Magisterial District Court

The Magisterial District Courts are commonly referred to as the Minor Judiciary of Monroe County and are composed of ten Magisterial District Judges who are elected for a six (6) year term and are state employees. Each Magisterial District Judge maintains an office located geographically within his or her district.

District Judges have jurisdiction over summary offenses, traffic violations, and matters arising under the Landlord and Tenant Act, and civil claims not exceeding $12,000.00. They preside over preliminary arraignments, fix and accept bail, issue warrants, and hold preliminary hearings, as well as act as the committing judge in all criminal proceedings.

Additionally, each MDJ is responsible for working Emergency Duty 5-6 weeks per year, to ensure the timely availability of justice outside normal business hours.