Posted by Bradley Henderson
Last Updated
Utah’s Clearfield Justice Court plays an essential role in the local government judicial system, addressing infractions and class B and class C misdemeanor charges that occur within the boundaries of Clearfield, Utah. For more serious felonies and class A misdemeanors that take place within the city limits, these cases must be filed at the Second District Court for Davis County, located in Farmington.
Police agencies involved in cases may include the Clearfield Police Department, Davis County Sheriff, or Utah Highway Patrol..
Presiding Judge in Clearfield
Judge Brian Brower has been serving as the Clearfield City Justice Court judge since his appointment in August 2015. Judge Brower also presides in the justice courts for Sunset City and Morgan County.
Common Charges Filed:
- DUI and other alcohol-related offenses.
- Drug charges (marijuana and paraphernalia).
- Domestic violence (assault).
- Property crimes (theft, retail theft, damage to property).
Potential Penalties and Sentencing:
- Class B misdemeanor: up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000, plus surcharges
- Class C misdemeanor: up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $750, plus surcharges
- Restitution, if the court orders it
- Probation conditions, such as treatment or counseling, drug testing and community service
Even though the Clearfield Justice Court primarily deals with lower-level misdemeanors, the consequences of any conviction can be significant. Facing such charges here or elsewhere in Utah can be a significant personal challenge. But you do not need to face it alone.
How Cases Are Processed in the Clearfield Justice Court
- Arraignment: The charges are read and an initial plea is entered.
- Pretrial hearings: The case may be negotiated, reviewed or resolved.
- Trial: If the case isn’t resolved, it goes to trial. Misdemeanor defendants can ask for a jury trial; otherwise Judge Brower decides the case.
Many cases are resolved before trial, sometimes with a reduced charge or a plea in abeyance that can lead to dismissal.
Charges Against Hill AFB Service Members
Clearfield borders Hill Air Force Base, and many people cited here are service members. A civilian charge can still affect a military career, including command action, security clearances and future assignments. Attorney Bradley Henderson spent 12 years as an Air Force JAG and understands how civilian cases and military consequences connect. Learn more about military defense near Hill AFB.
Common Questions
Can I get a jury trial in the Clearfield Justice Court?
Yes. People charged with a class B or class C misdemeanor can ask for a jury trial.
Where do felony charges from Clearfield go?
Felony and class A misdemeanor charges from Clearfield are filed in Davis County’s Second District Court in Farmington, not in the justice court.
Can a Clearfield Justice Court decision be appealed?
Yes. Justice court cases can be appealed to the Second District Court for a new trial. The deadline is short, so talk with a lawyer right away.
Schedule and Contact Information
The Clearfield Justice Court holds regular public court sessions on Tuesdays at 9 a.m., Wednesdays at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and Thursdays at 9 a.m.
Address: 55 S. State Street, Clearfield, UT 84015
Phone: 801-525-2760
Email: jcclearfield@utcourts.gov
If you’ve been charged in the Clearfield Justice Court, call Stone River Law at 801-448-7451. Our Layton office is minutes from the Clearfield courthouse.