MAGISTRATE’S OFFICE
DESCRIPTION The Magistrate’s Office serves as an immediate buffer between law enforcement and citizens and can authorize or deny law enforcement the ability to detain individuals suspected of crimes. In addition, the Magistrate provides services in disputes involving citizens versus citizens. These functions are available 24 hours per day. The Magistrate conducts hearings as the first step in the legal process to determine whether there is probable cause to move forward in one of the following statutory procedures: to issue arrest or search warrants in criminal cases; to issue a temporary detention order in either civil, medical, or criminal cases; or to authorize pretrial seizures in civil matters. Where individuals have been arrested, Magistrates are called upon to conduct bail hearings to determine whether they should be committed to jail or released, and, if released, the conditions of release. Magistrates preside over hearings, maintain order and proper decorum, administer oaths, define issues, interpret and explain pertinent laws, take testimony, question parties, and issue or decline to issue the legal process requested. CITY COUNCIL TARGET AREA Civic Engagement & Responsive City Services
FY 23 OBJECTIVES Conduct neutral and impartial hearings for the public and law enforcement related to arrests, searches, emergency protective orders, bail, emergency custody orders, and temporary detention orders. Work effectively with the community including judges, clerks, law enforcement agencies, jails, and community services boards in addition to the citizens of the Fifth Judicial District who are served by the Magistrate’s Office. Engage in continuing legal education and training of all staff members, as well as local law enforcement agencies.
PERFORMANCE MEASURES Arrest Warrants and Summonses Issued Search Warrants Issued Emergency Custody Orders Issued Temporary Detention Orders Issued Emergency Protective Orders Issued Commitments, Recognizances, and Releases Issued
CY 19 Actual 6,641 761 480 544 1,392 8,065
CY 20 Actual 6,938 855 488 531 1,417 6,973
CY 21 Actual 6,409 763 498 454 1,560 6,755
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