint (charge) against another citizen may do so by completing the PC Hearing Request Form and emailing it to the Court at:  court@decatur-al.gov or by visiting us in person at our Municipal Court Annex located at 300 Cain St. NE Decatur, AL 35601. In the event of an emergency, the Decatur Police Department may contact the Municipal Court office for immediate assistance in filing a complaint and obtaining a warrant.  Please visit our Probable Cause Hearings section for further information.

Municipal Court – Annex Address:

300 Cain Street NE
Decatur, AL 35601

Municipal Court – Annex Hours:

8:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M.
Closed from 11:30  – 12:30
Monday – Friday