Posted by Bradley Henderson
Last Updated
The North Salt Lake Justice Court handles infractions and class B and class C misdemeanors that occur within North Salt Lake, Utah. Despite the city’s name, North Salt Lake is in Davis County, not Salt Lake County. Felonies and class A misdemeanors from North Salt Lake are filed in Davis County’s Second District Court in Farmington.
Cases here usually start with a citation from the North Salt Lake Police Department or another agency patrolling the city, including along I-15 and U.S. 89. Although these are lower-level charges, a conviction can still lead to jail, fines and a lasting criminal record.
Presiding Judge
Judge David Miller presides over the North Salt Lake Justice Court. Judge Miller also presides in the Centerville Justice Court and has served as a justice court judge since 1996.
Common Charges in the North Salt Lake Justice Court
- DUI and other alcohol-related offenses
- Drug possession and paraphernalia
- Assault and domestic violence
- Retail theft and property crimes
- Traffic violations, including driving on a suspended license
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
A conviction can also bring collateral consequences, including limits on firearm ownership, driver license suspension and problems with professional licenses. Some misdemeanors, including DUI and domestic violence, carry higher penalties for a later offense.
How Cases Are Processed in the North Salt Lake 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 Miller decides the case.
Many cases are resolved before trial, sometimes with a reduced charge or a plea in abeyance that can lead to dismissal.
What to Do After a Citation
Read your citation for the court date or the deadline to contact the court. Missing it can lead to added fees or a warrant. Don’t assume a small charge will stay small. Talk with a lawyer before your first appearance so you understand your options.
Location and Contact Information
- Address: 10 E Center Street, North Salt Lake, UT 84054
- Phone: (801) 335-8640
- Office hours: Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Common Questions About the North Salt Lake Justice Court
Is North Salt Lake in Salt Lake County?
No. North Salt Lake is in Davis County. Misdemeanors go to the North Salt Lake Justice Court, and felonies go to the Second District Court in Farmington, not to Salt Lake County courts.
Can I get a jury trial in the North Salt Lake Justice Court?
Yes. People charged with a class B or class C misdemeanor can ask for a jury trial.
Can a North Salt Lake 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.
Talk With a Lawyer
If you’ve been charged in the North Salt Lake Justice Court, call Stone River Law at 801-448-7451. Our Layton office represents clients in justice courts throughout Davis County.