GENERAL PURPOSE

The Presiding Judge shall have jurisdiction of the Municipal Court of the City of Independence. They shall preside over cases involving violations of the provisions of the ordinances of the City of Independence and have the power to assess punishment as provided, and such other jurisdiction as may be conferred by law or ordinance.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the appointment of the Mayor via the City Charter

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

Provides general supervision of Municipal Court department staff reporting to the positiPresideinon

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Issues warrants of arrest; search warrants or warrants for search and seizure as authorized by law for circuit judges or magistrates, directed to the Chief of Police or other members of the Police Department, upon application of the City Counselor or Assistant City Counselor.
• Summons and compels the attendance and recognizance or cash bond of witnesses and the production of books, papers, documents, other documentary evidence not privileged by law, and other effects as evidence.
• Administers oaths and affirmations.
• Summons and compels the attendance of jurors, who shall be selected in the same manner as jurors in magistrate court.
• Passes upon the competence, relevance, and the admissibility of evidence.
• Adjudges and requires the abatement of nuisances as defined by law or ordinance and declare the costs of such abatement to be alien upon the premises concerned and subject to sale as provided by law or ordinance.
• Renders final judgment on any forfeited bond or recognizance returnable to such court; and have such other powers and duties as may be provided by law or ordinance.
• Shall, upon convictions, fix the amount of fine or imprisonment, or both, and costs within the limits provided by the Charter or ordinance.
• Has power to suspend sentence and to place defendants on probation.
• Oversees legal matters and administrative proceedings.
• Conducts pre-trial hearings.
• Plans, allocates, and monitors time, people, equipment, and other resources for the department to ensure efficient organization and completion of work.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

AND

AND

AND

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of principles of criminal law, particularly working knowledge of ordinances, statutes, charter provisions, state law and court decisions relating to Municipal Court jurisdictions; judicial procedure and rules of evidence as well as the organization, duties, powers, limitations and authority of the Municipal Court.

Skill in working with municipal law, state law and contract law; operation of personal computer, software and other office equipment.

Ability to remain in good standing as duly licensed attorney authorized to practice law in the State of Missouri; analyze evidence, apply existing laws impartially and render prompt, equitable verdicts; possess a sense of fairness and exhibit respect towards all persons in court proceedings; communicate clearly and concisely both orally and written; communicate professionally and effectively with the City Manager and other City staff; & understand the ethical standards expected of a local government official.

Work Environment:

While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear; work is performed in a normal office or court environment with little or no exposure to outdoor temperatures

Background Check

Drug Testing

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER