Municipal Court

City of Sugar Hill Guidelines for In Court Judicial Proceedings during COVID-19

JUDGES

All Judges are certified by the State of Georgia and complete a training course through the Institute of Continuing Judicial Education every year. These Judges have also served as instructors for the training courses.

Margaret Washburn
Chief Judge
Margaret Gettle Washburn, Esq.
Judge Bio		 Charles Barrett
Judge
Charles Barrett, Esq.
Judge Bio

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What time is my hearing?
If you have questions about your case such as the time or date of your hearing, you may contact the Court Clerk’s office for assistance.

What if you have questions pertaining to your violation?
If you have questions pertaining to the charges, you may contact Code Enforcement for assistance. What if I need special assistance? If you have a disability, speak a language other than English, or require special accommodations in the courtroom, please call before your hearing to allow the Court time to properly assist you.

What should I do if I cannot appear at my hearing?
If you are not able to appear in Court, contact the court clerk at least 5 business days prior to your original assigned court date to request a continuance. If you do not appear at your hearing and fail to notify the Court, a warrant may be issued for your arrest.

In the Courtroom

When Appearing in Court

  • Be on time.
  • Do not bring gum, food, and drinks into the courtroom.
  • Show proper decorum when appearing before the Judge or addressing any remarks to the Court.
  • Speak clearly when you respond to the Judge’s questions
  • Always address the Judge as “Your Honor,” “Ma’am,” or “Sir.”
  • Do not interrupt the Judge or court proceedings.   This type of conduct may result in removal from the courtroom or contempt proceedings.
  • Enter and leave the courtroom quietly, so you do not disturb others.
  • Only approach the bench when instructed to do so.

Children in the Courtroom

If it is necessary to bring your child(ren) to Court, please be aware that if your child(ren) causes a disturbance or distraction, you and your child(ren) may be asked to leave the courtroom. If asked to leave the courtroom, your case will be moved to the end of that day’s calendar.

Cell Phones and Pagers

The use of cell phones is not permitted in the courtroom. Your cell phone or pager must be turned off before entering the courtroom so that you do not disrupt the Court. If you are required to carry a phone or pager for business purposes, it must be placed on silent mode.

Prohibited Items

Items that are NOT permitted in the courtroom:

  • Weapons of any kind
  • Electronic equipment such as video (unless approved by the Court)
  • Voice recorders or cameras (unless approved by the Court)

Dress Code

If you are appearing in Court, you should dress nicely and in a manner that shows respect for the Court.  Here are some items that shall not be worn:

  • Hats inside the courtroom (except those worn for religious purposes)
  • Sunglasses
  • T-shirts depicting violence, sexual acts, profanity, or illegal drugs
  • Clothing that does not properly cover your torso
  • Ripped or torn pants or baggy pants falling below the waist
  • Mini-skirts or shorts

If you are not dressed properly, you will be asked to leave the Court and return at a later date. This will delay your hearing and require you to appear in Court more than once.

Contact Information

Sugar Hill City Hall
5039 West Broad Street
Sugar Hill, Georgia 30518

Municipal Court Clerk:
Kandi Peterman
(770) 945-6716
Ext. 1204

Code Enforcement:
Donna McDaniel
(770) 945-6734 Ext. 1101

Caleb Harris
(770) 945-6734 Ext. 1109

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