Municipal Court

The Newport Municipal Court handles cases involving violations of city ordinances, including traffic citations, parking violations, code enforcement matters, and other municipal offenses. The court operates independently to ensure fair and impartial resolution of cases within its jurisdiction.

Contact

Phone: 541-574-0616

Office:
Newport City Hall
169 SW Coast Highway
Newport, OR   97365		 Jeff_Pridgeon
Jeff Pridgeon
Municipal Court Judge

 

Important Disclaimer

This information is provided as a general guide to court procedures. It should not be considered legal advice. If you have questions about your rights, how to plead, or the consequences of a conviction, you are strongly encouraged to consult an attorney.

Municipal Court Information
Court Schedule


Arraignments and other court sessions are held every Wednesday at 9:00 am in the Council Chambers at Newport City Hall.

Location:
Newport City Hall
169 SW Coast Highway
Newport, OR 97365

Your Rights


Under Oregon law, all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. You have important rights, including:

  • The right to remain silent and not testify.
  • The right to a trial before a judge (a bench trial).
  • The right to hear all testimony and evidence presented against you.
  • The right to cross-examine witnesses.
  • The right to call witnesses and present evidence on your own behalf.
  • The right to be represented by an attorney you hire.

Because offenses in this court are punishable only by fines, you are not entitled to a court-appointed attorney.

Plea Options


At your first appearance, you will enter a plea. Your choices are:

  • Not Guilty: You deny the charge, and the city must prove the case.
  • Guilty: You admit you committed the violation.
  • No Contest: You do not admit guilt but do not contest the charge.

If you plead guilty or no contest, you waive your right to a trial and should be prepared to pay the fine or request a payment plan.

Appearance Requirements


You must appear on or before the date listed on your citation. You may appear:

  • In person at court.
  • By mail (with a written plea).
  • By delivering your plea in person to the court office.

If you do not appear, you may be found guilty by default and fined.

Trial Procedures


If you plead not guilty, your case will be set for trial. At trial:

  • The city presents its evidence first.
  • You can question witnesses.
  • You may testify or remain silent.
  • After all testimony, both sides may make closing statements.

The judge will decide your case based only on the testimony and evidence presented.

Driving Safety Courses and Deferred Disposition


For some minor traffic offenses, you may request to take a driving safety course or ask the judge for deferred disposition. The judge determines eligibility, and the request may be made prior to your scheduled appearance date.

Courtroom Etiquette and Rules


To maintain a respectful environment:

  • Speak clearly so all testimony can be heard.
  • Only one person may speak at a time.
  • Weapons, food, beverages, tobacco, and inappropriate attire are prohibited.
  • Cell phones and electronic devices must be silenced.
  • Video or audio recording is prohibited.
  • Disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
Accessibility


The City of Newport is committed to providing equal access under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The courtroom is equipped with assistive listening devices. If you require accommodations or have questions about accessibility, please contact the court clerk at 541-574-0616 in advance of your hearing.