BETHEL MAYOR’S COURT

Bethel, home of Ulysses S. Grant, is one of many Ohio municipalities that has created a Mayor’s Court.  This Court hears traffic cases, OVI (or DUI), driving under suspension (DUS), and other misdemeanors.  Mayor’s Courts are presided over by a Magistrate.

The Bethel Police Department and the Clermont County Sheriff can cite first time offenders into the Bethel Mayor’s Court.  Because Mayor’s Courts are not courts of record, a Defendant has the automatic right to appeal the case, regardless of the result.  If a Defendant is not pleased with how their case turned out at the Mayor’s Court, the case can start over in the Clermont County Court.  As Marty Hubbell says, “It is like getting two bites at the apple, which can be a great advantage to the defense.”

When charged with an offense in Bethel Mayor’s Court, it is especially important to retain a local lawyer who has experience working in these unique types of Courts.  Because of the unofficial nature of Mayor’s Courts, the procedures and practical approaches to the case can vary greatly.