Minot’s Municipal Court will not be held this month. In March the court suspended appearances before Judge Ashley Beall on a temporary basis due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That suspension will continue. There will be no Municipal Court appearances in April.

“We’re getting everybody rescheduled and it takes some time,” said Judy Mathson, clerk of court. “Court is not going to resume until at least May 1.”

Although court appearances have been halted until further notice, the Municipal Court office in the City Auditorium is still staffed. However, due to coronavirus concerns, the office is closed to the public and taking phone calls only. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

A change has been made in how the court will accept payment for existing fines and fees. VISA or Mastercard payments will now be accepted over the phone. That payment method was not previously available at Municipal Court. Mathson said a drop box located at the Minot Police Department remains a payment option.

Municipal Court usually operates Monday-Thursday. The schedule for when the court resumes has not been finalized. Municipal Court typically handles cases involving animal ordinances, petty theft, driving under suspension and other traffic offenses in violation of city code.

– Kim Fundingsland